Sunday, August 23, 2020

China says PH ‘infringes’ on sovereignty for sending military aircraft near Spratly Islands

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 22, 2020): China says PH ‘infringes’ on sovereignty for sending military aircraft near Spratly Islands (By: Consuelo Marquez)



Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian takes a question at the daily media briefing in Beijing on April 8, 2020. (Photo by GREG BAKER / AFP)

MANILA, Philippines — Chinese Foreign Ministry has claimed that the Philippines supposedly violated China’s security and sovereignty after sending military aircraft close to Spratly Islands, which China calls Nansha Islands.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian issued this remark after a reporter asked his reaction on the Department of Foreign Affairs’ filing of diplomatic protest against China over Chinese Coast Guard’s “illegal confiscation” of Filipino fishermen’s fish aggregating devices in a Philippine-claimed shoal off Zambales or Bajo de Masinloc.

“The Philippines infringes on China’s sovereignty and security by sending military aircraft into air space adjacent to Nansha islands and reefs garrisoned by China. China urges the Philippine side to immediately stop illegal provocations,” Lijian said during his regular press briefing on Friday.

Lijian also called China’s actions in the Scarborough Shoal, Huangyan Dao for China, as “lawful practice.”

“It is beyond reproach for China Coast Guard to conduct law enforcement in Huangyan Dao waters as it is a lawful practice,” the spokesman said.

The Scarborough shoal which is locally known as Panatag Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc is among Philippine-claimed territories in the West Philippine Sea. It is also being claimed by Chinese, saying it is within the nine-dash line map.

The DFA, under Foreign Affairs Secretary Teddy Boy Locsin Jr., also objected to China’s continuing illicit issuances of radio challenges to Philippine aircraft conducting legitimate regular maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/190359/chinese-foreign-ministry-says-ph-infringes-chinas-security-for-sending-military-aircraft-close-to-spratly-islands

NOLCOM: CPP/NPA leaders arrested in Ilocos Sur

Posted to the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 19, 2020): CPP/NPA leaders arrested in Ilocos Sur

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https://www.facebook.com/crgnolcom/photos/a.1813617812020579/3386314538084224/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/NOLCOM/

SOLCOM: PTF-ELCAC OCCMIN with RCSP at the most isolated villages of Mindoro again

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 22, 2020): PTF-ELCAC OCCMIN with RCSP at the most isolated villages of Mindoro again

PTF-ELCAC OCCMIN WITH RCSP @ THE MOST ISOLATED VILLAGES OF MINDORO AGAIN

Once again utilising military choppers, the Retooled Community Support Program Team of Occidental Mindoro’s Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict set foot in one of the island’s most remote villages on Aug 16 2020.

The five-day immersion in Sitio Mansay of San Jose’s Barangay Monteclaro was in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for a whole of nation approach in addressing issues within the community and insulate the people from the NPA's terroristic actions.

Col Jose Augusto V Villareal, Commander of the 203rd Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Mindoro, said that “the absence of a 14-kilometre road going to the village should not and will never be an excuse for the government not to deliver basic services to our constituents.”

It usually takes the locals two days to reach the urban areas by foot.

Col Villareal added that “the use of military choppers is not only a testament to our firm resolve to end insurgency but, more importantly, it is a manifestation of our sincere intentions to help our countrymen since what used to be tools of war are now becoming symbols of peace and hope for our people” in the far-flung areas.

Some 800 Mangyans belonging to the Buhid Tribe were able to register in PhilHealth and Philippine Statistics Authority. These are on top of the free medical and dental services as well as Basic Farming Training by the Department of Agriculture which was followed by awarding of farm tools.

Relief goods from DSWD were also distributed following the discussion of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP for NPA terrorists who will return to the folds of law.

Col Villareal ended his statement by assuring the people of Mindoro that “this second RCSP deployment will definitely not be the last and that, under the leadership of the two Provincial Task Forces ELCAC, basic services will be delivered and the government’s presence will be felt even in the farthest portion of this island."

The RCSP Team of Occidental Mindoro’s PTF-ELCAC was first deployed in the same community last July 13.

Gov Eduardo Gadiano of Occidental Mindoro expressed his gratitude to the soldiers for "allowing us to use your military assets thereby helping us in fulfilling our mandate of delivering basic services and reaching out to the people whom we have sworn to serve."

“Our close collaboration, coordination and partnership will be the game-changer in our quest for lasting peace, prosperity and development which Filipinos living in this part of the country truly deserve”, ended Gov Gadiano.

Major General Arnulfo Marcelo B Burgos Jr, Commander of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, expressed his optimism that "through the active response of the different local government units toward PRRD's directive for a 'whole-of-nation nation approach', the inevitable demise of insurgency in Southern Tagalog will happen sooner than later.”

“Under the banner of good governance, your soldiers will be unrelenting in assisting our local government units and chief executives in addressing the root causes of insurgency so that never again will our people be deceived, never again will our people be agitated and never again will our people be used to promote terrorism”, ended Maj Gen Burgos.

Per the military’s records, 44 RCSP Teams have been deployed across Southern Tagalog since May 2019. Five more teams are scheduled to be deployed in Rizal and Batangas provinces within the month.


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SOLCOM: Tagalog’s “New Normal” Includes Former Rebels Tipping Off NPA’s Arms Cache

Posted to the Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2020): Southern Tagalog’s “New Normal” Includes Former Rebels Tipping Off NPA’s Arms Cache

Combined elements of military and police discovered three M16 rifles with magazines and ammunition after a former rebel led them to an NPA "arms cache" in Quezon Province on Friday August 21.

Lt Col Emmanuel Cabahug, Commanding Officer of 85th Infantry Battalion, identified the former rebel as alias Shasha who was a former full time member of the NPA’s Platoon Japson which operates in Bondoc Peninsula.

He added that “the rifles were buried in an NPA-designated cache at Mulanay town’s Brgy Burgos, a location where they hide firearms whenever they evade our forces and recover after government troops leave the area.”

Brigadier General Norwyn Romeo Tolentino, Commander of the 201st Infantry Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Southern Quezon, said that “in his own volition, the former rebel led our forces to that arms cache after he felt our sincerity and heartfelt desire in helping him reintegrate to mainstream society through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP which will allow him to live a peaceful life with his family.”

He described alias Shasha’s cooperation as a “manifestation of the sweeping demoralisation and disenchantment across the NPA terrorists’ ranks which is a result of their fast-eroding mass bass support as well as the prevailing paranoia due to the series of unprecedented debacles that they suffered in this part of the country.”

BGen Tolentino ended his statement with the assurance that “all NPA terrorists who will turn their backs from armed conflict will be treated by our soldiers humanely and with dignity similar to the way we treated alias Shasha which is contrary to what the underground movement has been indoctrinating to their members, however, those who will insist to stay on the path of terrorism must be ready to face the full force and might of the duly constituted government.”

Under E-CLIP, former rebels can avail up to Php 700,000 worth of grants which include immediate and livelihood assistance as well as firearms remuneration and housing benefits, among others.

Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, expressed his optimism that “digging arms caches will be the new normal in Southern Tagalog considering that our 604 surrenders over the past two years are now realising and deciding to answer our citizens’ call for national healing and unity so that our country can finally move forward as a nation.”

Per the military’s records, 117 firearms have been turned-over to the government by former rebels since the E-CLIP’s maiden implementation in 2016.

Maj Gen Burgos confirmed that “2ID is now in the final stages of validating the dismantling of the NPA unit which operates in the boundaries of Rizal, Laguna, Quezon and Bulacan after the enemies of the state suffered decisive blows from our focused military operations that are based on near real-time intelligence given by the people living in those communities.”

He ended his statement by calling on "the few remaining NPA terrorists to follow the path of their former comrades by choosing the path of peace over violence so that we may be able to finally live the peaceful and prosperous lives that every Filipino citizen truly deserves.”


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EASTMINCOM: High-ranking CPP/NPA leader arrested in Gingoog City. Misamis Oriental

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 21, 2020): High-ranking CPP/NPA leader arrested in Gingoog City. Misamis Oriental

ICYMI | Combined law enforcers of the Butuan City Police Office, Butuan City Mobile Force Company, Gingoog City Police Station, and 23rd Infantry "Masigasig" Battalion, Philippine Army successfully arrested a high ranking Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leader operating in Misamis Oriental on August 15, 2020, in his residence at Purok 6, Barangay Agay-ayan, Gingoog City.

The apprehended NPA indentified as Venancio Yagutyot Idpalina alias Bem-bem is high-value target with standing warrants of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention, frustrated murder, multiple attempted murder, and murder.

FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/2Ykw6eW

#AFPYouCanTrust




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EASTMINCOM: IED recovered in Davao de Oro

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 22, 2020): IED recovered in Davao de Oro

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) weighing five (5) kilos was recovered anew by the troops under the 28th Infantry (Kamagong) Battalion on August 19, 2020, after a concerened citizen pointed its location at Sitio Lusang, Brgy. Napnapan, Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

The civilian also reported that the unearthed mine was buried by an NPA-linked mass organization member.

Using of landmines is prohibited by the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which was signed by the Philippine Government and the National Democratic Front representing the NPA. However, the terrorist group evidently has no intention to abide by the this.

FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/31gWFUb

#AFPYouCanTrust



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EASTMINCOM: High-ranking NPA rebel surrenders in Davao de Oro

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 23, 2020): High-ranking NPA rebel surrenders in Davao de Oro

A high-ranking NPA who had served the terrorist group for five (5) years surrendered to the 25th Infantry Fireball Battalion on Saturday, August 22, 2020, in Monkayo, Davao de Oro.

Identified as alias Ading, the surrenderee revelead that he was deceived to join the NPA since he was 16 years old - an age prohibited by International Humanitarian Law (IHL) to be involved in armed conflict.

The 21-year old surrenderee also brought along one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 rifle and six (6) magazines with fifty-eight (58) ammunitions, which he yielded to the same unit.

FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/31ijJls

#AFPYouCanTrust

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CPP/Ang Bayan: Julie de Lima, interim NDFP peace panel chairperson

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): Julie de Lima, interim NDFP peace panel chairperson



The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) appointed Ju­lie­ta de Li­ma last August 19 as temporary chairperson of its peace panel following the recent death of former chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili.

NDFP chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison said that de Lima is the most senior among the members of the NDFP peace panel.

Sison said that there is no rush to appoint replacements for Agcaoili, as well as for Randall Echanis who was murdered last week. He added that “the NDFP has enough time to complete the working committees before peace negotiations will probably resume after Duterte is gone.”

De Lima formerly headed the the NDFP section of the Joint Secretariat and Joint Monitoring Committee under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/julie-de-lima-interim-ndfp-peace-panel-chairperson/

CPP/Ang Bayan: 12th IB troops are rabid dogs

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): 12th IB troops are rabid dogs



Like rabid dogs, troops of the 12th IB sowed terror in Janiuay, Iloilo from August 5 until the second week of the month.

New People’s Army (NPA)-Panay spokesperson Ju­rie Guer­re­ro disclosed that seven farmers were mauled by the soldiers in Barangay Ati­mo­nan, Ja­niuay. Two civilians were also detained and coerced to serve as guides in combat operations. Soldiers also confiscated the handmade guns used by farmers in self-defense. Soldiers threatened, interrogated and accused the residents as members of the NPA. Their farms were also destroyed.

To justify the atrocity, the 12th IB peddled a fake news about an encounter in the same area on August 8.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/12th-ib-troops-are-rabid-dogs/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Military evicts 2,000 Lu­mads, farmers

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): Military evicts 2,000 Lu­mads, farmers



The 88th and 8th IB forcibly evicted 2,000 Lu­mads and farmers from 15 communities in Ca­bang­la­san, Bu­kid­non last June 21. The butchers labelled the communities as a “no man’s land” after a dialogue between the datus, military and local government. (Read related article in Ang Ba­yan, June 21).

After two days, the military dropped 15 bombs in the area using helicopters. The area was also shelled 11 times and was strafed using .50 caliber machine guns. The residents’ cornfields were destroyed and their farm animals were killed. The soldiers butchered and ate the remaining farm animals.

Residents were then coerced to surrender as members of the people’s army. They were also forced to undergo a 9-day military training as paramilitaries who will be used as the military’s cannon fodder in combatting Red fighters.

Last July 31, soldiers also evicted residents from Sitios of Min­dao, Mia­ray and Ka­la­ka­pan. Nearby farmlands were also shelled fifteen times.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

CPP/Ang Bayan: 22 Party members complete BPC in Samar

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): 22 Party members complete BPC in Samar



Despite continuing miliary operations in the Samar Island, 22 members of local Party branches and section committee were able to complete the Basic Party Course (BPC) last June.

The front committee led preparations for the educational discussion. Considering heightened military operations in the area, organizers decided to conduct a staggered-type BPC. Two to three sessions were held weekly. There were two principal instructors and four teachers.

Sessions were held from 6 to 9 p.m. to ensure the availability and attendance of students. Ka Gary, one of the instructors and member of the front committee, said that the educational discussion was part of the consolidation activities in the section which aims to help students in leading their villages. The activity also helped resolve internal as well as interbarrio conflicts.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/22-party-members-complete-bpc-in-samar/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA ambush kills 10 soldiers in Negros

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): NPA ambush kills 10 soldiers in Negros



The New People’s Army (NPA)- Central Negros ambushed operating troops of the 62nd IB at Sitio Tabago, Barangay Sandayao, Guihulngan on August 14. The soldiers did not notice that Red fighters were aware of their presence. They were blasted upon entering the NPA camp. Ten soldiers were killed and 2 others were wounded.

Meanwhile, the NPA unit belied the claim of the military that an “encounter” took place at Sitio Maluy-a in the same barangay wherein a Red fighter was purportedly killed. The NPA said that the military actually killed farmer Requem Remasog. They also arrested three minors

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/npa-ambush-kills-10-soldiers-in-negros/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Police arrest Anakpawis paralegal

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): Police arrest Anakpawis paralegal

The police arrested Anak­pa­wis Partylist paralegal Pao­lo Co­lab­res for seeking the release of the remains of Ran­dall Echa­nis at a funeral parlor in Ba­ra­ngay Paang Bun­dok, La Lo­ma, Quezon City on August 11. Colabres was charged with obstructi­on of jus­tice and was detained for a week in Camp Ka­ri­ngal. A day prior to the arrest, the police forcibly took the remains of Echanis from his wake in Quezon Ave­nue.

To cover up the political motive in the killing, the police is making it appear that the crime is simply a case of robbery and homicide.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/police-arrest-anakpawis-paralegal/

CPP/Ang Bayan: State forces kill health worker in Bacolod

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): State forces kill health worker in Bacolod



State elements gunned down health worker Za­ra Alva­rez, 39, at Ero­reco Subdivision, Ba­ra­ngay Man­da­la­gan, Baco­lod City on August 17.

Alvarez was an active member of the Neg­ros Island Integ­ra­ted Health Prog­ram, an organization which provides free medical services and trainings in poor communities across the island. She was a well-known human rights advocate not only in Negros but also in the international community. She spent more than two decades of her life serving the peasants and farm workers in the island. She also became part of a progressive program of the Catholic church.

The killing was also condemned by the Office of the Uni­ted Na­ti­ons Special Rap­por­te­ur on the Si­tua­ti­on of Hu­man Rights Defen­ders, Amnesty Inter­na­tio­nal and Sa­mi­du­on.

Earlier, the regime failed in its attempt to declare Alva­rez along with other activists as terrorists. However, state forces continued to maliciously link her to the armed movement. From 2012 to 2014, she became a political detainee under the Aqui­no III regime after being slapped with trumped up charges of murder and robbery. Alvarez is the 13th human rights defender killed under the Du­ter­te regime.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

CPP/Ang Bayan: Ka Jethro, Party leader in Sout­hern Ta­ga­log

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): Ka Jethro, Party leader in Sout­hern Ta­ga­log



Ma­rio Ca­ra­ig (Ka Jethro), a Ba­ta­ngueño who became a leader of the armed movement in Sout­hern Tagalog, was summarily executed by the Armed Forces of the Phi­lip­pi­nes on August 8. He was asleep and unable to give battle when killed by 1st IB troopers at a house in Ba­ra­ngay San Anto­nio, Ka­la­ya­an, La­gu­na.

He was critically injured earlier on August 4 during an encounter between his unit and the military in the same area. Three Red fighters were also killed during the said encounter. Killing an hors de combat is against the rules of war.

Ka Jethro was an official of the Regional Party Committee in Southern Tagalog and its Executive Committee. He became a leader of the revolutionary movement in Batangas where he was organized during the struggle against the Mar­cos dictatorship. He spent nearly 27 out of his 36 years of service in building the revolutionary movement in the province. From being the secretary and political officer of a mass work unit in Batangas, he became the secretary of the Party committee in the province in 2017.

During his lifelong service, he led several successful mass struggles, including campaigns of the toiling masses for land and livelihood. These struggles were directed primarily against bourgeois com­pradors and landlords such as the Sy, Aya­la, Roxas, Ang and Cam­pos families. The campaigns include the successful raid against Henry Sy’s armed goons and properties in Na­sug­bu in January 2017.

Soldiers also harassed and hassled the relatives of Ka Jethro, as well as those of Red fighters Rey Maci­nas and Alex Perde­gue­ra who were also slain, in retrieving the cadavers. It took them several days before the bodies were turned over to them. Soldiers are yet to disclose where they buried Diosco­ro Cel­lo. These acts are blatant violations of war protocols.

The military is also yet to surface the family who took care of Ka Jethro. Witnesses say that they last saw Vir­gi­lio Asedillo, his daughter Chloe, 19, and the latter’s wife, Marknel, brought to a police precinct in Laguna.

In Ilocos Sur, Red fighter Pamela Oclia­so Pe­ral­ta (Ka May-may) was also summarily executed by the 7th ID in Ba­ra­ngay Sua­ga­yan, San­ta Lucia on August 8.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://cpp.ph/2020/08/21/ka-jethro-party-leader-in-southern-tagalog/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA attacks butcher battalions in Negros, Bukidnon, Masbate

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): NPA attacks butcher battalions in Negros, Bukidnon, Masbate



The New People’s Army (NPA) mounted successive military offensives in response to the continuing reign of fascist terror of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) battalions in Negros, Bukidnon and Masbate.

The NPA-Central Negros harassed the 62nd IB in Ba­ra­ngay Quin­tin Re­mo, Moi­ses Pa­dil­la, Negros Occiden­tal on August 14. Two soldiers were wounded. The following day, the NPA fired at a detachment of the CAFGU and 62nd IB in Ba­ra­ngay T-Hill, Gui­hul­ngan, Negros Oriental.

The NPA also conducted six harassment and snipe operations in Bukidnon from June 22 until the second week of July. Three soldiers of the 88th IB at 8th IB were killed in the said operations. The offensives were mounted in Ba­ra­ngay Ca­na­ngaan in Ca­bang­la­san; ba­ra­ngays Can-a­yan and Man-a­gok, Ma­lay­ba­lay City; and at Ki­po­lot, Barangay Palacapao, and Barangay San Roque, Quezon.

The NPA-Bu­kid­non also mounted two punitive operations against the plunderous operations of a quarrying company and a despotic landlord in Va­lencia City. The NPA paralyzed a loader, dumptruck, bree­der and backhoe in Ba­ra­ngay Sinab­wa­gan and a tractor and harvester in Ba­ra­ngay Si­na­ya­wan.

In Ca­piz, a soldier of the 12th IB was killed and two others were wounded in an ambush by the NPA-Panay in Ba­ra­ngay Roo­sevelt, Ta­paz on August 9.

In Masbate, around 50 soldiers aboard four military vehicles were blasted by the NPA along the boundary of Ba­ra­ngay Ma­lin­ta and Usab, Mas­ba­te City. Four soldiers were reportedly killed, including two officials.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

CPP/Ang Bayan: Ka Ran­dall Echa­nis, hero of the toiling masses

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): Ka Ran­dall Echa­nis, hero of the toiling masses



The revolutionary movement and people paid their highest honors to Na­tio­nal De­mocra­tic Front of the Phi­lip­pi­nes (NDFP) consultant and Anak­pa­wis Partylist chairperson Ran­dall Echa­nis (Ka Randy) last August 17. A caravan was held by his relatives, comrades and supporters from Quezon City to Marikina City where his remains were buried.

Ka Randy was brutally killed along with his neighbor last August 10 in Novaliches, Quezon City. Ki­lu­sang Mag­bu­bu­kid ng Pi­li­pi­nas chairperson Da­ni­lo Ra­mos described the killing of Echanis and other NDFP consultants, as the “worst blow against peace in the Philippines.”

Ka Randy played a key role in preparing the draft and final version of the Compre­hen­sive Agree­ment on Socio­eco­no­mic Reforms (CASER) between the NDFP and the Government of the Re­pub­lic of the Phi­lip­pi­nes. As member of the Recip­rocal Wor­king Com­mit­tee for Social and Eco­no­mic Reforms of the NDFP, he spearheaded the drafting of the provisions for the Agra­ri­an Reform and Ru­ral Deve­lop­ment section of CASER. “He used his vast knowledge to push for the free distribution of land to peasants as part of genuine land reform and national industrialization,” stated the NDFP.

The Pam­ban­sang Ka­ti­pu­nan ng mga Mag­bu­bu­kid described him as an “extraordinary revolutionary who, from his youth until his last breath, struggled for freedom and democracy.” In his youth, he was known as Ka Ma­kar in the countryside.

The Communist Party of the Philippines paid tribute to him for devoting his life to serving the peasant masses and advancing peace that based is based on justice. The Party described him as an “ageless revolutionary fighter.”

Ka Randy was described by his comrades as a cheerful, calm, and humble leader who is well-loved by farmers. He was fondly called “Ta­tang” by younger activists.

“Ka Randy did not die in vain. He died as a well-loved hero and martyr of the peasant and people’s movement. His lifelong struggle for land, justice, and peace is worth emulating,” said his wife Erlinda on the burial day.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

CPP/Ang Bayan: The people will not be cowed by state terrorism

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 21, 2020): The people will not be cowed by state terrorism



Randall Echanis, 72, veteran revolutionary and people’s servant, champion of the toiling masses and advocate of just peace, was mercilessly tortured and killed. Fascist executioners raided his home in Quezon City on the wee hours of August 10. He was bound, hit on the head and repeatedly stabbed.

What else other than the Duterte monster’s fascist animals could carry out such a dastardly crime? Who else would celebrate Echanis’ murder other the exploiters and oppressors which he condemned and fought against alongside with the toiling masses his entire life? What other aim does this crime hope to achieve other than drive a stake of terror on the people’s hearts? What else will it arouse but rage, indignation and greater courage and people’s resistance?

The brutal murder of Echanis is part of the intensifying and ruthless state terrorist attacks under the Duterte regime. It targets known personalities and patriotic and democratic forces active in the open mass movement and who are the most vigorous in exposing and fighting the anti-people Duterte regime and advancing the democratic mass struggles.

One week after Echanis’ murder, the fascist animals were again unleashed. Zara Alvarez, 39, human rights defender and community health worker, was gunned down in Bacolod City. Like Echanis, Alvarez is among 600 activists which the Department of Justice accused of being “terrorists” in the proscription case against the CPP and NPA. In May, Carlito Badion, 52, was also abducted, tortured and killed. A few days earlier, Jory Porquia, 58, a prominent activist and city coordinator of Bayan Muna, was killed in Iloilo City.

The relentless fascist rampage against known activists in the cities are carried out by the state armed agents under the orders of Duterte and his National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Even without legal bases, the evil fascists have long implicated activists with the armed revolutionary movement. They target even artists, the critical mass media, church workers and ordinary people critical of Duterte. The targets of these killings, arrests, abductions and incarceration have long been red-tagged by the AFP and PNP in their tarpaulin and endless media prattle, to justify the filing of trumped-up charges or outright murder of mass leaders and activists.

If the fascist rampage in the cities are relentless, AFP repression is even more virulent and savage in the countryside, away from media attention and where information flows ever so slow. Under Duterte’s rule, not less than 264 peasants have been killed by the regime’s soldiers, police, paramilitary and armed agents.

They respect no rights or guideline other than martial law. Wherever peasants stand up and defend their rights or fight for land, the fascists are there to silence and crush them. The masses face state terrorism every single day.

Whoever learns to speak for their interests are accused of supporting the armed movement. They impose military restrictions on communities including curfews, checkpoints, food blockades, prohibiting work in the fields and other measures purportedly against the NPA, but in fact, are onerous restrictions against the people. Civilian residents are forcibly used by the AFP in their bloody and oppressive war. They are paraded as “surrenderees,” conscripted into the CAFGU, made to guide military operations, hauled to pro-military rallies and others.

In waging war, the AFP abides by no rules. Incited by Duterte, soldiers have brutally killed revolutionary leaders and forces even if they are no longer in a position to fight. Southern Tagalog Party leader Ka Mario Caraig was gunned down last August 8 while asleep. He was then convalescing from battle wounds. Last March, Ka Julius Giron, 71, a Party leader and peace consultant, was mercilessly killed in their residence in Baguio City, together with his doctor and buddy.

Contrary to international humanitarian law, the AFP has been dropping 500-pound bombs and indiscriminately firing artillery in suspected NPA camps endangering the lives and livelihood of the peasant masses and minority people in nearby communities.

All these—from political killings in the cities to militarization in the countryside—form part of the image of state terrorism under Duterte. In the face of the pandemic, Duterte prioritizes state terrorism. He uses the worst forms of fascism to terrorize the people, silence their protests and suppress their struggles.

Intoxicated with power, Duterte aspires for more in order to continue aggrandizing wealth from pocketing public funds, cuts in government contracts, bribe money from drug syndicates and others. He and his minions gravely fear of losing power and having to face innumerable crimes and rights violations, have their hidden wealth exposed and be made culpable for all their transgressions against the people. Duterte persists in his power perpetuation schemes by charter change, rigging the 2022 elections in favor of those who he will choose, or outright imposition of dictatorial rule.

Worsening state terrorism is a manifestation of the US-Duterte regime’s desperation to cling to power in the face of rising and broadening calls for his resignation or ouster.

The people’s determination to fight intensifies as they face the regime’s bungling of the pandemic response, worsening corruption and stealing public funds, fleecing and oppressing the people.

However, instead of being crushed, the people’s hearts are filled with rage, and with the determination and courage to fight. Instead of being silenced, the people see ever more clearly the need to speak out, protest and rise. Instead of turning their backs, the people are ever ready to make the necessary sacrifice in order to fight and defeat fascist terrorism and attain their aspiration for freedom.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

AFP-CRS: School and Road for Peace and Development constructed for IP community

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 21 , 2020): School and Road for Peace and Development constructed for IP community

READ MORE: https://www.kalinawnews.com/school-and-road-for-peace-and-…/

#AFPyoucanTRUST



[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

AFP-CRS: VINLUAN assumes as new WESTMINCOM chief

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 21 , 2020): MGEN VINLUAN assumes as new WESTMINCOM chief

ZAMBOANGA CITY--The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will install Tuesday, August 18, Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan as the new commander of Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, AFP chief-of-staff, will preside the change of command ceremony in Camp Don Basilio Navarro, which will see Vinluan's assumption as the 12th commander of Westmincom, replacing Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who headed Westmincom since June 28, 2019, and became Philippine Army chief in July.

READ MORE: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112513

#AFPyoucanTRUST

Image may contain: 1 person, text that says '20 AUGUST 2020 PREHDNDERED W MGEN VINLUAN ASSUMES AS NEW WESTMINCOM CHIEF "We shall harmonize efforts to ensure interoperability of our security forces with the agencies tasked with law enforcement to stem the flow of criminality and secure our maritime borders from threats that impede the growth of the economy the region. urge you to strengthen your resolve to pursue the mission given to us. Ours is a privileged opportunity to serve and be part of the noble profession of arms." MGEN CORLETO S VINLUAN JR PA Commander, Western Mindanao Command, AFP CRSAFP #AFPyoucanTRUST'


[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA true colors as terrorists and human right violators

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 21 , 2020): CPP-NPA true colors as terrorists and human right violators

BUTUAN CITY – The communist New People’s Army (NPA) was responsible for the abduction and killing of a Surigao del Norte policeman, whose body was found Tuesday (Aug. 18) in Barangay Matin-ao, Mainit town.

In a statement Wednesday, the Army's 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde) said that Police Staff Sergeant Restie Dandan was killed by communist guerillas under the NPA's Guerrilla Front 16 led by a certain Rolando Leyson Jr. after 18 days in captivity.

READ MORE: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112749

#AFPyoucanTRUST

Image may contain: one or more people


[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

AFP-CRS: Surigao Sur IP leaders decry 'biased' TV documentary

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 22 , 2020): Surigao Sur IP leaders decry 'biased' TV documentary

BUTUAN CITY – Surigao del Sur's Indigenous People's (IP) leaders decried on Tuesday a television documentary aired over GMA-7 last August 14, saying it allegedly presented a one-sided story that disrespected the rights of the Manobo tribe for free and prior informed consent (FPIC).

In a statement, Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, condemned TV personality Atom Araullo for his alleged “blatant propagandistic documentary” entitled “Ang Iskul kong Bakwit”.

READ MORE: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112630

#AFPyoucanTRUST

Image may contain: 1 person, text that says 'AUGUST 2020 2018 ... -Ϲς AN DOK ANG JUMAR BUCALES Sur DATU HAWUDON Representative Lianga, Surigao del Indigenous People Mandatory on GMA-7 IWITNESS"Ang Iskul kong Bakwit" documentary by Alfonso Tomas 'Atom' Araullo "We consider the documentary presented by Atom Araullo as prejudiced and misleading as it failed to raise the side of the legitimate IP leaders. The documentary did not portray the atrocities of the NPA rebels, including the killings that force the IPs to leave their communities. RTF ELCAC XIII ELCAC #AFPyoucanTRUST CRSAFP'


[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

AFP-CRS: More NPA surrender in Zamboanga Peninsula

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Aug 22 , 2020): More NPA surrender in Zamboanga Peninsula

IPIL, ZSP – Five Communist NPA Terrorists surrendered to the government forces in Zamboanga Peninsula on August 18, 2020.

The operating Battalions of 102nd Infantry Brigade, 97th, 44th, 42nd and 53rd Infantry Battalions, facilitated the surrender of alias Pawpaw, Guerilla Front (GF) – Feliciano A; alias Arkins, Regional Urban Committee; alias Eric, Yunit Militia; and, alias Jaymon and Jongjong , both under the Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU), all of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

READ MORE: https://www.kalinawnews.com/more-npas-surrender-in-zamboan…/

#AFPyoucanTRUST

Image may contain: 1 person, text that says 'AUGUST 2020 18 MORE NPA SURRENDER IN ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA "The doors of the government will remain open for other members of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC) who still wish to be with their families and be part again of the peace-loving and productive members of their respective communities." MGEN GENEROSO M PONIO PA Commander, 1st Infantry Division, PA ELCAC IX NTF ELCAC #AFPyoucanTRUST CRSAFP'


[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

Kalinaw News: War Zone in Sulu turns into Sports Complex

From Kalinaw News (Aug 23, 2020): War Zone in Sulu turns into Sports Complex
Jolo, Sulu – Joint Task Force Sulu’s collaborative efforts with the local government made a rehabilitation of a former war zone, now transformed into a recreational sports complex in Brgy. Tugas, Patikul, Sulu on August 22, 2020.

Patikul Mayor Kabir Hayudini and Brigadier General William N. Gonzales PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu and 11th Infantry Division, conducted a cutting of ribbon ceremony facilitated by Lieutenant Colonel Ruben B. Guinolbay, Commanding Officer of 45th Infantry (Gallant) Battalion that symbolizes a new life of productivity and good health for the residents of Brgy. Tugas.
Sulu is viewed as infamous internationally because of the bloody war against terrorism of the Abu Sayyaf Group. The said war already claimed countless lives of soldiers, terrorist combatants and innocent civilians which also have displaced the locals in the barangays.

However, with the combined efforts of 45th Infantry Battalion; 1st Brigade Combat Team; 1101st Infantry Brigade; 1102nd Infantry Brigade under the supervision of the 11th Infantry (ALAKDAN) Division, with the support of the Local Government Office of Sulu, the ways of Barangay Tugas under the Municipality of Patikul have transformed a restoration area that will help mold the future generations of the locality.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General William N Gonzales, as the newly installed Commander, made his commitment to support the plans and programs of the local governments for the betterment of Sulu Province, “With the partnership of the Local Government Units of Patikul, Sulu and the Philippine Army as well as the Joint Task Force Sulu, I assure you my full support making Barangay Tugas and all other Barangays in my area of responsibility more peaceful and developed by ending the local armed conflict.” he said.









[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/war-zone-in-sulu-turns-into-sports-complex/

Kalinaw News: 21 Raptor Troopers completed Organic Agriculture Production NC II from TESDA

From Kalinaw News (Aug 23, 2020): 21 Raptor Troopers completed Organic Agriculture Production NC II from TESDA
Brgy Mahayag, Bunawan District, Davao City-21 troopers from 1003Bde completed the ten(10) days TESDA training on Organic Agriculture Production NC II on August 22,2020 conducted at Wangan National Agricultural School(WNAS) in Calinan, Davao City. Out of the 25 participants from the 10ID, 21 of whom are from 1003Bde and four(4) from 1002Bde. They are composed of two(2) officers, 14 regular Enlisted Personnel, six(6) IP soldiers and three(3) CAFGUs.

Attendees during Closing Ceremony were Engr LORENZO G MACAPILI, Regional Director TESDA XI; BGEN NOLASCO A MEMPIN PA, Commander, 1003rd Brigade; LTC JUVENAL MARK TAYAMEN, Battalion Commander, 3IB, 7ID, PA; Mr ADONIS CULAS, Provincial Director of TESDA Davao City/Sur; and Mr FELIPE C HIQUIAL JR, Vocational School Administrator II of WNAS.
The participants have successfully completed all the six (6) Levels of competencies under the course namely: The Raise Organic Chicken; Raise Organic Small Ruminants; Raise Organic Hogs; Produce Organic Vegetables; Produce Organic Concoctions and Extracts; and Manufacture Organic Fertilizer.

Engr. Macapili said the training program is in line with the Memorandum of Agreement inked by TESDA with the Department of National Defense (DND).

Under the MOA, TESDA will provide free skills training, assessment, and issue certifications to qualified DND personnel who have undergone skills training and Trainers Methodology Course.

On the other hand, the trained personnel will assist TESDA in training and empowering former rebels, Indigenous People (IPs), and other members of remote communities. Macapili emphasized that the training of trainers is also a strategy to equip members of the Philippine Army so that they could help TESDA and other national line agencies in the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 which institutionalizes the “whole-of-nation” approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace.

BGEN MEMPIN said that the skills that our soldiers have acquired can be of great help in the development of the far flung areas especially the IP communities by teaching them organic ways of agricultural production in order to address the common issues in farming – the high price of farm inputs and low price of farm produce.

Organic Agricultural Production is commonly practiced by using indigenous or organic materials that is readily available in the area that can minimize the cost of farm production. It can be applied as Basal and Foliar fertilizers, pest control to plants and feeds and vitamins to animals instead of synthetic fertilizers and commercial feeds.

Consumption of organically produced vegetables, livestock and poultry is clinically recommended as it reduces the intake of toxins that induces risk of diseases that are brought by synthetic fertilizers and commercial feeds in humans.









[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/21-raptor-troopers-completed-organic-agriculture-production-nc-ii-from-tesda/

After Alvarez murder, another Negros activist fears he is being watched

From Rappler (Aug 23, 2020): After Alvarez murder, another Negros activist fears he is being watched (By LORRAINE ECARMA)



Ereneo Longino of Bayan Negros says his daughter was approached by an unknown man looking for him on August 22

Bayan Negros deputy secretary general Ereneo Longino reported incidents of surveillance by an unidentified person aboard a motorcycle, days after the murder of fellow Negros activist Zara Alvarez.

Bayan Negros, a human rights mass organization, posted on social media that Longino’s daughter was approached by an unknown man in their home in Negros Occidental on Saturday, August 22. The man was reportedly looking for Longino who was not at home at the time.

This incident happened just days after Negros human rights worker and activist Zara Alvarez was murdered on August 17 in Bacolod City.

(MUST READ: ‘Attacker of human rights activist was lone gunman’)



In a phone interview with Rappler on Sunday, August 23, Longino said the incident happened early in the morning. He added that the man did not say much after his daughter refused to divulge Longino’s location, nor did the man give reasons as to why he was looking for Longino.

Longino added that one of his children reportedly observed a man aboard a motorcycle surveying their area for two days in a row prior to the incident. Before this, Longino said he had not received any threats.

He noted, however, that his name was on the search warrant for the multiple raids on progressive organization’s offices in October of 2019. He said that he was not around any of the offices during the raids.

Longino is now staying away from home for his safety and the safety of his family.

He added that Negros activists have become accustomed to the red-tagging and intimidation that come after the murder of leaders of mass organizations in their area.

"Bilang [mga lider] ng Bayan Negros, hindi na kami nabigla. Kasi, noon pa man, kagawian na kung may nagyayari na mga patayan dito ng mga lider ng mga mass organizations, ang sunod ay ang paglabas ng mga red-tagging," he said.  (As leaders of Bayan Negros, we aren’t surprised. Even before, it has become routine after the murder of leaders of mass organizations that red-tagging would follow.)

"Patuloy ang pakikibaka ng uring manggagawa, uring magsasaka ng sambayanan. Hindi kami natatakot. Walang lugar para umatras, para matakot," he added. (The struggle continues for the nation's laborers and for workers. We are not afraid. There is no room to step back, for fear.)

https://rappler.com/nation/after-alvarez-murder-another-negros-activist-fears-surveillance

Army fully supports probe on slay of Negrense activist: 3ID chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2020): Army fully supports probe on slay of Negrense activist: 3ID chief (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



CRIME SCENE. Scene of the crime operatives of Bacolod City Police Office process the area where human rights activist Zara Alvarez was gunned down in Eroreco Subdivision, Barangay Mandalagan on the night of Aug. 17, 2020. The Police Station 3 is still conducting an investigation, which has drawn full support from the Philippine Army. (File photo courtesy of Bacolod City Police Office)

The top official of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) has expressed full support to the investigation on the slay of Negrense human rights activist Zara Alvarez.

“The 3ID strongly condemns the killing of Zara Alvarez in Bacolod City on August 17. We fully support the ongoing investigation,”
said 3ID commander, Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, in a statement on Saturday.

Vinoya, who heads the Philippine Army forces in Western and Central Visayas, said they would also welcome any information that would enlighten them about the incident.


“Like other quarters, we seek the truth and we intend to utilize our full capabilities so that justice will be served swiftly,” he said.

Alvarez, 39, was gunned down by an unidentified assailant in Eroreco Subdivision, Barangay Mandalagan on that fateful Monday night.

Earlier, Malacañang condemned the slay of Alvarez and fellow activist Randall Echanis, which happened within just a week, but said that blaming state forces for their deaths is “unfounded”.

“We denounce any form of violence perpetuated against citizens, including activists. We are a nation of laws; and violence has no place in any civilized society,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

He added that law enforcement authorities are investigating the killings.

As of Sunday, the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) Station 3 has yet to reach a breakthrough in the investigation, which pursued angles related to a possible grudge against Alvarez as well as her link to leftist organizations.

“There is no significant update yet,” Col. Ariel Pico, public information officer of BCPO, told the Philippine News Agency.

Echanis, a peasant leader and peace consultant of the National Democratic Front, was found dead in his rented house in Novaliches, Quezon City on August 10. He sustained multiple stab wounds and two gunshots on his head.

Alvarez, a former campaign and education director and paralegal of Karapatan in Negros Island, was shot several times from behind by an assailant on a motorcycle. She died of six gunshot wounds.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113120

Soldier dies, IP families displaced in Zambales clash with Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2020): Soldier dies, IP families displaced in Zambales clash with Reds (By Mahatma Datu)



DISPLACED IPs. Some 659 individuals or 192 families from an Aeta community in San Marcelino, Zambales are temporarily evacuated to a covered court following a clash between government troops and communist rebels. The clash started at 5 a.m. Friday (Aug. 21, 2020) and ended on Saturday (Aug. 22, 2020). (Photo by San Marcelino-PIO)

SAN MARCELINO, Zambales – A soldier died while at least 659 individuals or 192 families from an Aeta community here were displaced following a clash between government troops and communist rebels in this province.
Authorities said the clash began at 5 a.m. Friday and ended at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

Reports reaching the office of Mayor Elvis Soria said the gunbattle between the Army troops and alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) broke out in Sitio Lumibao in Barangay Buhawen, a few kilometers from where the Aeta families reside in this town.


Slain was Sergeant Rudi Dilao of the Army’s 73rd Division Reconnaissance Company, 7th Infantry Division (7ID).

The 7ID hailed the heroism of Dilao who, it said, died protecting the people of Zambales against the terroristic activities of the NPA.

“He showed his immeasurable love of country as he offered his life to keep the communities of Zambales safe from the infiltration of the enemy. His ultimate sacrifice will remain forever in our hearts as we continue our fight in winning the peace in the countryside. We are urging the public to join us in offering a prayer for the eternal peace of the soul of our brother in profession,” the 7ID said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Soria said the displaced indigenous peoples (IPs) were temporarily evacuated at a covered court in Barangay Aglao where they were given food and medical services.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113109

Gov’t revs up anti-insurgency bid in Mindoro’s remote villages

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2020): Gov’t revs up anti-insurgency bid in Mindoro’s remote villages



Once again utilizing military choppers, the Retooled Community Support Program Team of Occidental Mindoro’s Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict set foot in one of the island’s remotest villages on Aug 16.

The two-day immersion in Sitio Mansay of San Jose’s Barangay Monteclaro was in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for a whole-of-nation approach in addressing issues within the community
and insulate the people from the New People’s Army’s (NPA) terroristic actions.

Col. Jose Augusto Villareal, commander of the 203rd Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Mindoro, said “the absence of a 14-kilometre road going to the village should not and will never be an excuse for the government not to deliver basic services to our constituents”.


It usually takes the locals two days to reach the city proper by foot.

“The use of military choppers is not only a testament to our firm resolve to end insurgency but, more importantly, it is a manifestation of our sincere intentions to help our countrymen since what used to be tools of war are now becoming symbols of peace and hope for our people” in the far-flung areas,” Villareal added.

Per reports received by the 2nd Infantry Division, around 800 Mangyans belonging to the Buhid Tribe were able to register in PhilHealth and Philippine Statistics Authority.

These are on top of the free medical and dental services as well as basic farming training by the Department of Agriculture which was followed by awarding of farm tools.

Relief goods from Department of Social Welfare and Development were also distributed following the discussion of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP for NPA terrorists who will return to the folds of law.

Villareal assured the people of Mindoro that “this second RCSP deployment will definitely not be the last and that, under the leadership of the two Provincial Task Forces ELCAC, basic services will be delivered and the government’s presence will be felt even in the farthest portion of this island."

The RCSP Team of Occidental Mindoro’s PTF-ELCAC was first deployed in the same community last July 13.

Occidental Mindoro Governor Eduardo Gadiano expressed his gratitude to the soldiers for "allowing us to use your military assets thereby helping us in fulfilling our mandate of delivering basic services and reaching out to the people whom we have sworn to serve".

“Our close collaboration, coordination and partnership will be the game-changer in our quest for lasting peace, prosperity and development which Filipinos living in this part of the country truly deserve”, Gadiano said.

Maj. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, expressed optimism that "through the active response of the different local government units toward PRRD's directive for a 'whole-of-nation nation approach', the inevitable demise of insurgency in Southern Tagalog will happen sooner than later”.

“Under the banner of good governance, your soldiers will be unrelenting in assisting our local government units and chief executives in addressing the root causes of insurgency so that never again will our people be deceived, never again will our people be agitated and never again will our people be used to promote terrorism”, Burgos said.

Per the military’s records, 44 RCSP Teams have been deployed across Southern Tagalog since May 2019.

Five more teams are scheduled to be deployed in Rizal and Batangas provinces within the month.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113131

Army intensifies drive to stop youth recruitment by NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2020): Army intensifies drive to stop youth recruitment by NPA (By Jason De Asis)



INFORMATION CAMPAIGN. The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) conducts a series of symposiums and dialogues to counter the recruitment efforts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), particularly among the youth in Maria Aurora and Baler towns in Aurora province. The activities also present the different communist rebels’ tactics and the seven stages of their infiltration of the youth sector. (Photo courtesy of the Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion)

BALER, Aurora – The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion (91IB) is stepping up its information and education campaign to counter the recruitment efforts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), particularly among the youth.

The 91IB, under the operational control of the 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade and 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, spearheaded a series of symposiums and dialogues with the youth from July to August in this town and in Maria Aurora in its determined efforts to prevent the communist terrorist groups from infiltrating the young sector.

Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio, commanding officer of the 91IB, said on Saturday the initiative is part of the implementation of Executive Order 70 and the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC) through the Information and Education Campaign and Resource Control Operations 
to prevent the communist terrorist groups from conducting recruitment among the youths.

Rubio said the series of activities also presents the different communist rebels’ tactics and the seven stages of their infiltration to the youth sector.

“Our youth is our voice and our future leaders in the country. We should capacitate and mold them to become role models in the society. We urge the youth to support the current programs and activities of the government and be aware of the propaganda lies of the communist terrorist groups,” Rubio said.

He said they will continue to conduct such activities until all youth and other sectors are aware of the deceptive propaganda of the CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front.

Wilar P. Pascua, president of the Youth for Peace (YFP) Kadayakan in Maria Aurora, called on his fellow youths to support government programs designed for the development of their sector.

He encouraged everybody to study while young and enhance their capabilities to lead the nation in the future.

“Maganda po at hanga kami sa mga sundalo ngayon kasi may mga ganitong activity po para sa aming mga kabataan para hindi kami maligaw ng landas o ma-recruit ng mga CPP-NPA-NDF dahil ang mga kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan kaya tayo ay mag-aral ng mabuti para sa ating kinabukasan (It is nice and we admired the soldiers now because there is this kind of activity for the youth so as not to go in the wrong path and be recruited by the CPP-NPA-NDF because the youth is the hope of the nation. Thus, we need to study harder for our future),” Pascua said.

Brig. General Andrew D. Costelo, commander of 703rd Brigade, said, “nananatiling pag-asa ng ating bayan ang mga kabataan. Ingatan natin sila upang tahakin lamang ang tamang landas para kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng bansa (Our youth remains the hope of our nation. Let us take care of them so that they will go through the right path)”.

Major General Alfredo V. Rosario Jr., commander of 7th Infantry Division, said that, “Ang bukas ay hindi natin tangan, tanging ang mga kabataang papalit sa atin, ang maasahang ipagpatuloy ang ating mga simulain. Turuan natin sila nang tama at wasto ngayon para maunlad at payapang bukas para sa lahat (Tomorrow is not our hands. The youth are the only ones who will replace us whom we can rely on to continue our principles. Let us teach them right and proper now for a prosperous and peaceful tomorrow to all)".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113121

NPA mass surrenders complement RTF-ELCAC efforts in Caraga: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 23, 2020): NPA mass surrenders complement RTF-ELCAC efforts in Caraga: Army (By Alexander Lopez)



TIMELY SURRENDER. Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of the Army's 402nd Infantry Brigade, welcomes the 174 New People’s Army (NPA) members and supporters from the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur who opted to return to the fold of the law, in a ceremony on Aug. 20, 2020. He said their surrender greatly complemented the efforts of the RTF-ELCAC in the area in bringing development interventions in remote villages and communities. (Photo courtesy of 402Bde)

A top official of the Philippine Army has lauded the efforts of two battalions as well as the local government units (LGUs) in Caraga region for the surrender of 174 communist New People’s Army (NPA) members and supporters late last week.

In a press statement sent to the Philippine News Agency on Sunday (Aug. 23), Brig. Gen. Maurito L. Licudine, 402nd Infantry Brigade (402Bde) commander, said the accomplishments of the 23rd and 26th Infantry Battalions in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur are remarkable and timely in view of the intensified campaign against the NPA that continues to weaken through the loss of support from communities.

“We are indeed pleased and optimistic about the turnout of surrenderers orchestrated by our battalions through our Community Support Program (CSP). These were not made possible without the convergence efforts and support of the LGUs, the Indigenous People (IP) communities and peace partner stakeholders under the Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC),” Licudine said.


In the same statement, Maj. Francisco P. Garello Jr., the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 402Bde, said 174 NPA members and supporters pledged loyalty to the government in two separate mass surrender ceremonies held last August 20 in the towns of Carmen in Agusan del Norte and Talacogon in Agusan del Sur.

Of the 174 NPA members, a total of 150 surrendered to 23rd IB while 24 to the 26th IB, he added.


Garello said that since January 2020, prior to the two mass surrender ceremonies, the 402Bde neutralized 288 NPA personalities, 241 of whom surrendered, 27 were captured, and 20 were killed.

Licudine emphasized that neutralization of NPA leaders, members and supporters is significant as it complements the efforts of the RTF-ELCAC in Caraga Region and pave the way for them to provide interventions in order to address issues commonly exploited by the communist rebels especially in areas considered as geographical isolated, disadvantaged and conflict-affected areas (GIDCAs).

“While we are committed to relentlessly pursue the remaining communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) who opted not to lay down their arms, we can assure them that the government particularly your Army is here and ready to assist former rebels and their families to transition in becoming productive members of the society,” Licudine said.

He added that all stakeholders in the region have different roles in the government’s efforts to reintegrate the former members of the NPA into the society and help achieve just and lasting peace in every community.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1113113