Wednesday, October 21, 2020

MILF fighters sent to frontline of war on COVID-19 in Bangsamoro region

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 20, 2020): MILF fighters sent to frontline of war on COVID-19 in Bangsamoro region (By: Bong S. Sarmiento)



File photos show MILF combatants in formation at Camp Darapanan, MILF’s biggest camp, in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. BONG SARMIENTO

KORONADAL CITY—Former combatants of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are fighting a war no longer against the government but an invisible enemy called the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Raissa Jajurie, minister for social services of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), said combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), armed wing of MILF, had been tapped to help the regional government stop the spread of SARS Cov2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and help people suffering from the pandemic’s impact.

BIAF members, said Jajurie, “are being helpful to us.” She said it was the BIAF that is helping secure quarantine facilities for stranded individuals returning to BARMM.

Jajurie lauded MILF fighters for performing this role at the recent online launch of the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) project to combat COVID-19 in the region which received a P50 million grant from the United Kingdom government.

She said that last July, the BIAF converted part of Camp Darapanan—MILF ‘s sprawling headquarters in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao—as quarantine facility for stranded people returning to their hometowns in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and who landed in Cagayan de Oro City aboard a ship from Manila.

The BARMM government fetched at least 400 stranded individuals from Cagayan de Oro and brought them to Maguindanao and Cotabato City for a 14-day quarantine.

It was only after the people completed their quarantine period and tested negative for coronavirus that they were allowed to return to their home provinces.

It was also the BIAF which helped send back stranded individuals to Zamboanga City and other provinces by boat, Jajurie said.

Aside from providing security, BIAF members also helped distribute relief goods to communities locked down by quarantine restrictions, Jajurie said.

Last April and May, BIAF members were instrumental in distributing cash grants from the Social Amelioration Program of the national government for COVID-19 especially in remote areas that are still MILF bailiwicks.

For at least 50 years, MILF waged war on the government to establish an independent Islamic state in Mindanao. The Moro conflict had claimed the lives of at least 120,000 people, including civilians, and ended in March 2014 after the signing of a peace agreement with the government, known as Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

In 2019, the BARMM, main product of the CAB, replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao following the ratification of Republic Act No. 11054, or the Bangsamoro Organic Act.

In September 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte led the second phase of the decommissioning of MILF forces which involved 12,000 combatants. Another 35 percent of the 40,000-strong MILF will be decommissioned during the third phase set this year. The rest of MILF fighters will be processed until 2022 for the expected signing of the exit agreement between the government and the MILF.

Interim Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim, MILF chair, stressed the need for unity to combat the spread of COVID-19, a disease he described as the “biggest crisis humanity faces during this century.”

“In a region that has its own share of humanitarian emergencies, nothing can compare to the uncertainty brought about by this pandemic,” he said.

He said he had seen “indescribable tragedies” in various communities during his lifetime but expressed confidence that the new Bangsamoro region could hurdle this health emergency.

One of the major challenges facing the BARMM government in dealing with COVID-19 is the geographic characteristic of the area, said Mohd Asnin Pendatun, BARMM Cabinet secretary and concurrent spokesperson of the BARMM Inter-agency Task Force on COVID-19.

BARMM covers the mainland provinces of Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur and the island-provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi, where MILF has loyal followers.

Pendatun said the fight against COVID-19 in the island-provinces had been beset by lack of testing capabilities by local government units.

Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing is being done in a lab in Zamboanga City, which takes time, since the city also faces a surge in COVID-19 cases, Pendatun said.

In Tawi-Tawi and Sulu provinces, however, two GeneXpert machines have been deployed to be used for RT-PCR testing and local health workers are just waiting to be trained in using them, Pendatun said.

He said internet connectivity in the island provinces is also a problem in delivering COVID-19 information to remote communities.

“As we continue the battle against COVID-19, we see that our challenges continue to evolve but we’ve been adjusting to it and directly address the challenges in those parts of the region,” he said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1350509/milf-fighters-sent-to-frontline-of-war-on-covid-19-in-bangsamoro-region

PNP acquires 22 speed boats from Danao City manufacturer

 From the Sun Star (Oct 19, 2020): PNP acquires 22 speed boats from Danao City manufacturer



DANAO City in northern Cebu is home to many illegal gun manufacturers. What many don’t know is that it is also home to Dynacast, a manufacturer of High Speed Tactical Watercraft (HSTW).

The Philippine National Police (PNP) recently acquired 22 HSTW from the firm to go after criminals on the water.

The HSTW has three 750 horsepower engines, which makes it stable even when going at speeds of 47 knots, or roughly 87 kilometers per hour, according to Brig. Gen. Albert Ignatius Ferro, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7.

It is also armed with 7.62 mm machine guns and automatic grenade launchers.

Ferro said two speed boats will be given to the PRO 7.

He said it is the ideal craft to patrol the waters that surround Cebu, which is why he plans to partner with local government units for the purchase of additional units.

He said drug personalities and terrorists often use the sea to carry out their illegal activities.

Ferro cited the incursion of Abu Sayyaf members in the neighboring island of Bohol in 2017.

With the reopening of tourism in Central Visayas, he said the sea must be guarded.

“The way to protect us from drug smuggling, terrorism and other internal security issues is having a police force in the maritime line,” Ferro said.

The police official believes the PNP will acquire more speed boats from Danao City to be distributed in all regions of the country.

Ferro said he is proud that the manufacturer of the world-class HSTW is in Cebu. It is something Cebu should boast about to help improve the lives of Danao City’s residents.

He has suggested to the City Government to encourage manufacturers of homemade guns, which are illegal, to switch to making door knobs, which are legal.

https://ph.news.yahoo.com/pnp-acquires-22-speed-boats-133500728.html

CPP/NPA-Bicol ROC: Bukas na liham sa mga elemento ng CAFGU

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Bukas na liham sa mga elemento ng CAFGU

RAYMUNDO BUENFUERZA
SPOKESPERSON
BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND
ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Sa aming mga kapatid sa kabilang hanay,

Kumusta kayo? Malugod naming ipinapaabot ang maalab naming pagbati sa inyo ngayong araw.

Sumulat kami sa inyo ngayon dahil batid naming kayo rin, kapwang inaapi at pinagsasamantalahan, ay hirap umahon mula sa kahirapan sa panahong ito. Batid naming ilan sa inyo ay napilitan lamang maging CAFGU – mga inabutan ng operasyong militar, tinakot at ginamit ng AFP upang itulak ang isang gera laban sa inyong kapwa magsasaka.

Batid namin ang dinaranas niyong pang-aapi at pagsasamantala sa pagiging CAFGU. Malamang marami na rin sa inyo ang nagsisisi dahil hindi naman binago ng pagiging CAFGU ang buhay na iniwanan ninyo. Parehas lang na kakarampot ang sweldong natatanggap ninyo. Kumpara sa sahod ng regular na sundalo, mistulang limos lang ang nakukuha ninyo! Ang masahol pa, ipinagkakait ng inyong handler ang inyong sweldo. Sadya itong inaantala upang makapagpatubo pa sa bangko. Kinakaltasan pa ito kapag nahuhuli kayong dumating sa duty o hindi nakakapagsuot ng uniporme. Inaalila kayo ng mga amo niyong militar – ginagawang tagapagluto, tagahugas ng plato, tagalaba, at kapag mayroong inuman at nalalasing sila, kayo rin ang pinaglalaruan nila.

Para sa AFP, barya lamang ang buhay ng CAFGU. Itinuturing kayong pananggalang sa mga operasyong militar. Sapilitan kayong ginagawang giya. Isinusuong kayo sa mga labananang tiyak ang kabiguan. At sa sandaling mabigo, itinatago ang inyong pagbubuwis ng buhay at itinuturing na kahihiyan.

Ito ba talaga ang trabahong ninanais ninyong ipagpatuloy? Ilan pa sa inyong mga kababaryo, kapamilya’t kaibigan ang kaya ninyong makitang pinahihirapan, inaabuso o pinapaslang ng militar?

Hindi pa huli upang pumili kung kanino kayo magsisilbi. Tulad ng ibang piniling kumampi sa mamamayan na ipinagtatanggol ang kanilang hanay mula sa duguang kamay ng mga berdugo, pasista at tiranikong rehimen, buong lugod kayong tatanggapin ng bayan. Hinihintay kayo ng kapwa ninyong uring anakpawis sa ating makatarungang digma. Natatanaw natin ang tagumpay sa labang iyon at labis kaming magagagalak kung makakasama namin kayo.

Para sa sambayanan,

Ka Raymundo Buenfuerza, Tagpagsalita
Romulo Jallores Command (RJC-BHB Bikol)

https://cpp.ph/statements/bukas-na-liham-sa-mga-elemento-ng-cafgu/

CPP/NMDF-LUMABAN-Bicol: LUMABAN-Bikol on the implementing rules and regulations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): LUMABAN-Bikol on the implementing rules and regulations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020

LUPON NG MANANANGGOL PARA SA BAYAN-BICOL
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



The US-Duterte regime will do everything to silence all critics and opposition. The co-opted judiciary has even unduly postponed the hearing of almost 40 petitions against the law! Even without the IRR, the dictatorial regime has already managed to arrest four progressive and nationalist personalities in the region in a span of two months. With the full blown implementation of ATA and other fascist policies, the people have no other recourse but to fight and ensure the victory of a revolution that will overpower any fascist regime.

https://cpp.ph/statements/lumaban-bikol-on-the-implementing-rules-and-regulations-of-the-anti-terrorism-act-of-2020/

CPP/NPA-Bicol ROC: Matagumpay na ambus sa Oas, Albay, tugon ng RJC-BHB Bikol sa mapanalasang operasyong RCSP

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Matagumpay na ambus sa Oas, Albay, tugon ng RJC-BHB Bikol sa mapanalasang operasyong RCSP

RAYMUNDO BUENFUERZA
SPOKESPERSON
BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND
ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Higit kailanma’y naglalagablab ang digmang bayan! Pinagpupugayan ng RJC-BHB Bikol ang mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma ng Santos Binamera Command (SBC-BHB Albay) sa matagumay na ambus laban sa 49th IBPA at 9th ID CMO Bn. na ilinunsad nitong Oktubre 17 sa Brgy. Tugbon, Oas, Albay. Apat ang napaslang, kabilang na si Sgt. Ignacio Refuerzo ng 9th ID CMO Battalion. Sampu naman ang naitalang sugatan, kabilang na sina Sgt. Edgar Sarahan, Pfc. Alsadda Abdulahid, Pfc. Alvin Esteria, Pvt. John Mark Verdeflor at Pvt. Teodoro Cardano, Jr.

Walang ibang idinulot ang operasyong RCSP sa rehiyon kung hindi paninira sa buhay at kabuhayan ng masang Bikolano. Reputasyon na ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU, mula pa sa paglulunsad ng Special Operations Team (SOT), Reengineered Special Operations Team (RSOT) at Peace and Development Teams (PDT), ang paninira ng mga pananim, pagnanakaw ng kagamitan at alagang hayop ng masa, pagpapalaganap ng macho-pasistang kultura sa baryo, panonortyur ng taumbaryo at pagmamasaker sa mga pamilya. Sariwa pa sa alaala ng mga taumbaryo ang pamamaslang kina Luzviminda Dayandante at Albert Orlina ng Guinobatan Albay at ang sunud-sunod na masaker ng mga magsasaka, upisyal ng barangay at negosyante sa Masbate at Sorsogon.

Ipinagbubunyi ng masa ang pagpaapanagot sa AFP-PNP-CAFGU sa Albay at Sorsogon. Saan mang dako ng rehiyon, ang mga tagumpay ng mga yunit kumand ng RJC-BHB Bikol ay pagpapadagundong ng kawastuhan ng digmang isinusulong ng mamamayan. Bigo na ang RCSP bago pa ito magsimula! At tiyak, paulit-ulit lamang na mabibigo ang mga isusunod pa nilang operasyong militar dahil tangan ng Partido at ng BHB ang superyoridad sa pulitika. Hindi kailanman maaasahan ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU na susuportahan ng masang anakpawis ang isang digma laban sa kanilang kapwa inaapi at pinagsasamantalahan.

Bawat tagumpay ng BHB ay tagumpay ng masang Bikolano laban sa pasismo ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Higit na tumataas ang determinasyon ng mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma na ipagtanggol ang masa, itaas ang kanilang kapasyahang wasakin ang mapang-api at mapagsamantalang sistema at ipagtagumpay ang digmang bayan.

Mayong orgullo sa pagpapasakit sa namamanwaan!
Militar sa kanayunan, palayasin! Biguin ang RCSP!
Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte!
Ibayong isulong ang digmang bayan sa higit na mataas na antas!

https://cpp.ph/statements/matagumpay-na-ambus-sa-oas-albay-tugon-ng-rjc-bhb-bikol-sa-mapanalasang-operasyong-rcsp/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: NDF-Bikol hinggil sa pagdaan ng US spy plane sa Yellow Sea

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): NDF-Bikol hinggil sa pagdaan ng US spy plane sa Yellow Sea

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Dali-daling humingi ng tawad ang tuta para sa kanyang amo! Lantarang nangagayupapa si Duterte at ang kanyang mga alagad sa imperyalistang US. Di na baleng maging lunsaran ng US ang Pilipinas ng inter-imperyalistang digma nito sa Tsina – para kay Duterte, higit na matimbang ang suporta ng imperyalista sa kanyang diktadura.

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-bikol-hinggil-sa-pagdaan-ng-us-spy-plane-sa-yellow-sea/

CPP/NDF-PKM-Bicol: PKM-Bikol sa pagkakapasa ng panukalang batas ng Coconut Levy Trust Fund sa Senado

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): PKM-Bikol sa pagkakapasa ng panukalang batas ng Coconut Levy Trust Fund sa Senado

PAMBANSANG KATIPUNAN NG MGA MAGBUBUKID-BICOL
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Traydor ang rehimeng US-Duterte! Matapos nitong ipangalandakan ang pagbabalik ng coco levy fund sa mga magniniyog sa tatlong magkakasunod na SONA, prayoridad na ngayon sa Kongreso ang paggamit ng pondong ito para sa umano’y trust fund. Lumang tugtugin na ito ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno upang matakasan ang pananagutan at hindi na ibalik ang bilyun-bilyong ninakaw mula sa magniniyog. Sa halip na maging ayuda sa magniniyog, tiyak didiretso ito sa makakapal na bulsa at kaha-de-yero ng mga burukrata kapitalista’t mga kasapakat nila sa sektor ng pinansya.

https://cpp.ph/statements/pkm-bikol-sa-pagkakapasa-ng-panukalang-batas-ng-coconut-levy-trust-fund-sa-senado/

CPP/NDF-MAKIBAKA-Bikol: MAKIBAKA-Bikol sa pagkamatay ng anak ni Reina Nasino habang siya ay nasa kulungan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): MAKIBAKA-Bikol sa pagkamatay ng anak ni Reina Nasino habang siya ay nasa kulungan

OCTOBER 20, 2020


Napakaluwag sa isang bulok na sistema ng hustisyang bigyan ng pagkakataong bumisita sa mga kamag-anak at makalabas ng kulungan at mga kurakot at mamamatay-tao! Samantala, hinintay pa ng pasistang estadong mamatay ang anak ni Reina Nasino, isang makabayang ina, bago siya makasaglit sa labas ng kulungan. Overkill pa ang pwersa ng militar at pulis sa burol!

Mahigpit na nakikiramay ang MAKIBAKA-Bikol kay Nasino, sa kanyang pamilya at sa daan-daan pang bilanggong pulitikal na pinagkaitan ng pasistang estado ng kanilang mga batayang karapatan. Higit nitong pinag-aalab ang kapasyahan ng rebolusyonaryong kababaihang isulong ang paglaban upang mapabagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte at ang sistemang nagbibigay ng labis-labis na kaalwanan sa mga gahaman at kriminal na naghaharing-uri.

https://cpp.ph/statements/makibaka-bikol-sa-pagkamatay-ng-anak-ni-reina-nasino-habang-siya-ay-nasa-kulungan/

CPP/IB: Disarm and withdraw military unit involved in child shooting, CPP demands

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Disarm and withdraw military unit involved in child shooting, CPP demands

INFORMATION BUREAU
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



For wounding a child and endangering the lives of at least 11 other people including an infant, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) demanded on Monday that the military unit involved in a rampage in Bukidnon last October 16 be disarmed and withdrawn from the area.

Marco Valbuena, CPP chief information officer, condemned the indiscriminate firing by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) soldiers against a family harvesting corn in their field in Barangay Indalaza, Malaybalay City. A 10-year old boy identified as Jemlyn Liaban suffered a gunshot wound to his foot. The strafing also endangered Jessica Limpyo who was carrying her baby.

A report on the indiscriminate firing was exposed earlier by the National Democratic Front-North Central Mindanao Region, which said that after being engaged in an armed encounter with a unit of the New People’s Army, the soldiers indiscriminately shelled the area with artillery and strafed other nearby huts and houses for about an hour. The field where Jemlyn’s family was harvesting corn was only 100 meters away from the soldiers.

The NDF-NCMR also reported that after the indiscriminate firing, the soldiers proceeded to the barangay center where they harassed residents. A resident identified as Tet Limbos was mauled. Also, the soldiers challenged a local religious leader to a fistfight.

“Soldiers belonging to this AFP unit must be immediately disarmed, removed from their post, and charged for their criminal acts,” Valbuena said.

It was not immediately known which military unit perpetrated the crime. Bukidnon is covered by operations of the 403rd Brigade, which is encamped in Malaybalay City and is currently being commanded by Col. Ferdinand Barandon. Since March 2018, at least five battalions under the 403rd Brigade have targeted Bukidnon with focused military operations.

Barangay Indalaza is one of the villages on Pantaron Mountain Range, which is included in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s so-called Convergence Areas for Peace and Development. Focused military operations aim to “clear” the areas of NPA presence and drive away residents to pave the way for the South Pulangi Hydroelectric Power Plant project, commercial plantations and other infrastructure projects.

Valbuena urged human rights and humanitarian agencies and organizations to immediately carry out an independent investigation into the incident. He also called on the residents to stand firm and demand justice and retribution.

He called on the local NPA unit to do their utmost to defend the masses against military abuses and mount tactical offensives that the perpetrators of the crime.

https://cpp.ph/statements/disarm-and-withdraw-military-unit-involved-in-child-shooting-cpp-demands/

CPP/NPA-Camarines Sur: Panibagong kaso ng Pamamaslang sa bayan ng Bato, bigwas ng ganap na pagpapatupad ng Anti-Terror Law!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Panibagong kaso ng Pamamaslang sa bayan ng Bato, bigwas ng ganap na pagpapatupad ng Anti-Terror Law!

RAMONA CACERES
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-CAMARINES SUR
EDMUNDO OLBARRA COMMAND
BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND
ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND\
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Kinukundena ng Eduardo Olbarra Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Camarines Sur ang pamamaslang ng mga elemento ng 83rd Infantry Battallion kay Joan Marpiga y Baladia sa loob mismo ng kanyang tahanan sa Brgy. Mangga, bayan ng Bato, Camarines Sur noong 1:00 ng madaling araw (Oktubre 18). Tulad ng nakasanayan nang panloloko ng militar, pinalabas na NPA si Marpiga at nanlaban matapos hainan ng mandamyento de aresto ng mga pasistang tropa sa dis-oras ng gabi. Pinasok naman ang katabing bahay at pinagbububugbog ang may-ari nito. Sinasaklaw ang bayan ng Bato ng operasyong militar sa ilalim ng Retooled Community Support Program.

Ang nangyaring pamamaslang kay Marpiga ay isa sa mukha ng terorismo ng estado na Anti-Terror Law. Sa Kabikulan, karaniwan nang modus operandi ng Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) ang istilong Tokhang na mga operasyon laban sa mga pinaghihinalaang suportador ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan at sa gayo’y tinatatakan bilang terorista. Ito ay upang pagtakpan ang kanilang pagpatay sa mga masang magsasaka, kabilang ang mga masaker sa sibilyan sa Brgy. Dolos, Bulan, Sorsogon at nito lamang Setyembre, sa Brgy. Alas, Mandaon, Masbate.

Nananawagan ang EOC-BHB Camarines Sur sa mga mamamayan ng prubinsya na hadlangan ang papatinding bigwas ng Anti-Terror Law. Kundenahin ang militarisasyon sa prubinsya at magkaisa sa panawagang palayasin ang militar sa mga komunidad ng kanayunan.#

https://cpp.ph/statements/panibagong-kaso-ng-pamamaslang-sa-bayan-ng-bato-bigwas-ng-ganap-na-pagpapatupad-ng-anti-terror-law/

CPP/NPA-Surigao del Sur: Nag-Community Support Program (CSP) nga tropa sa 36th IBPA- nagkampo sa eskoylahan ug health center, gihimong taming ang mga sibilyan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Nag-Community Support Program (CSP) nga tropa sa 36th IBPA- nagkampo sa eskoylahan ug health center, gihimong taming ang mga sibilyan

SANDARA SIDLAKAN
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-SURIGAO DEL SUR
NORTHEAST MINDANAO REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Ang New Peoples Army-Surigao del Sur sa Northeastern Mindanao Region ug ang katawhan hugot nga nagkundena sa pagkampo sa eskwelahan ug health center sa nag-Community Support Program (CSP), nga tropa sa 36th IBPA didto sa sityo Hitaob, Awacian, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. Gihimong taming niini ang sibilyang komunidad ngadto sa mga ginalunsad nga aksyong militar sa NPA batok sa ilang mga tropa nga nag-CSP.

Kaniadtong Oktubre 16, sa may alas 12:40 sa udto, giisnayp-haras sa NPA-SDS ang nag-CSP nga tropa sa 36th IBPA nga nagkampo sa eskoylahan sa sityo Hitaob. Natapsingan sa dalunggan ug ilong si Ely Apasible, usa ka maestro sa maong tulunghaan nga nakigsagol adtong tungura sa panagtapok sa kaaway. Sa pikas bahin, adunay usa usab ka kaswalti sa han-ay sa nag-CSP nga tropa sa AFP.

Matod sa operatib sa NPA-SDS, walay klase niadtong tungura ang eskoylahan tungod sa Covid -19. Mireport ang maestro sa eskoylahan nianang buntag aron maghatod og mga modyuls ug pagkaon. Pagka alas 11:30 sa udto miadto diay siya didto sa klasrum kun asa nagkampo ang nag-CSP nga tropa sa 36th IBPA. Nakasul-ob kini og army cap, blue jersy nga sleeveles ug itom nga cargo short nga sama og porma sa kaaway, wala kini naka-uniporme. Resulta, napagan siya sa pag-aim sa isnayper-operatib sa NPA-SDS. Dili gyud intensyon nga siya ang tirahon. Wala nahibalo ang mga operatib nga naa diay sibilyan, naalaan ra kini siya.

Tungod niini namakwit ang mga lumulupyo sa kabalaka nilang madamay. Apan gihulga sila ni Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmil, batalyon komander sa 36th IBPA nga kun dili sila mouli sa ilang lugar, kasohan ang ilang mga opisyales sa barangay nga kuno mga suporter sa NPA. Maong napugos silang mobalik sa ilang sityo.

Nakapahulga gyud ang pagpang-isnayp haras sa NPA-SDS ngadto sa nag-CSP nga tropa sa 36th IBPA tungod kay halos mokabat og 15 minutos ang unang hugna sa pagbalos-pamusil niini, samtang laing 5 minutos na usab nga pagpabuto nianang hapon. Nagresulta kini og grabeng kahadlok sa mga lumulupyo tungod sa paturagas nga pagpamusil sa AFP. Pagka alas 10:00 sa gabie sa mao ra nga petsa, naharas na usab sa NPA-SDS ang pipila ka nagnaog nga tropa sa 36th IBPA. Maong samot nga nabalaka ang kaaway kun sila lang ang magpabilin sa baryo, wala nay mga sibilyan.

Target sa mga aksyong militar sa NPA ang mga nag-CSP nga pwersa sa AFP ug PNP. Dako kaayo ang nahimong salaod ug kadaot niini sa kinabuhi ug panginabuhian sa katawhan dinha sa mga baryo. Ginapig-utan niini ang mga lumulupyo nga moadto sa ilang mga umahan ug ginalimitahan pa sila kun pila lang ka kilong bugas ang ilang pwedeng paliton. Nahimong pugaran pa kini sa mga dautan ug kriminal nga binuhatan sama nila sa paggamit og iligal nga droga, reyp,kawat, pinile implant (pag-injek og babyoil sa kinatawo sa lalaki), pagpatay ug uban pa. Kaylap usab ang peke ug pugsanong pagpasurender sa mga sibilyan nga kuno mga membro sa NPA, pag-red tag, pagpangsaywar ug pagpaniktik.

Mahimong pagtulun-an usab kini sa katawhan nga dili gyud mosagol ngadto sa mga armadong pwersa sa AFP kun anaa man ugaling magpondo o magkampo sa ilang mga komunidad. Nagapahimangno usab ang NPA-SDS ngadto sa katawhan nga dili gyud magsuot og mga sanina nga sama sa military aron dili maalaan. Kinahanglan, ipanghingusog sa katawhan nga papahawaon ang mga tropa sa AFP ug PNP nga nag-CSP sa ilang mga baryo aron malikayan ang pagkadamay sa mga sibilyan. Ug sa ingon mahunong na usab ang grabeng pagpahimulos ug pagpangdaogdaog sa mga berdugong AFP ug PNP dinha sa mga sibilyang komunidad.

Sa katapusan, ang pagkampo sa mga pwersa sa AFP ug PNP ngadto sa mga pangpublikong pasilidad, dakong paglapas sa internasyunal nga balaod sa gubat.

Papahawaon ang mga tropa sa AFP/ PNP sa mga sibilyang komunidad!
Dili pondohan o kampohan sa mga armadong yunit ang mga pampublikong pasilidad!
Katungod sa katawhan, respetuhan!

https://cpp.ph/statements/nag-community-support-program-csp-nga-tropa-sa-36th-ibpa-nagkampo-sa-eskoylahan-ug-health-center-gihimong-taming-ang-mga-sibilyan/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Itinataguyod ng mga operasyong RCSP ang neoliberal at pasistang interes ng rehimeng US-Duterte

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Itinataguyod ng mga operasyong RCSP ang neoliberal at pasistang interes ng rehimeng US-Duterte

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Walang lumilipas na araw na hindi nanganganib ang buhay ng bawat masang Bikolano sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Kaliwa’t kanan ang pamamaslang, panghaharas at iba’t ibang porma ng panggigipit sa kamay ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU, laluna’t umaarangkada ang mga yunit ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) sa kanayunan. Malinaw na nananalasa ang mga operasyong ito kung saan man mayroon ding nakatakdang dambuhalang proyektong pang-imprastruktura.

Pinakamatinding nakararanas ng bigwas ng RCSP ang Masbate. Nitong Setyembre 29, pinaslang ng 2nd IBPA at 1st Masbate PMFC ang si Jerry Regala ng Brgy. Dalipe, Cawayan at sina Judy Barruga at Joey Asne, mga upisyal ng barangay sa Brgy. Cajonday, Baleno. Dinakip ang tatlo noong Setyembre 26, dinala sa Brgy. Alas, Mandaon at doon pinagbabaril. Gamit ang estilong mala-Synchronized Enhanced Management of Police Operations (SEMPO), nagpostura ang AFP-PNP-CAFGU na aarestuhin ang tatlo batay sa iligal na warrant of arrest. Matapos mapaslang, pinalabas ng 2nd IBPA na engkwentro ang naganap. Ito na ang pangatlong masaker sa naturang prubinsya ngayong taon. Animnapu’t dalawang poryento (62%) ng mga ekstrahudisyal na pamamaslang sa rehiyon mula Enero ay naganap sa naturang prubinsya. Nitong Agosto 2 at 3, tatlong insidente rin ng istraping ang naitala sa Aroroy, Masbate.

Ano nga bang pinanggigigilan ng pasistang estado sa Masbate? Naglalaway ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa lawak at yaman ng lupain ng prubinsya. Malawakan nitong ginamit ang huwad na reporma sa lupa upang mabuksan ang kumbersyon ng pampublikong lupa para sa turismo at iba pang industriyal na gamit. Ilang taon nang nakabinbin ang mga nakatakdang proyektong neoliberal sa prubinsya. Humaharap sa matinding paglaban ng mamamayan ang pagpapatuloy sa konstruksyon ng Masbate International Tourism Enterprise and Special Economic Zone (MPARK-MITESEZ), proyekto ng isang Tsinong kroni ni Duterte na si Huang Rulun. Matatagumpay na aksyong demolisyon ang kamakailang yumanig sa mga kumpanya ng Matibay Cement Factory at Filminera Resources Corp.

Ngunit hibang lamang ang makaiisip na isusuko ng masang anakpawis na nagpuhunan ng buhay-at-kamatayan upang mabawi ang lupa mula sa mga rantsero.

Para sa isang rehiyong tinatarget ng papet na rehimeng tayuan ng sandamakmak na dambuhalang minahan at proyektong panturismo, hindi nalalayong ito rin ang panganib na nakaamba sa buhay at kabuhayan ng masang Bikolano sa iba pang prubinsya. Sa Albay at Sorsogon, paulit-ulit nang ipinatatawag ang mga residente at ilang araw na pinababalik sa kampo ng militar. Pinupulong nila ang mga barangay council at tinatakot ang sinumang maaaring simpatisador ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Nasaan mang bahagi ng rehiyon o ng bansa, pinagbibigkis ang lahat ng mamamayan ng isang kolektibong karanasan at pangarap – ang karanasan ng walang humpay na pang-aapi at pagsasamantala at ang pag-aasam na lumaya mula rito. Mahigpit na nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa masang Bikolano na makiisa at tumulong sa pagtatambol ng mga neoliberal at pasistang atake ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa Masbate at sa iba pang bahagi ng rehiyon. Ilantad ang RCSP bilang instrumento ng pasistang rehimen upang itulak ang anumang adyendang sang-ayon sa interes ng mga imperyalista at alagad nito.

Hindi kailanman nabigo ang kilusang masang ipagtanggol ang kanilang mga karapatan at lehitimong interes. Nasa panig nila ang hustisya, at nasa panig nila ang tagumpay. Panata ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang gabayan at samahan ang masang Bikolano sa bawat hakbang upang makamit ito.

https://cpp.ph/statements/itinataguyod-ng-mga-operasyong-rcsp-ang-neoliberal-at-pasistang-interes-ng-rehimeng-us-duterte/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Ang delubyo ng 9th Infantry Division

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Ang delubyo ng 9th Infantry Division

NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



https://cpp.ph/statements/ang-delubyo-ng-9th-infantry-division/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Ipagtagumpay ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan, lumaya mula sa kagutuman at pasismo!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 20, 2020): Ipagtagumpay ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan, lumaya mula sa kagutuman at pasismo!

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 20, 2020



Ginugutom at pinapatay ng rehimeng US-Duterte ang mamamayang Pilipino. Ngayong taon, naitala ang pinakamataas na tantos ng kagutuman sa bansa sa loob ng dalawang dekada. Ngayong taon din maitatala ang isa sa pinakamatataas na bilang ng masaker sa rehiyon mula 2016. Ito ang patung-patong na pagdurusang ipinababalikat ng bulok na malakolonyal at malapyudal na sistema sa mga magsasaka at iba pang aping uri sa lipunan.

Lagi’t laging magkatambal ang hambalos ng pasismo at neoliberalismo sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mamamayang Pilipino. Pinakamataas ang konsentrasyon ng pwersa ng militar sa mga bayang saklaw ng malalawak na pagpapalit-gamit ng lupa upang bigyang-daan ang mga mapanirang proyektong pang-imprastruktura. Sa Kabikulan, sinasalakay ng operasyon ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) ang mga bayan kung saan itatayo ang mga dambuhalang imprastruktura at mga taktikal na kalsadang pinalalawak para sa turismo, pagmimina at iba pang industriya.

Bakit nga naman mag-aaksaya ng panahon ang gubyernong pataasin ang antas ng kultura at pamumuhay kung mangangahulugan ito ng pagkamulat at pagkakaroon ng kapasyahan ng mamamayan nito? Sa Albay, Sorsogon at Masbate, mga prubinsyang kasalukuyang binubuhusan ng ibayong pwersa ng operasyong RCSP, winawasak ng AFP ang mga tahanan at taniman ng mga magsasaka. Walang habas na pambubomba, istraping, indiscriminate firing, at sadyang paninira ng pananim ang wumawasak sa natatanging kabuhayan ng mga magsasaka. Makailang beses na ring hinarangan ng mga tsekpoynt ng militar at pulis ang mga magsasakang walang ibang hinangad kung hindi ihatid ang kanilang produkto sa sentrong bayan.

Ito ang reaksyunaryong gubyerno, at sa huli, sistemang pababagsakin ng rebolusyong pinamumunuan ng CPP-NPA-NDFP. Bahagi ng programa ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan ang pagpawi sa kagutuman at pagkamit ng katarungan para sa lahat ng biktima ng pasismo ng estado. Pinatunayan ng karanasan ng bansa sa pagharap sa pandemya ang humihigpit na pangangailangan sa isang ekonomyang nakaasa-sa-sarili at pagpapahalaga sa agrikultura ng bansa. Sa mga purok na mayroong organo ng Pulang kapangyarihan matatagpuan ang mga grupong tulungan at mga kooperatiba ng mamamayan na nagsisikap na mapaunlad ang pamamaraan sa pagsasaka. Ilang grupong tulungan sa Kabikulan na ang nakapag-ani ng labis-labis na palay at gulay at nakapagpamigay pa ng kanilang ani sa mga katabing baryo at syudad. Sa mga baryong ito, mahigpit ding napanghahawakan at buu-buong naisasapraktika ng taumbaryo ang kanilang mga karapatan. Dito, kinikilala ng taumbaryo ang kanilang hukbo bilang katuwang sa produksyon at pakikibaka hindi mga nangwawasak ng kanilang kabuhayan.

Walang ibang natatakot sa mapagpalayang rebolusyon ng mamamayan kung hindi ang mga gahaman at mapagsamantalang naghaharing-uring takot sa pagbabanat ng buto at sa lipunang hindi umiiral ang pang-aapi at pagsasamantala. Kaisa ng uring anakpawis ang NDF-Bikol sa pagpapanday ng isang kinabukasang hindi na kailangang danasin pa ang labis-labis na kahirapan at kagutuman.

Tutulan at labanan ang mga mga mapangwasak na proyekto sa kanayunan! Biguin ang RCSP!
Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte!
Isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan!

https://cpp.ph/statements/ipagtagumpay-ang-demokratikong-rebolusyong-bayan-lumaya-mula-sa-kagutuman-at-pasismo/

CPP/NDF-PKM-Southern Mindanao: The Filipino peasant class is a formidable force in resisting the tyrant Duterte and waging the people’s war

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 21, 2020): The Filipino peasant class is a formidable force in resisting the tyrant Duterte and waging the people’s war

RESTITUTO BAGUER
SPOKESPERSON
PAMBANSANG KATIPUNAN NG MGA MAGBUBUKID-SOUTHERN MINDANAO
NDF-SOUTHERN MINDANAO
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 21, 2020



This Peasant Month, the Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) in Southern Mindanao upholds the revolutionary struggle for land, life, and justice of the Filipino peasantry against feudal bondage, fascism, injustice, and inequality. At a historical time when a global pandemic is instigating a domino effect on the collective socio-economic lives of Filipinos, we reckon the vital position of the peasant class as a formidable force in resisting the tyrannical and fascist US-Duterte regime and advancing the people’s war in general.

The present plight of the peasant masses reflects and reaffirms the reality of our semicolonial and semifeudal society: that peasants, including the Lumad and other indigenous people in the countryside, bear the heaviest onus of poverty, oppression, and tyranny perpetrated by the unholy alliance of landed gentries, big-compradors, and the fascist Duterte regime. The Covid-19 pandemic, which has fractured global supply chains, is poised to compound this already dire situation, with the international community sounding alarm on the very real possibility of “mega famines.”

The fascist and corrupt puppet of the reactionary regime, Rodrigo Duterte, has made the lives of Filipino peasants unbearable day in and day out. Even prior to the pandemic, even official figures of the the US-Duterte regime cannot gloss over the fact that poverty incidence among farmers and fisherfolk are highest in the country.

Duterte is a virulent pest in the lives of peasants in the country. The 2019 Rice Tariffication Law he foisted on Filipino rice farmers is dragging the domestic rice production into imminent extinction and continues to burden consumers with perennial price hikes as a result of unbridled rice imports. Ambitious programs like the Build, Build, Build program aggressively convert farmlands for infrastructure, real-estate and other commercial purposes. This is on top of the perpetual land-grabbing connivance of the reactionary government and economic interests of the ruling class that encroach on the ancestral domain of Lumad and other indigenous people and displaced peasants from their only means of livelihood. In Davao del Norte alone, research from non-government organizations claims that in the last 30 years, conservative estimates of land area for rice production dwindled by more than 50,000 hectares (from 80,000 to 28,000 hectares), while the land area for corn production slid by more than 141,000 hectares (from 158,000 to 16,000 hectares). More productive lands are set to be converted into infrastructure projects such as the Mindanao Railway Project under BBB.

Food production in the country is enmeshed in sordid self-contradiction– the people who produce food for the nation cannot afford to put food on their tables. In many parts in Southern Mindanao, rice farmers, for instance, are saddled by rising costs of production while farmgate prices continue to dwindle. In North Cotabato, local traders buy palay at a measly P9 to P13 per kilo, pushing farmers in the trap of usurious debt in order to make both ends meet.

The US-Duterte regime has also surpassed all post-Marcos reactionary governments in its fetid corruption and ferocious fascism, especially against Filipino peasants. Amid the onslaught of the pandemic, he and his insatiable ilk in Congress shortchanged peasants and food production, with the agriculture sector set to receive a measly 1.5% of the Filipino taxpayers’ money, all the while allocating a lion share for their bureaucratic loot in preparation for the 2022 elections and ensuring massive fund for the fascist AFP and PNP to buy off the armed mercenaries’ loyalty.

This beefed-up budget of the state’s armed minions serves no other purpose but to enable state terrorism against the Filipino masses, especially the peasantry in the countryside. The recently released Implementing Rules and Regulations of Duterte’s Anti-Terror Law targets the most vulnerable sectors of society, especially the peasants and the Lumad, who are at the mercy of a draconian law that has vilified the peasants and Lumad and their struggle for their democratic rights.

Under the fascist US-Duterte regime, at least 250 peasants have already been killed. In combat operations, Tokhang-style executions, summarily killings by state-sponsored paramilitaries, Duterte’s impunity killed at least one peasant every week for the past 4 years. Indeed, Duterte’s priority is in killing the Filipino peasants, if not with torturous and prolonged hunger, then with bullets paid for by Filipino taxpayers’ money.

In spite of and in most cases because of these, Filipino peasants continue to ensure the growth of the national democratic revolution. They remain the base in which the people’s war and the agrarian revolution are being waged and won. In Southern Mindanao, peasants and Lumad comprise majority of the revolutionary mass base where organs of political power are being built. In some areas, they are still able to creatively undertake the minimum program of the agrarian revolution despite the forward deployment of troops in their barangays and towns. While the US-Duterte regime’s counter-insurgency attacks have changed how organizing and mobilizing are being undertaken, peasants in the region, with the leadership of their mass organizations, Party branches and the NPA, have adapted to ensure that revolutionary tasks are carried out.

More importantly, the peasant masses continues to be the fertile soil of armed revolutionary resistance in the countryside. In the region, peasants have always accounted for the bulk of the New People’s Army’s local membership, hailing from middle to poor peasants, landless farm-workers, fisherfolk, Lumad, women, and in some guerilla fronts, even rich peasants. In Party branches and mass organizations, peasants hold leadership positions in getting organized and continuing to resist the fascist attacks of the AFP’s focused military operations. They entrust their best sons and daughters to the people’s army, who go on to become Red commanders, political officers, or medical officers, fulfilling their potential which would have otherwise been left unrealized in the limited opportunities and anti-poor predisposition of the semicolonial and semifeudal society.

Even the seemingly bottomless resources poured into Duterte’s much-favored National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) have not halted the peasant masses’ active involvement and support to the people’s war. With Duterte’s criminal inutility in handling the pandemic, obscene corruption and excessive military spending for more troop deployment and land and aerial bombardment, more and more peasants are emboldened to join the NPA and mount various forms of resistance.

We take pride in our revolutionary struggle not just to reclaim our lands and livelihood but to dismantle the very system of semicolonialism and semifeudalism that enabled our historical oppression. In the midst of this pandemic, we enjoin our fellow peasants to draw up campaigns and programs to address food security and demand support for food production. We must link arms with all exploited sectors of society in defeating the US-Duterte’s tyrannical regime and further the Filipino people’s war.


https://cpp.ph/statements/the-filipino-peasant-class-is-a-formidable-force-in-resisting-the-tyrant-duterte-and-waging-the-peoples-war/

Kalinaw News: PSWD-DSWD, Army Facilitate the Assessment of E-CLIP Enrollment of 13 New Surrenderees and Food Packs Distribution to Former Rebels

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): PSWD-DSWD, Army Facilitate the Assessment of E-CLIP Enrollment of 13 New Surrenderees and Food Packs Distribution to Former Rebels (By 29th Infantry Battalion)



DEL PILAR, Cabadbaran City- On 21 October 2020, the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and its provincial branch, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) facilitated the assessment for Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) enrollment of 13 new surrenderees and food packs distribution to a total of 36 former rebels and new surrenderees who have returned to the folds of the government. The former rebels are temporarily residing at the New Hope Village, 29th Infantry Battalion Headquarters.



The PSWD conducted the activity among the newly surrendered former rebels who are sheltered in the headquarters of 29IB, in preparation for the awarding of a permanent house and lot for each of them, training, seminars and assignment of their Pangkabuhayan location.

The event is pursuant to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70 that is, to attain inclusive and sustainable peace and to institutionalize the Whole-of-the-nation approach towards Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC). This government program gives the former rebels the chance to surrender to the folds of the government peacefully so that they can return to mainstream life.

The activity is in accordance with Administrative Order No. 10, Section 1: Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which seeks to provide a complete package of assistance to former rebels who were members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as well as their family members, who have surfaced beginning on the date of the effectivity of this Order and who express their desire to abandon armed struggle and become productive members of society.

Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB said, ” Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB said, “With this, we will be able to encourage the remaining members of the organization to surrender. Those who are still in the mountains descend and surrender because we, the servants of the government are here to help you to build a new life. We will help you to live peacefully and fruitfully. You should not hesitate to come and knock at the gate of 29IB because we will be glad to assist you, our fellow Filipino.”

[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/pswd-dswd-army-facilitate-the-assessment-of-e-clip-enrollment-of-13-new-surrenderees-and-food-packs-distribution-to-former-rebels/

Kalinaw News: NPA high-powered firearms, ammos seized in Davao Oriental after civilian tip-off

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): NPA high-powered firearms, ammos seized in Davao Oriental after civilian tip-off (By 66th Infantry Battalion)



DAVAO ORIENTAL — A civilian tip-off led to the discovery of high-powered firearm hidden by the communist NPA (New People’s Army) Terrorists (CNTs) in the hinterlands of Sitio Batobato in Davao Oriental on Saturday, Oct. 17.



Troops of the 66th Infantry Battalion discovered the high-powered firearm after a local resident tipped off the location of the arms cache in Tubaon village, Tarragona.

A combined military and police scoured the area and discovered the 5.56mm rifle and 20 cap magazine loaded with seven rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.

Col. Krisnamurti Mortela, the 701st Infantry brigade commander said the operation was in response to reports by concerned civilians in the area on the activities of the Communist NPA Terrorists and the discovery of the high-powered firearm.

Recovered materials were left by retreating forces of North Front under the Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC) last 2018.

Governor Nelson Dayanghirang said, “our people in the hinterlands are now becoming active in our campaign in totally ending the decades-long problem of communist armed conflict that hindered the development of their communities.”

Mayor Nestor L. Uy of Tarragona, Davao Oriental lauded the members of the AFP and PNP in their relentless efforts to end the local armed conflict.

“ I commend the troops of 66IB and PNP members of Davao Oriental Police Office for the successful conduct of their joint operations in my municipality,” Uy said.

Mortela expressed gratitude to the villagers who provided “positive and timely information to the government forces regarding the activities and concealed High-powered firearm and ammunition”.

“We are glad that the residents of Tubaon village willingly supported us in ending insurgency in conflict-affected areas,” he added.

Also, Lt Col. Roman Mabborang, the 66th IB commander, said that the successful operation was one of the positive outcomes of the recently launched “Oplan Tubaon” on October 15 in support to the President’s Executive Order 70 that envisions totally ending local communist armed conflict by facilitating the delivery of government services in vulnerable communities.

“With our concerted efforts, we are gaining back the trust of the people to the government,” Mabborang said. “It also means that the CNTs are losing mass support as the residents now shift their support to the government.”

He added that civilian tip-offs on the activities of the rebel prove that “they are already tired of the presence of NPAs in their areas.

[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/npa-high-powered-firearms-ammos-seized-in-davao-oriental-after-civilian-tip-off/

Kalinaw News: Army commemorates 'Sagay 9' incident

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): Army commemorates 'Sagay 9' incident (By 79th Infantry Battalion)



SAGAY CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – The Army’s 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion together with the Brgy Council of Brgy Bulanon and families of the massacre victims gathered together in a simple ceremony to commemorate the ‘Sagay 9’ massacre on Monday October 20, 2020 at Brgy Bulanon, Sagay City, Negros Occidental.





The fateful incident happened on the night of October 20, 2018, when a group of sugarcane farmers while eating dinner in a makeshift tent in a farm at Hda. Nene, Barangay Bulanon, Sagay City was attacked and fired upon by a number of armed men believed to be members of NPA, killing nine (9) famers including four (4) women and two (2) children.

The victims were identified as members of the National Federation of Sugarcane Workers (NFSW). This year, the Sagay 9 massacre was commemorated in a simple yet solemn ceremony attended by the barangay officials of Brgy Bulanon, members of the Philippine Army and the families of the massacre victims.

It includes a Peace Advocacy Symposium initiated by the troops of 79th IB to give awareness on the deceptive schemes of the communist terrorist group in recruiting and organizing unwary civilians for their evil interests. Pastor Hope Biasca of Trinity Fellowship Church also led a spiritual guidance to the families of the victims to enlighten their hearts and minds and to keep them away from being deceived and used by the left-leaning organizations whose evil purpose is to fuel hatred and disgust against the government.

Lieutenant Colonel Gerard T Alvaran, Commanding Officer of 79th IB said, “As we paid tribute to the innocent lives who were victimized by the communist terrorist and militant groups, let us work hand-in-hand so that this kind of incident will never happen again. We can’t afford to let this dark portion of history repeat itself in the future. We, your Philippine Army will continue to collaborate with the LGU and PNP to ensure the safety and well-being of our people.”

[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/army-commemorates-sagay-9-incident/

Kalinaw News: Army-PNP Joint Operations Discover Enemy Arms Cache, recovers multiple high-powered firearms

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): Army-PNP Joint Operations Discover Enemy Arms Cache, recovers multiple high-powered firearms (By 53rd Infantry Battalion)



Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur – Through the revelation of a newly-surrendered NPA rebel, the Army and Philippine National Police (PNP) discovered an enemy arms cache containing multiple high-powered firearms in a joint operations held on October 14, 2020 at the boundary of Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte and Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur.


Successfully recovered from the arms cache in the boundary of Sitio Madagas, Brgy Guibo, Siayan, ZDN and Sitio Pisio, Brgy Balonai, Midsalip, ZDS were two (2) AK-47 assault rifles with two (2) magazines and one (1) M16A1 assault rifle.

The operation was conducted by the joint elements of Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) and 1st Military Intelligence Battalion (1MIB); PNP’s 1st Zamboanga del Sur Police Mobile Force Company (1st ZSPMFC), Police Intelligence Unit-9, 902nd Mobile Company (MC) of Regional Mobile Force Battalion-9 (RMFB9), Regional Intelligence Unit-9, and Midsalip Municipal Police Station (MPS); National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-9 (NICA9); FS WESMIN; and 3012nd AISS, 301st SMG, PAF.

The said joint operations was a follow-up operations against the Communist-Terrorist Groups (CTGs), based on the result of the custodial debriefing to the newly surrendered personality of NPA’s Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU) of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

Accordingly, the CNT war materiel recovered belongs to the crumbling MRGU, WMRPC, following the apprehension of their commander, alias JOTHAM, last September 22. According to 53rd IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, the successful result of the joint operations is attributed to the harmonious relationship and convergence between the Army, PNP, and other friendly units.

Lt. Col. Herrera added that the revelation and cooperation of the newly-surrendered NPA is a proof that they also want to end the NPA’s 5-decade-long violence, terror, and extortion of the poor. The gained CNT war materials were immediately brought at 1st PMFC Stationed at Camp Abelon, Pagadian City for proper disposition and safekeeping.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-pnp-joint-operations-discover-enemy-arms-cache-recovers-multiple-high-powered-firearms/

Kalinaw News: 10-day emergency employment up for 41 FRs in AgNor

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): 10-day emergency employment up for 41 FRs in AgNor (By 23rd Infantry Battalion)



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Forty-One (41) Former Rebels(FRs) who are currently staying at the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion are now undergoing a 10-day Emergency Employment Program (EEP), also known as “Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced (TUPAD) Program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).







The EEP or TUPAD program for the forty-one (41) FRs started last October 14 and is set to be completed on Saturday, October 24, 2020.

The said program is undertaken by the 41 FRs at the headquarters of the 23rd IB located at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The TUPAD program is a community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and seasonal workers, for a minimum period of ten (10) days, but not to exceed a maximum of thirty (30) days, depending on the nature of work to be performed.

Under the program, the 41 FRs are presently involved in social and agro-forestry community projects such as repairs, maintenance, debris clearing, segregation and materials recovery, tree planting and seedling preparations.

The project is the result of the convergence of efforts of the 23rd IB and the DOLE Agusan del Norte with the aim of providing help and support for financial needs of the former combatants of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) who decided to change their lives by laying down their arms and returned to the mainstream society.

The program is also a big help to the daily financial needs of the FRs and their families especially during the time of the pandemic.

Alias Jack, is among the forty-one (41) FRs at the 23rd IB who benefited from the TUPAD program.

He expressed gratitude to the government and the Army for the support he received, saying that the wages he earned had helped sustain the needs of his family.

“Kani nga trabaho nga gipahigayon sa DOLE dako kaayo og natabang kanamo aron masustintohan ang inadlaw nga panghinanglanon sa akong pamilya,” Jack said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, 23IB Acting Commanding Officer, conveyed his gratitude to the DOLE, noting the importance of the ten ( 10)-day work given to the FRs and its impacts to their families.

“The 23IB, together with its partner agencies will always adhere to the promises of helping the FRs achieve a productive and progressive living with their families,” Paulo said.

He also emphasized the need to capacitate the FRs for them to be able to face the various economic challenges as they begin their renewed lives with their families.

“With the support of other line agencies through convergence, we can assure that the lives of the former CNT combatants will be improved through the different programs and services, such as the TUPAD program of DOLE,” Paulo said.

He also urged the remaining CNTs to look at the lives of their former comrades who now enjoy the full support of the government.

“There is no good future waiting for you in continuing to embrace the hopeless cause and ideology of the communist movement. While you continue to adhere to their false promises, its not only you who continue to suffer but also your families, especially the children. While you still have the precious time, abandon the CNT movement and go back to the folds of the law,” Paulo 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/10-day-emergency-employment-up-for-41-frs-in-agnor/

Kalinaw News: AFP Chief to Troops: Ensure proper, deliberate execution of Anti-Terrorism Law

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): AFP Chief to Troops: Ensure proper, deliberate execution of Anti-Terrorism Law (By PAO, AFP)



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Gilbert Gapay on Tuesday told troops to ensure proper and deliberate implementation of the recently passed Anti-Terrorism Law at all times.







“We know how this Law would greatly help us in building our confidence and poise in our operations. I am confident, and I know for a fact that every man and woman of the AFP is responsible, accountable, and objective enough to enforce this law,” said General Gapay.

The AFP Chief talked to the officers and enlisted personnel of the Central Command at Camp Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City as part of his continuing command visits. He was welcomed with military honors led by CENTCOM Commander Lieutenant General Roberto Ancan before having an executive session with the command’s key officers.

After a briefing on the area’s security situation and ongoing operations, the 54th AFP Chief of Staff addressed the men and women of the military’s stronghold in Visayas. He congratulated the soldiers for managing the situation in the area, especially Cebu which was hardly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While we continue to contribute and help in the national efforts to curb COVID-19, our main priority remains to be our triumph in eliminating Communist Terrorist Groups and Local Terrorist Groups, which makes sense, for our enemies are also taking advantage of these trying times to pursue their propaganda. We cannot let that happen. We must not let that happen,” he said.

CENTCOM has recorded a total of 533 surrenders of both regular members and supporters of communist terrorist groups from January 1 to October 15, 2020. It also reported 28 enemy fatalities and 74 apprehensions in legitimate combat operations during the period. Meanwhile, 173 high-powered and low-powered firearms, 75 improvised explosive devices, and 42 encampments were seized from the enemy.

“Let us work hard towards intensified operationalization of the Executive Order No. 70 for we already earned significant gains through this whole-of-nation approach. With the continuous involvement of the local government units, local communities, and other stakeholders, we can reach greater heights and yield more successes in this fight against insurgency,” General Gapay said.

The military is one of the agencies that compose the National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) which implements a whole-of-government approach towards achieving lasting peace and development for the country. While the AFP does combat operations to defeat communist terrorists and destroy its support system, relevant agencies are mandated to conduct programs and projects towards the unimpeded delivery of government’s basic services.

“With full trust and confidence, I am certain that Team CENTCOM, through the steadfast leadership of Lieutenant General Ancan, will continue to contribute and work not only for the good of our Armed Forces but most importantly, for the welfare and betterment of our nation and our people,” said General Gapay.

[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/afp-chief-to-troops-ensure-proper-deliberate-execution-of-anti-terrorism-law/

Kalinaw News: Milisyang Bayan Surrenders to Army, Reveals Arms Cache in Davao de Oro

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): Milisyang Bayan Surrenders to Army, Reveals Arms Cache in Davao de Oro (By 71st Infantry Battalion)



Mawab, Davao de Oro — The 71st Infantry “Kaibigan” Battalion discovers arms cache after the revelation of a milisyang bayan (MB) in Brgy. Libay-libay, Maco, Davao De Oro, today.




Alyas Toto, a former member of the milisyang bayan who surrendered yesterday to the Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) of Delta Company, 71IB which was immediately turned over to the headquarters of 71st IB revealed that a certain alyas Jeg, CO of Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2), SRC 2, SMRC, left in his custody three (3) high-powered firearms where he later divulge its location.

Upon the revelation of the location of the arms cache, immediately LTC Sonny E Gonzales tasked this unit’s Intelligence Officer to organize the Intel Operatives for a joint operation, composed of 71st IB, 101MICO, 1101st MFC RFMB of PNP whom proceeded to the area and captured one (1) AK47 rifle with one (1) magazine loaded with 24 7.62mm live ammo, one(1) M16 rifle with one (1) long and one (1) short magazines and one (1) M14 rifle with one (1) magazine loaded with 11 7.62mm live ammo.

The recovery of these firearms will have significant impact to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) as to the reduction of their firepower capability.

This recovery was a result of the effective Community Support Program (CSP) bridging government services to reach the far-flung areas or the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) where the people are now availing the various services of the government that was hampered before by the CTGs.

People get tired and fed up of the CTGs lies and deception, a number of UGMOs have turned their backs to these terrorists and decided to return to the mainstream.

Also, many red fighters are already low morale due to hardship,hunger and the relentless operations of the 71st IB that resulted to the influx of surrenderees and capture of their firearms. As of this writing, Kaibigan Battalion recorded 247 surrenderees, capture/recovered 20 high-powered firearms and 22 low-powered firearms and eight (8) IEDs.

“This turn of events have significantly affected the morale of the red fighters as most of them returned to the folds of the law and are now beneficiaries of the ECLIP and are now living peacefully with their families.” Lieutenant Colonel Sonny E Gonzales Commanding Officer of 71st IB said.

“I call on the remaining insurgents to lay their arms and live a harmonious and peaceful life. Truly, this manifests that EO70 or the Whole of Nation Approach is really working,” he added.

[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/milisyang-bayan-surrenders-to-army-reveals-arms-cache-in-davao-de-oro/

Kalinaw News: 5 former NPA rebels get ‘Negosyo Kits’ from DTI-Aurora

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): 5 former NPA rebels get ‘Negosyo Kits’ from DTI-Aurora (By 7ID)

2

BALER, Aurora-A total of 5 former New People’s Army rebels in this capital town of Aurora province are now busy with their new businesses through the PHP50,000-worth Negosyo Kits given by the Department of Trade and Industry, a top military official said on Monday.

The 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, Philippine Army under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Reandrew P Rubio Philippine Army said the former rebels received their livelihood assistance worth PHP10,000 each to finance their new businesses such as “mini sari-sari” store, and hog raising.

Lieutenant Colonel Reandrew P Rubio Philippine Army said that the former NPA members who received Negosyo Kits surrendered to the authorities in the past few months.

The 91st IB facilitated the Awarding of livelihood program of the DTI-Aurora under “Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginahawa” headed by Edna D. Dizon, Provincial Director to five (5) Former Rebels (FRs).

Former rebels received piglets with feeds and groceries for their mini sari-sari store held at Headquarters 91IB, Brgy. Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora on 19 October 2020.

The DTI-Aurora assisted the FRs and distribute Negosyo Kit as part of their program under “Pangkabuhayan sa Pangbangon at Ginhawa” to support the implementation of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The FRs will be monitored by the DTI and the agency will give them more assistance if their business will become successful and they need more help for expansion.

“We would like to thank DTI Aurora for the livelihood starter kit that benefited five (5) Former Rebels who recently surrendered to our unit. This is a classic example of a Whole-of-Nation Approach wherein all government agencies including private sectors are working hand-in-hand to address the root cause of insurgency and in support to the implementation of EO 70 End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” LTC RUBIO said.

The activity was also witnessed by representative from NCIP-Aurora, IPMR-Aurora headed by SP Member Hon Mary Jane Donato and the Battalion Comander of 307th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion MAJ EDWARD A PINEDA (RES) PA.



[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/5-former-npa-rebels-get-negosyo-kits-from-dti-aurora/

Kalinaw News: 6th ID Kicks-off 33rd Founding Anniversary through Sports Fest 2020

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 20, 2020): 6th ID Kicks-off 33rd Founding Anniversary through Sports Fest 2020 (By 6th Infantry Division)



CAMP Siongco, Maguindanao – The 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division formally opened the 33rd Foundation Anniversary through the Kampilan Sports Fest on October 16, 2020.




Maj. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of 6th ID and Joint Task Force Central, led the opening of the Sports Fest which aims to showcase the sportsmanship and to strengthen the camaraderie and esprit-de-corps of personnel both organic and operational controlled units.

Col. Michael Santos, Chief of Staff gave his welcomed address during the said program while Lt. Col. Clairemont Pinpin, Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, OG1 presented the competing teams followed by the oath of sportsmanship led by Maj. Gregorio Jose III, Division Special Service Officer.

Teams were grouped by colors; the Green Team (Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, Division Training School, Service and Service Support Battalion, 6th CMO Battalion, 6th Military Intelligence Battalion and 6th Division CAA Cafgu Active Auxiliary Affairs Unit), Brown Team (601st Infantry Brigade, 7th Infantry Battalion, 40th Infantry Battalion, 5th Special Forces Battalion, Task Force Talakudong and 61st Division Reconnaissance Company), Yellow Team (602nd Brigade, 34th Infantry Battalion, 90 Infantry Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Battalion and 62nd Division Reconnaissance Company), White Team (603rd Brigade, 6th Infantry Battalion, 37th Infantry Battalion, 38th Infantry Battalion, Task Force Gensan and 63rd Division Reconnaissance Company), Gray Team (1st Mechanized Brigade, 1st Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Battalion, 3rd Cavalry Company, 33rd Infantry Battalion and 57th Infantry Battalion), Red Team (1st Marine Brigade, 2nd Marine Battalion Landing Team and 5th Marine Battalion Landing Team) and Blue Team (Tactical Operation Group 12, 549 Engineering Battalion, 12 Finance Service Field Office, 6th Field Artillery Battalion, 12 Forward Service Support Unit and 12 Regional community Defense Group).

Sports fest is the traditional event during the celebration of the founding anniversary of the command to give a timeout from the very hectic and regimented life of the soldiers and the human resource of 6th ID. However, due to the pandemic, the command decided to only play two sports event, the baseball and softball to avoid physical contact.

“As we keep ourselves busy with our work and daily routine, we also need to reenergize, gain strength and get ready for another year of sustaining selfless service for the people of Central Mindanao through organized Sports,” Major. Gen. Juvymax R. Uy, said during his message.

“Ika nga sa isa pang kasabihan, all work with no play makes a dull boy. Kinakailangan pa rin ng konting break sa opisina at mag-enjoy kasama ang bawat isa kasabay ng pagtataguyod ng maayos na panunungkulan sa ating kapwa mamamayan”, Maj. Gen. Uy added.

[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/6th-id-kicks-off-33rd-founding-anniversary-through-sports-fest-2020/

Kalinaw News: Brigadier General Teofilo takes over as Joint Task Force-NCR Command

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 21, 2020): Brigadier General Teofilo takes over as Joint Task Force-NCR Commander



CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City – Brigadier General Marceliano V. Teofilo formally assumed command of the Joint Task Force – National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) in a Change of Command Ceremony on October 20 at the AFP Commissioned Officer’s Country Club.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Gilbert I. Gapay presided over the ceremony that officially transferred the JTF-NCR command from Brigadier General Alex DC Luna to BGen. Teofilo.

The Joint Task Force-NCR is assigned to combat terrorism and insurgency in the area. It also acts as a support unit to the Philippine National Police in securing peace and order within Metro Manila.

“Considering JTF-NCR’s focus on preventing NPAs and other terrorist groups from operating and bringing their influence in Metro Manila, BGen. Teofilo’s experiences in various units of the ISAFP will be utilized to further intensify intelligence and counter-intelligence operations of this command,” General Gapay said.

BGen. Teofilo previously held positions in 203rd Brigade, 2ID as Commander and 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division as Assistant Division Commander. He also served as the Commander of Joint Task Force Taal where he led response efforts during Taal Volcano’s eruption early this year.

General Gapay also praised the outgoing JTF-NCR Commander BGen. Luna. “BGen. Luna’s outstanding leadership enabled JTF-NCR to attain achievements worthy of our country’s acknowledgement and appreciation,” General Gapay stated.

During BGen. Luna’s stint as Commander, the JTF-NCR stepped up as one of the implementers of strict health protocols against COVID-19. They have also assisted the NCR Police Office by ensuring the safety of foreign delegates and venues during the Southeast Asian Games 2019. JTF-NCR also took an active part in crippling Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operations through the newly-created Joint Intelligence Task Group.

“I therefore urge the entire TEAM JTF-NCR to give your all-out support to your new commander and together, as a team, you will surely surpass every challenge presented before you and bring honor to the AFP and our whole nation,” General Gapay 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/brigadier-general-teofilo-takes-over-as-joint-task-force-ncr-commander/