Mamasapano clash: Quezon City honors SAF ground commander

From the Philippine Star (Dec 20, 2022): Mamasapano clash: Quezon City honors SAF ground commander (By Elizabeth Marcelo)

Police commandos salute in a ceremony honoring the SAF 44 during the National Day of Remembrance at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig yesterday. Forty-four members of the Special Action Force were killed in a clash with MILF fighters in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015 following an operation against terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, who was slain in the raid.  Krizjohn Rosales

MANILA, Philippines — The People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) of the Quezon City government yesterday conferred its first ever “Bayani ng Bayan” award on the ground commander of the police troopers who carried out the Jan. 25, 2015 Mamasapano operation, which led to the death of Malaysian terrorist and bomb expert Zulkifli Bin Hir, also known as Marwan.

Mayor Joy Belmonte and PLEB executive officer Rafael Calinisan presented the award to Lt. Col. Raymund Train of the police Special Action Force (SAF) for his courage and gallantry.

Train was the ground commander of the SAF team that carried out Oplan Exodus, an operation that neutralized Marwan and Filipino bomb maker Abdul Basit Usman.

Marwan, at the time, was wanted in four countries – Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and the United States – and carried a $5-million bounty on his head from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and P7.4 million from the Philippine government.

Marwan was killed during the operation, but the SAF troops were overpowered in a firefight with the combined forces of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

The clash resulted in the death of over 60 people, including 44 SAF members.

Train, who has kept a low profile since the Mamasapano clash, received the PLEB award during flag-raising rites at city hall yesterday.

“It took us more than a year to convince him to receive this award. All these years, Lt. Col. Train has chosen to be anonymous and under the radar. It is about time that we share his story to the public to inspire patriotism in every Filipino,” Calinisan said.

Belmonte said Train should be emulated not only by police officers, but by all Filipino citizens.

“We should strive to be like him: selfless service beyond the call of duty. I am one with the citizens of Quezon City in conferring this award on him. This award is given so that his heroism will never be forgotten,” the mayor said.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/12/20/2231975/mamasapano-clash-quezon-city-honors-saf-ground-commander

NPA owns up burning of trucks in Negros town

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 19, 2022): NPA owns up burning of trucks in Negros town (By Glazyl Masculino)

BACOLOD CITY — The Roselyn Jean Pelle Command–Northern Negros Guerilla Front of the New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) has claimed the burning of two trucks owned by a landowner in Toboso, Negros Occidental last week.

In a statement, Cecil Estrella, RJPC-NPA spokesperson, said the group’s action was a call for sugarcane workers to fight back against exploitation and for residents to fight back against militarization and rights abuses.

At least eight unidentified armed men gathered the workers in one area before burning the engines of the two trucks, leaving P600,000 worth of damage at Sitio Proper, Barangay Tabun-ac on Dec. 14.

The group accused the landowner allegedly for the unjust wages of the workers, using armed goons for threat and intimidation, and land grabbing, among others.

According to the group, they are not interested in subjecting the landowner’s business operation to collection of revolutionary tax due to alleged complaints on labor issues, land disputes, and his counter-revolutionary nature.

https://mb.com.ph/2022/12/19/npa-owns-up-burning-of-trucks-in-negros-town/

Joma’s death won’t end insurgency in PH, says ex-GPH peace negotiator; CPP rejects holiday truce

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PHL communists won’t declare holiday ceasefire

From Business World Online (Dec 19, 2022): PHL communists won’t declare holiday ceasefire (By Kyle Aristophere T. Atienza)

ARMED members of the Philippine communist movement will not declare a ceasefire with government forces this holiday season, citing alleged threats to local communities.

“There is absolutely no reason to declare a ceasefire to mark the holidays and the upcoming 54th Party anniversary,” the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said in a statement on Monday.

The CPP said its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), may launch tactical offensives against state forces who continue to operate in areas where there are business projects being opposed by local communities.

It cited mining operations, expansion of plantations, and foreign-funded infrastructure projects including dams and roads, among others.

The communist leadership also cited violations of human rights and international humanitarian law allegedly committed by state forces.

“The Central Committee, hereby, directs the NPA to actively fight and frustrate the AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines’) campaign of armed suppression,” it said.

On Dec. 13, AFP spokesperson Medel M. Aguilar said they would likely declare a suspension of offensive military operations and “move to active defense, especially in areas where the insurgents are already weak.”

“We pray that the insurgents will also be allowed to go to their families and think about their future,” he told reporters, based on a report published by state-run Philippine News Agency.

The Philippine government under former president Rodrigo R. Duterte pushed peace talks with the Maoist movement in 2016, with Norway hosting the negotiations.

But the talks did not last long, with Mr. Duterte and his military officials citing attacks by NPA rebels. Negotiators representing the communist movement had belied Mr. Duterte’s claims.

The NPA has been waging one of the world’s longest-running insurgencies. It had significantly expanded across the impoverished country under the late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, whose son clinched a remarkable victory in the 2022 presidential election.

State officials have intensified their calls for NPA members to surrender to the government after the death on Dec. 16 of CPP’s founding chairman, Jose Maria Sison, who had been living in exile in the Netherlands since 1987, or a year after the older Marcos’ two-decade rule was ended by a popular uprising backed by members of the military establishment.

NEW THREATS

The AFP marked its 87th anniversary on Monday, with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. reiterating his commitment to modernize the country’s armed forces.

“The armed forces needs to have in its arsenal the capabilities to effectively combat threats and to secure the country — all its more than 7,000 islands and all its features,” Mr. Marcos said in a speech at the AFP anniversary event.

The president called the Maoist rebels “terrorist” and said they “hamper the delivery of government services and infrastructure development.”

The Philippine leader, meanwhile, said there are new security challenges that do “not recognize borders”

“We must continue to work with our neighbors, our allies, partners, and friends to address mutual security concerns.”

He said climate change-related disasters are among the security challenges that the AFP need to confront.

“Apart from climate change-related disasters, we are now confronted with a different and complex security environment, it brings with it new challenges that require us to adapt.” 

https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2022/12/19/494048/phl-communists-wont-declare-holiday-ceasefire/

Bulatlat: CPP declares 10 days of mourning for Joma Sison

From the pro-CCPP/NPA/NDF online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Dec 18, 2022): CPP declares 10 days of mourning for Joma Sison (By Raymund Villanueva)

Photo by Nwel Saturay

MANILA — The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) called on its members and supporters to dedicate their upcoming 54th anniversary celebrations to the memory of its founding chairperson Jose Maria Sison who died last Friday in The Netherlands.

In a statement, the CPP’s Central Committee said it will dedicate its anniversary celebrations to their leader’s memory, “to celebrate his life and all the victories that we have achieved under his leadership and guidance.”

The CPP also declared the 10 days since Sison’s passing to their founding anniversary on December 26 as a period of mourning for the entire Party in order to give the “highest possible tribute” to him.

In a statement Saturday, the CPP declared Sison as the “greatest hero of the Filipino people in their past century of resistance against imperialism.”

“His immense contributions to shaping the patriotic and revolutionary consciousness of the Filipino people and breaking open the path towards national and social liberation will never be erased,” the group said.

The revolutionary party likewise ordered all units of the New People’s Army (NPA) to stand in formation at the break of dawn of December 26 and silently perform a 21-gun salute for Sison, “by way of giving the highest tribute and bidding farewell to our beloved leader.”

The group added that the NPA can stage tactical offensives against the military as part of the celebrations.

The CPP announced Sison’s death last Saturday, saying the 83-year old founding chairperson had been confined in a Dutch hospital before his passing.

‘Highest possible tribute’

The revolutionary group said it grieves the loss of a great leader who masterfully and creatively applied Marxism-Leninism-Maoism in launching and leading the national democratic revolution in the Philippines, one of the oldest armed revolutions in the world.

Sison gave the Filipino people the strength to carve the country’s future and attain their aspirations for national freedom and democracy, it added.

“The Central Committee and the entire Party will forever be guided and inspired by Ka Joma’s immortal revolutionary spirit,” it said.

An English professor in various Philippine universities and a labor union organizer before leading the re-establishment of the CPP in 1968, Sison authored more than 30 volumes of essays and poetry the CPP describes as a “rich and deep Marxist-Leninist-Maoist treasure trove.”

He was awarded the South East Asia WRITE Award for his poetry in 1986.

Under the name Amado Guerrero, Sison authored Philippine Society and Revolution that generations of Filipino activists and revolutionaries regard as one the greatest Filipino books ever written.

“We affirm as well the important role that Ka Joma played as a Marxist-Leninist-Maoist torch bearer who helped inspire the proletariat across the world and keep the embers of the international communist movement as it enters a new phase of resurgence,” the CPP said. Reposted by

https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/12/18/cpp-declares-10-days-of-mourning-for-joma-sison/

Bulatlat: #KaJomaLives | Progressives mourn the passing of Joma Sison, vow to continue the struggle for genuine change

From the pro-CCPP/NPA/NDF online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Dec 19, 2022): #KaJomaLives | Progressives mourn the passing of Joma Sison, vow to continue the struggle for genuine change (By AIRA MARIE SIGUENZA)

Photo of Jose Maria Sison in a 2016 forum

MANILA – #KaJomaLives was trending on social media recently as individuals and groups take to social media their tribute to Jose Maria “Joma” Sison, founding chairperson of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Progressive groups and individuals released statements and testimonies paying homage to the late revolutionary by using the hashtag #KaJomaLives. They shared his contributions to the struggle of the Filipino people.

The passing of Sison was announced by CPP’s newsletter, Ang Bayan (The People), on Friday, December 16, stating that he was confined for two weeks in a hospital in The Netherlands, where he was exiled since 1988.

Read: Joma Sison dies, CPP announces

In 1969, Sison co-founded the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed revolutionary group who is at the forefront of one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies. He was also the chief political consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

A revolutionary for the masses

“The Great Teacher and guide for the national democratic struggle” — this is how the youth group Anakbayan described Sison. The group narrated Sison’s class origin as a son of a wealthy family from Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman. Even though he was part of the upper class, he chose a life less traveled by giving their land to the peasants and joining the struggles of the farmers and workers.

In 1964, he established the Kabataang Makabayan (KM), which became the leading group that led various demonstrations during the First Quarter Storm under then dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s Martial Law.

“Ka Joma is a revolutionary… He was once a youth like us who durst to advance the struggle for real liberation and democracy. He practiced the theory of Marxism, Leninism, and Maoism, which strengthened the people’s fight,” said Anakbayan in a statement.

The national progressive center of unions, federations, associations, and organizations of agricultural workers in the Philippines, Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA) Pilipinas, also highlighted how it is right and just to give tribute and treat Sison as a hero.

According to UMA Pilipinas, the toiling masses easily grasped Sison’s societal analysis, especially in politics and economy that directly affects the agricultural workers.

“The root of the people’s war is the massive hunger perched on the peasant’s landlessness. In Ka Joma’s fight for genuine agrarian reform, he aspired to end haciendas and plantations, land monopoly, and hunger that the peasants are experiencing.”

Workers group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) also expressed their grieving, and recalled Sison’s contribution to teaching the theory of socialism and the essential role of workers in leading the struggle.

“We treat comrade Joma as a worker… he devoted himself to the proletarian class. He aroused, organized, and lived with the workers. He was indulged in the pickets, discussions, and everyday struggles of the laborers,” said KMU in a statement.

Before his death, Sison was the chairperson emeritus of the International League of Peoples’ Struggles (ILPS), a global organization that coordinates anti-imperialist and democratic movements.

ILPS Indonesia expressed its indebtedness to Sison’s “high dedication to revolution.” According to the international group, “The Indonesian people, especially those who are awakened and organized in the ILPS and the Front Perjuangan Rakyat (FPR), together with the oppressed and exploited people of the whole world, owe a great debt to Ka Joma, the theory and practice he obtained through bitterness and sacrifice while he lived is second to none.”

‘Not the end’

For Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN), Sison’s passing does not mean the end of the decade-long revolution as the “seeds of resistance have already been planted, and these will continue to grow wherever oppression and injustice exist.”

The group added that Sison’s life should lead the people to look hard at the societal ills that Sison fought against. “The cause of just peace can only be attained if the roots of the armed conflict are finally addressed. We know for a fact, that in the face of widespread repression and exploitation, the people will continue to fight, by all means necessary, until they are free,” said BAYAN.

The CPP has also affirmed that the revolution will persist even amid Sison’s passing, encouraging the members and supporters to let the revolutionary spirit of Sison live on. “Even as we mourn, we vow to continue to give all our strength and determination to carry the revolution forward guided by the memory and teachings of the people’s beloved Ka Joma.”

This December 26, the CPP will celebrate its 54th Anniversary, which they called as a time dedicated to the memory of its founding chairperson.

Read: CPP declares 10 days of mourning for Joma Sison

The CPP has also declared ten days of mourning as the “highest possible tribute” to Sison. Aside from this, they added that the New People’s Army would stage tactical offensives against the military as part of the tribute.

https://www.bulatlat.com/2022/12/19/kajomalives-progressives-mourn-the-passing-of-joma-sison-vow-to-continue-the-struggle-for-genuine-change/

Without Joma Sison, CPP-NPA is weakened, and rebels lose motivation – AFP exec

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 19, 2022): Without Joma Sison, CPP-NPA is weakened, and rebels lose motivation – AFP exec (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) acting spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar /Photo from AFPCMOS Facebook

MANILA, Philippines —The death of Jose Ma. Sison, the founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), has been described by an AFP official as a devastating setback for the communist insurgency, with the suggestion that combatants and supporters of the underground movement will now lose their “sense of purpose.”

Col. Medel Aguilar, the spokesman for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said on Monday at the Laging Handa Public Briefing that without Sison, the CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), would be stumbling, leading to low morale among the underground members.

CPP confirmed last Saturday that Sison, founder of the CPP and one of the country’s literary minds during the martial law era, died while in exile in the Netherlands on Friday. He was confined for two weeks at a hospital before his death.

“Of course, it will further weaken the underground mass organization, as what they claim that Jose Ma. Sison, his death itself and guiding light, this means that they will also lose their sense of purpose, their direction, and therefore would make it to demoralization among its members, disintegration, and hopefully to the end of armed struggle,” Medel said.

Aguilar said it would be hard for the CPP to find a new leader of Sison’s quality and charisma, especially since most senior leaders have been neutralized.

“I think the problem is within the organization. Could (it) find a new leader of this quality? For us, it is an opportunity to engage their leaders in the tactical level so we can have peace at the tactical (level), among our communities,” Aguilar claimed

“It’s for the CPP to decide, to look for his replacement. But none of the remaining leaders, because many of them have been neutralized, are [of] the same quality as Sison. So that’s a big problem now for the underground organization,” he added.

INQUIRER.net has sought the CPP’s side on Aguilar’s claims but no reply yet as of posting time.

Regarding where the CPP founder’s remains would be laid to rest, Aguilar said the military does not want to speculate, saying that it depends on the decision of the immediate family of Sison.

“We cannot speculate yet on what the decision of the immediate family [is]. Maybe we should ask them first where they want to bury the remains of Professor Sison,” he noted.

Sison, who launched what is now one of the world’s longest-running insurgencies during the late 1960s, was in the Netherlands after being unable to return to the country. He was 83.

The CPP founder’s family said the funeral and interment details would be announced later, possibly bringing home his remains or ashes according to the late revolutionary leader’s wishes.

Sison’s death came just 10 days before the CPP marks its 54th anniversary on December 26.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1706782/afp-exec-joma-sisons-death-weakens-cpp-npa-rebels-lose-sense-of-purpose

CPP/NPA-Quezon: Hinggil sa Insurgency-free na ang bayan ng Macalelon

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Dec 19, 2022): Hinggil sa Insurgency-free na ang bayan ng Macalelon (With regard to the town of Macalelon being Insurgency-free)

 


Cleo del Mundo

Spokesperson

NPA-Quezon (Apolonio Mendoza Command)

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

December 19, 2022

Nagpapatawa ang 85th IBPA, PNP-Quezon kasama ang LGU ng Macalelon matapos nilang ideklara noong Disyembre 13 na “insurgency-free” o wala nang presensya ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa bayan ng Macalelon.

Pinangunahan ni Lt. Col. Joel Jonson ng 85th IBPA, Col. Ledon Monte ng PNP-Quezon at Mayor Artemio Mamburao ang pagpirma sa memorandum of understanding (MOU) ng nasabing deklarasyon.

Nangangahulugan itong may pabuya na hinihintay ang mga sundalo, pulis at lokal na pamahalaan para paghati-hatian.

Nangangahulugan din lamang na ibinubukas at inihahanda ang naturang bayan sa posibleng pagpasok ng negosyo at proyekto na pumapabor sa naghaharing-uri sa lalawigan. Kung gayon, wala nang makakapigil sa tuloy-tuloy na pagsasaayos ng dambuhalang dam sa Barangay Vista Hermosa na posibleng magpalubog sa bayan sakaling magkaroon ng aberya sa konstruksyon at operasyon nito kapag nayari na.

Nuknukan ng sinungaling si Lt.Col Jonson sa pagsasabing wala nang aktibidad ang NPA sa Macalelon.

O ang 59IBPA ba na dating may saklaw sa lugar ang tunay na bulaan? Inaamin na ba ng 85IBPA na pekeng balita ang malagim na pangyayari noong ika-15 ng Nobyembre, 2021 nang walang-awang pinagbabaril ang mag-asawang Jenna Oreviana at Rodel Llames matapos silang ituring na mga NPA ng 59th IB. Nagresulta ito sa pagkamatay ng kabayo ng mag-asawa na tinamaan ng bala. Nangyari ang insidente sa Sityo Batolinao, Barangay San Jose.

Kung aabot na ng isang taong walang aktibidad ang NPA sa bayan, kaninong pugad o kuta ang natagpuan nila sa Barangay Vista Hermosa noong Enero 6, 2022?

Ayon sa pahayag mismo ng 85th IB sa kanilang FB Page, “Ang naturang lugar ay palaging pinagpupugaran ng mga teroristang grupo dahil sa malalim na ugnayan nito kung saan noong unang panahon pa ay may matibay na koneksyon ang mga grupo sa kanilang mga naorganisa at mga nalinlang na mamamayan sa kanayunan ng nasabing barangay.”

Sino ang mas sinungaling sa 59IB at 85IB? Hindi dapat bilihin ng mga mamahayag at taumbayan ang balitang ito. ###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/hinggil-sa-insurgency-free-na-ang-bayan-ng-macalelon/

CPP/Central Committee: Resist relentless and brutal state terrorism as we mark holidays and the Party’s anniversary

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Dec 19, 2022): Resist relentless and brutal state terrorism as we mark holidays and the Party’s anniversary

 

This article is available in Pilipino

Central Committee

Communist Party of the Philippines

December 19, 2022

There is absolutely no reason to declare a ceasefire to mark the holidays and the upcoming 54th Party anniversary as the US-Marcos regime and its fascist Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continue with their relentless state terrorism and armed suppression against the Filipino people.

Combat troops of the AFP continue to be deployed to communities of peasants and national minorities and subject civilians suspected of supporting the New People’s Army to brutal suppression.

Even now, hundreds of villages are placed under military control (hamlet) where people are restricted when to buy rice or work in their fields, where soldiers raid homes, unjustly arrest, torture and willfully kill people, and drop bombs, fire rockets, and shell communities, farms and forests, which terrorize civilians.

The AFP, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), is now in a fascist frenzy as they desperately try to crush the people’s armed resistance. There are rampant violations of human rights and international humanitarian law which have intensified in the past three years. These include violations of child rights and special protections, where children are being killed in AFP-perpetrated massacres and indiscriminate firing, or kidnapped and taken hostage for merely being children of suspected revolutionaries.

The AFP’s campaign of armed suppression against the people covers scores of provinces including Abra, Kalinga, Isabela, Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Tarlac, Bulacan, Rizal, Zambales, Quezon, Batangas, Mindoro, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Albay, Masbate, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, across the Panay island, Northern Samar, East Samar, Samar, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, the Davao provinces, Sultan Kudarat and many others.

State terrorism is most intense in areas where there are mining operations, expansion of plantations, foreign-funded infrastructure projects including dams and roads, and other big business operations that are being opposed by local communities because these will take away their land and destroy the natural resource on which they rely upon.

This campaign of violent armed suppression is being obscured by a campaign of disinformation where thousands upon thousands of people are being misrepresented as “rebel surrenderees” in the AFP’s desperation to make it appear that their brutal war is “winning.”

In the face of the relentless attacks and brutalities by the AFP, and amid the sharp deterioration of the socioeconomic conditions of the people, it is the duty of the NPA to come to the people’s armed defense, even during these holidays.

The Central Committee, hereby, directs the New People’s Army (NPA) through its National Operational Command (NOC) and Regional and Subregional Operational Commands (ROCs and SROCs), to actively fight and frustrate the AFP’s campaign of armed suppression.

As we join the people in solidarity with their holidays and in marking the 54th anniversary of the Party on December 26, and even as we mourn the recent passing away of our beloved comrade Jose Ma. Sison, the NPA is authorized to launch tactical offensives against the fascist enemy of the people. Units of the NPA can concentrate a superior force against the isolated, weak, and tired units of the AFP and PNP, in order to punish the masterminds and perpetrators of the growing number of fascist crimes.

The NPA must demonstrate in a concentrated form the people’s outrage against the AFP and political repression, socioeconomic oppression and national treachery under the US-Marcos regime, and strengthen their determination to fight back against state terrorism and carry forward their revolutionary struggles.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/resist-relentless-and-brutal-state-terrorism-as-we-mark-holidays-and-the-partys-anniversary/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: Ka Joma lives on in every victory achieved in the national democratic revolution until the ultimate goal of communism

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Dec 18, 2022): Ka Joma lives on in every victory achieved in the national democratic revolution until the ultimate goal of communism

 


Bayani Obrero

Spokesperson

NDF-Negros Island

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

December 18, 2022

We, the revolutionary forces in Negros, render the highest tribute to Communist Party of the Philippines’ founder, Comrade Jose Maria Sison (then known as Ka Amado Guerrero), who passed away last December 16 at 83 years old. We thank Ka Joma and all revolutionary martyrs and heroes deeply for their selfless service to the people and the revolution.

We express our sympathies to his family and friends, especially Comrade Juliet de Lima and their children, to the entire revolutionary forces in the country, and the exploited and oppressed Filipino people whom Ka Joma greatly cherished. We all mourn the death of a great communist thinker, leader, teacher, internationalist, and guide of the Filipino proletariat.

The imperialists and local reactionaries will keep prating that the CPP and revolutionary movement will now crumble and armed revolution will cease because of Ka Joma’s demise. Our class enemies overlook the fact that Ka Joma’s legacy is deathless and burns in every Filipino revolutionary. His vast contributions to the Philippine revolution and the international communist movement will reverberate in every victory achieved in the national democratic revolution until the ultimate goal of communism.

We, Negrosanon revolutionaries inflamed by the everlasting inspiration from Ka Joma and all revolutionary martyrs and heroes, declare our collective resolve to defeat the current US-Marcos II regime. With all Filipino proletarian revolutionaries, we will carry out the new democratic and socialist stages of the Philippine revolution in order to contribute to the resurgence, advance and ultimate victory of the world proletarian revolution.

Hail the glorious contributions of Comrade Jose Maria Sison!
Carry forward through protracted people’s war the national democratic stage of the Philippine revolution!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/ka-joma-lives-on-in-every-victory-achieved-in-the-national-democratic-revolution-until-the-ultimate-goal-of-communism/

CPP/NDF-National Council: Statement of the NDFP National Council on the passing of beloved Comrade Jose Maria “Ka Joma” Sison

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Dec 17, 2022): Statement of the NDFP National Council on the passing of beloved Comrade Jose Maria “Ka Joma” Sison

 


National Council

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

December 17, 2022

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines National Council renders its highest tribute and salute to Comrade Jose Maria “Joma” Sison – great proletarian internationalist, patriot, communist, revolutionary leader, teacher and poet, who passed away after a lingering illness December 16, 2022 in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

As Founding Chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), Ka Joma led in the establishment of the NDFP on April 24, 1973, and in further building the broad national united front by inspiring the basic sectors of peasants, workers, students, women, indigenous people, church people and professionals to form their own revolutionary mass organizations and become members of the NDFP. Together with the CPP, the New People’s Army, and Ka Joma’s leadership, the NDFP has been able to help advance the people’s democratic revolution, and build the people’s organs of political power.

The NDFP-NC will forever cherish Ka Joma’s wisdom, guidance and inspiration in revolutionary united front work, and vow to build and further strengthen the People’s Democratic Government until the total seizure of political power and finally establish the Peoples’ Democratic Republic of the Philippines.

We vow to remain steadfast and uncompromising in firmly pursuing the armed revolution to free the Filipino toiling masses from the shackles of imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism.

We send and express our deepest condolences to his wife, Comrade Julie de Lima, his children, grandchildren, friends and close comrades.

Ka Joma Lives!

Advance the People’s War to Achieve National Freedom and Democracy!
Victory to the People’s Democratic Revolution!
Long Live the People’s United Front!
Long Live International Solidarity!

In behalf of the NDFP National Council,
Luis Jalandoni
Member, NDFP National Council

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/statement-of-the-ndfp-national-council-on-the-passing-of-beloved-comrade-jose-maria-ka-joma-sison/

Kalinaw News: CPP-NPA Terrorists Detonate Anti-Personnel Mines (APM) vs. Six (6) Army Troops

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 19, 2022): CPP-NPA Terrorists Detonate Anti-Personnel Mines (APM) vs. Six (6) Army Troops



CAMP SUMOROY, CATARMAN, Northern Samar –CPP-NPA Local communist terrorists ambushed elements of the 20th (We Lead) Battalion conducting the Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Program (MCSSP) using Anti-Personnel Mine (APM) in Brgy. Quirino, Las Navas, Northern Samar this morning at 05:30 a.m 18 December 2022.

The atrocity was perpetrated by the terrorist group belonging to the Front Committee 15 of Sub-Regional Committee “Arctic” of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee led by alias Tara, that resulted to six (6) Army troopers, from suffering from superfluous wounds and injuries.

Barangay Quirino is among the seven (7) recipient barangays in Las Navas, Northern Samar funded under Local Government Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP) 2022 as part of the National Task Force-ELCAC Program. Brgy. Quirino was set to receive a Water System Project after the groundbreaking ceremony at Brgy. Magsaysay on December 16, 2022.

It can be recalled that the same terrorist group conducted a series of attacks using Anti-Personnel Mines against government troops, on April 03, 2022, the CNTs used APMs against CSP Teams of the 20IB while the troops were moving back to Barangay Osang, Catubig, Northern Samar at vicinity Brgy. San Miguel, Las Navas, Northern Samar, which resulted to the death of two (2) PNP Personnel and injuries to four (4) others. Another APM incident happened at Brgy. Magsaysay, Mapanas, Northern on July 05, 2022 which injured seven (7) Army Personnel and on July 19, 2022, one (1) soldier died and five other troopers were wounded after communist terrorist attack using APMS in Brgy Osang, Catubig, Northern Samar.

Col Perfecto P Peñaredondo (Inf) MNSA PA, 803rd Brigade Commander, vehemently condemned the CPP-NPA terrorists for their flagrant violation on the use of banned APM. He urged the community and the LGUs to condemn this dastardly act of the NPA terrorists that continuously violate Human Rights, the Ottawa Convention, the International Humanitarian Law and RA9851.

He added that the leadership of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), as the self-proclaimed organizational representative of the NPA, should be held liable for not making genuine efforts to stop the NPA, its armed wing, from the continuing production, stockpile, transport, and use of crudely manufactured APM that also pose danger to the people in the communities.

Meanwhile, the 803rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade transported the casualties utilizing one (1) unit of Sikorski S70i (Blackhwak) to Eastern Visayas Medical Center for further medical treatment. The Commander of JTF-STORM and 8ID Commander, MGEN CAMILO Z LIGAYO PA is set to award the wounded personnel medal to the six (6) Stormtroopers as soon as their medical conditions stabilize.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. e-mail: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com

https://www.kalinawnews.com/cpp-npa-terrorists-detonate-anti-personnel-mines-apm-vs-six-6-army-troops/

6 soldiers injured by anti-personnel mine in Las Navas, Northern Samar

From Rappler (Dec 19, 2022): 6 soldiers injured by anti-personnel mine in Las Navas, Northern Samar



Attack happens in one barangay with development projects under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), after 'clearing' area of communist influence

Six members of the 20th Infantry Battalion were injured by an anti-personnel mine believed triggered by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Quirino village in Las Navas, Northern Samar, the Armed Forces’ Visayas Command (VISCOM) said on Monday, December 19.

The military statement said the wounded troops were securing the implementation of the water system project in the said barangay when the attack occurred.

Army Major General Benedict Arevalo, the Acting Commander of VISCOM, condemned the attack as a sign of the NPA’s “willful neglect [of] the safety of the community and the people who might be affected by the blast of these prohibited devices.”

“Our response to this incident will be swift and resolute. Rest assured that the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” Arevalo said.

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The Visayas Command said Barangay Quirino is one of the seven barangays in Las Navas, Northern Samar, that had received development projects, including the Level II Water System Project, under the Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

These projects are often given to local government units that claim to have met the military’s call of “clearing” villages of communist influence.

A rebel attack on a village in Jipapad, Eastern Samar, that had declared guerrillas as persona non grata killed two soldiers and injured a child in October 2022 and led to a military probe.

Communist rebel spokespersons have previously said the use of a command-detonated device is not a violation of international humanitarian law.

But similar rebel attacks have injured or killed civilians, like union leader Nolven Absalon and his cousin Kieth, former UAAP football juniors most valuable player, who died in Masbate in June 2021.

In 2014, the rebels apologized for attacking members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), Red Cross Davao del Sur chapter, medics, and troops on their way to evacuate wounded soldiers in Davao del Sur.

United Nations human rights chief Michelle Bachelet on November 29 expressed concern about “the widespread use of improvised explosive devices that function as anti-personnel landmines,” and cited the NPA among the groups using these.

Under the Ottawa Convention or Mine Ban Treaty, the production, stockpile, transport, and use of anti-personnel mines is prohibited.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/visayas/injuries-anti-personnel-blast-las-navas-northern-samar-december-2022/

Resupply mission to Ayungin “allowed but warned” by Chinese Coast Guard not to bring construction materials

From the Palawan News (Dec 18, 2022): Resupply mission to Ayungin “allowed but warned” by Chinese Coast Guard not to bring construction materials (By Gerald Ticke)

The inset photo shows a China Coast Guard vessel shadowing the recent resupply mission of the Western Command in Ayungin Shoal.

Personnel of Western Command conducted another resupply mission to troops assigned at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, under shadowing and radio challenges from a China Coast Guard vessel, and several other militia vessels loitering in the vicinity, and this time with warnings not to bring construction materials, saying doing so “will be dealt with.”

“The WESCOM of the Armed Forces of the Philippines announced the completion of another resupply mission on December 17 to troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre, which is grounded in Ayungin Shoal in the WPS,” it said Sunday in a statement.

WESCOM said the successful resupply mission happened even after the China Coast Guard (CCG) issued radio challenges, claiming that the Philippines’ resupply vessel is within “the People’s Republic of China’s jurisdiction,” but are allowing food supplies to be delivered.

The first warning was given in April after Chinese militia vessels deployed rubber boats to block the entrance to Ayungin Shoal with nets and ropes and issue repeated warnings against bringing construction materials.

The CCG, militia boats and rubber boats continued to patrol the area even after the nets were taken down in May.

On the other hand, according to WESCOM, the Philippine supply boats responded to the radio challenge appropriately and continued on their intended course.

Meanwhile, Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, commander of WESCOM, stated that the mission team “never requested permission to conduct resupply and other maritime operations in our territory and EEZ.”

He also reiterated the significance of the BRP Sierra Madre serving as the nearest Philippine outpost to China’s military garrison on Mischief Reef.

“The Mischief garrison is in our country’s exclusive economic zone and is China’s closest military facility to Palawan. That is why resupply missions are critical in maintaining our presence in Ayungin,” Carlos said.

“Whatever differences we have with China, in this particular case their position on bringing construction materials during LS57 resupply mission, we intend to address through continuing dialogue and diplomacy,” he added.

The recent resupply mission is the 11th conducted by WESCOM this year.

https://palawan-news.com/resupply-mission-to-ayungin-allowed-but-warned-by-chinese-coast-guard-not-to-bring-construction-materials/

Joma Sison is dead; NegOcc guv, Army urge NPA in Negros to abandon arms

From Panay News (Dec 19, 2022): Joma Sison is dead; NegOcc guv, Army urge NPA in Negros to abandon arms (By DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA)

BACOLOD City – Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and a commander of the Philippine Army in Negros Occidental urged New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to abandon armed struggle following the death of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Ma. “Joma” Sison.

The NPA is the armed wing of the CPP.

Lacson said the passing of Sison should also end the armed revolution.

Sison died on Dec. 16 in a hospital in Utrecht, The Netherlands where he had been living in self-imposed exile since 1988. He was 83.

Lacson said the Filipino people have been pursuing peace for a long time, and with Sison’s passing, the time has come for the rebels to work towards lasting and genuine peace.

The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IBde) commander, Brigadier General Inocencio Pasaporte, meanwhile, is hoping that NPA rebels returning to their homes and families for Christmas should seriously think about what they are doing.

Pasaporte reiterated to the rebels that armed struggle is not supported by the Negrense masses.

Meanwhile, Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) spokesperson, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, said Sison will be remembered by the Filipino people as the founder of the single most destructive and most notorious terrorist organization in the Philippines.

https://www.panaynews.net/joma-sison-is-dead-negocc-guv-army-urge-npa-in-negros-to-abandon-arms/

Residents cheer as PAF helicopter makes historic landing at Pearl Bank

From MindaNews (Dec 17, 2022):Residents cheer as PAF helicopter makes historic landing at Pearl Bank (By GAMAR A. AUKASA)

BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi (MindaNews / 17 December) – Residents of Pearl Bank, locally known as Baabag Sahasa, cheered and posed for souvenir photos as the Philippine Air Force made its first helicopter landing at the newly-established helicopter landing zone located beside the Baabag-Sahasa Island sovereignty marker in Languyan town last Wednesday.

Pearl Bank is about 80 kilometers from Tawi-Tawi’s capital town of Bongao and 76.59 kilometers from the closest point to North Borneo.

The helicopter ferried Brig. Gen. Romeo Racadio, commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi (JTFTT), the PAF’s Col. Arcanghel Gamido, Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Real Estate Office; Architect Ma. Belinda Octa, Acting Chief of Real Estates Management Division of the Department of National Defense’s Office for Real Estate and Installation; ·and representatives of the Civil Aviation Authority Philippines and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in the 

province.

 

Courtesy of JTFTT

The Island was formerly used by the Abu Sayyaf and kidnappers as their transit area, and was also used by smugglers and other lawless groups until it was secured in 2017 by the Marines of the JTFTT. The island is inhabited by Sama-Bajaus.

Residents in the area flocked to the landing zone for souvenir photos with the helicopter and the visitors.

The event is one of the task force’s milestone initiatives to establish and strengthen maritime security posture, establish active presence, and maintain overall preparedness for humanitarian and disaster response capability, particularly in far-flung areas and isolated marine detachments.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/12/residents-cheer-as-paf-helicopter-makes-historic-landing-at-pearl-bank/

Death of 'Joma' shows crumbling CPP-NPA-NDF leadership

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2022): Death of 'Joma' shows crumbling CPP-NPA-NDF leadership (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Saturday said the death of 83-year-old Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison in the Netherlands on Friday would crumble the leadership of the remaining insurgents.

"The death of Jose Maria Sison is but a symbol of the crumbling hierarchy of the CPP-NPA-NDF (New People's Army-National Democratic Front) which he founded to violently put himself in power," the agency said.

The DND said Sison's death also deprived the Filipino people of the opportunity to bring this fugitive to justice under the country's laws.

"Sison was responsible for the deaths of thousands of our countrymen. Innocent civilians, soldiers, police, child and youth combatants died because of his bidding," it said.

With this development, the DND is calling on the few remaining believers of Sison who have unwittingly turned themselves into the enemy of the people and are still blinded by the deceased's duplicitous and failed promises, to turn their backs on the violent and false ideology of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

"Five decades of brutal and bloody aggression against the state and the Filipino people have led to nothing but destruction and strife for thousands of Filipinos. A new era without Jose Maria Sison dawns for the Philippines, and we will all be better for it. The greatest stumbling block of peace for the Philippines is gone; let us now give peace a chance," the agency said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Col. Medel Aguilar, for his part, said Sison's death is an opportunity for his successor to turn away from the armed struggle.

"It's an opportunity for his successor if there will be, to chart a new direction in promoting reforms. Hopefully, away from armed struggle," he said when asked about the possible impact of the CPP founder's death.

Also, Aguilar said there were only 2,112 insurgents as of last validation and this figure has declined since then.

He also expressed optimism that Sison's death will further weaken the underground movement.

"The loss of a 'teacher' and 'guiding light' leaves the organization with no purpose and clear direction. But the organization needs to have a good 'teacher' and 'guiding light' who will lead its members away from violence and destruction," Aguilar said.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) Public Information Office (PIO) Chief Col. Redrico Maranan said Sison's death is a huge blow to the CPP-NPA-NDF.

While deaths are not causes of joy for anyone, Maranan said he is looking at this development at a "positive note" as a law enforcer.

"It is really a big blow to the CPP-NPA-NDF as they lost the person they are looking as a leader," he said.

The CPP earlier said the Netherlands-based Sison died around 8:40 p.m. Friday after two weeks of confinement at a hospital.

Sison's death came as the CPP would mark its 54th founding anniversary on Dec. 26. He founded the organization in 1968.

Sison was arrested during the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos -- the father of the incumbent president -- in 1976, along with his wife. They were released from detention in 1986 after then President Corazon Aquino came to power.

In 1987, Sison went on a self-exile in the Netherlands after peace talks with the government stalled. Peace talks were on and off since then until President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the negotiations in November 2017.

The CPP is the political wing of the NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190985

Pursue path to lasting peace, NTF-ELCAC tells public

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): Pursue path to lasting peace, NTF-ELCAC tells public

MANILA – Following the death of 83-year-old Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has urged the public to continue pursuing the path to lasting peace.

NTF-ELCAC Secretariat Executive Director Emmanuel Salamat said the NTF-ELCAC remains focused on its objectives and direction to pursue the whole-of-nation approach in defeating the local communist terrorist groups (CTGs) and obtaining sustainable and inclusive peace throughout the country.

“Enough for so much blood spilled, lives lost, the awful grief sown by violent terrorist groups such as the CPP/NPA/NDF (New People’s Army/National Democratic Front)… Let us discourage our deceived brothers and sisters from clinging to their hopes on a false ideology that political change and national well-being can only be achieved by way of the barrel of a gun,” Salamat said in a news release on Saturday.

Salamat also urged peace advocates and stakeholders to make use of “huge opportunities to make a difference by giving our passion and commitment for the people we are mandated to serve.”

“A new chapter for our country and people awaits — a new hope for peace and progress, as our collective and whole-of-nation commitment unites us in achieving inclusive peace and development for our fellow Filipinos, particularly in the conflict-affected and vulnerable communities — for love of God and country,” he said.

The NTF-ELCAC Secretariat expressed pride over recent accomplishments of the government in the campaign against the CTGs.

“This month pa lang, marami na tayong (alone, we have a lot of) accomplishments in our efforts to end the CTGs,” Salamat said.

He commended Eastern Mindanao Command for the recent dismantling of six CTG units in Eastern Mindanao.

“Earlier this month, Palawan was declared insurgency-free, a major victory for the WesCom (Western Command) and Palawan local government. It is now time to double our efforts in facilitating development projects in these areas,” he said.

Because of recent events and successful military operations in different regions, the CTGs are expected to significantly weaken due to a crisis in leadership, he added.

The NTF-ELCAC remains committed to facilitating delivery of services and development programs in areas previously inaccessible due to intimidation and violence perpetrated by the CTGs, and end the local communist armed conflict once and for all.

The NTF-ELCAC is composed of the following clusters in its whole-of-nation approach in attaining true and lasting peace for the country: Basic Services; Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment; Local Government Empowerment; Infrastructure and Resource Management; Localized Peace Engagement; ; Legal Cooperation; Peace, Law Enforcement, and Development Support; Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration and Amnesty Program; International Engagement Cluster; Sectoral Unification, Capacity Building and Empowerment; Strategic Communications; and Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management.

The CPP earlier said the Netherlands-based Sison died around 8:40 p.m. Friday after two weeks of confinement at a hospital.

Sison's death came as the CPP would mark its 54th founding anniversary on Dec. 26. He founded the organization in 1968.

Sison was arrested during the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos -- the father of the incumbent president -- in 1976, along with his wife. They were released from detention in 1986 after then President Corazon Aquino came to power.

In 1987, Sison went on a self-exile in the Netherlands after peace talks with the government stalled. Peace talks were on and off since then until President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the negotiations in November 2017.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1190994

OPAPRU hopeful demise of Sison will end insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): OPAPRU hopeful demise of Sison will end insurgency (By Priam Nepomuceno)

OPAPRU chief Carlito Galvez Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Sunday said it is hopeful that the death of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison will put an end to the local communist insurgency which has largely stalled development in the countryside.

"With the death of Mr. Sison, it is our hope that it will also put an end to the local communist armed conflict that claimed the lives of so many Filipinos and pushed back development in the countryside," OPAPRU chief Carlito Galvez Jr. said in a statement Sunday.

He also noted that the passing of Sison marks “the end of an era in the nation's history.”

"It was a period largely defined by armed hostilities, which to this day, is still being felt by Filipinos, especially those whose lives were affected by the communist movement," Galvez added.

With President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s banner of unity, Galvez said the government shall vigorously carry out interventions to sustain and build on the gains the government has achieved under the peace process.

"We, therefore, once again call upon the remaining members of the communist movement across the nation to abandon armed struggle, return to the fold of the law and rejoin mainstream society," he added.

Take advantage of gov’t aid

Galvez also urged the remaining rebels to take advantage of the socio-economic assistance the national government provides to former rebels, now called friends rescued, under its Local Peace Engagement and Transformation Programs.

"Now is the time for all of us Filipinos to unite and work together to bring a just and lasting peace to our country," Galvez said.

The CPP earlier said the Netherlands-based Sison died around 8:40 p.m. Friday after two weeks of confinement at a hospital.

Sison's death came as the CPP is marking its 54th foundation anniversary on Dec. 26. He founded the organization in 1968.

He was arrested during the time of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.– the father of the incumbent president - in 1976, along with his wife.

They were released from detention in 1986 after President Corazon Aquino came to power.

In 1987, Sison went on a self-exile in the Netherlands after peace talks with the government stalled.

Peace talks were on and off since then until President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the negotiations in November 2017.

The CPP has the New People's Army (NPA) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) as its armed and political wings, respectively.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. for his part, said while they are condoling with the family of the late CPP founder, they expressed regret that the deceased will no longer be brought to trial for the atrocities by the NPAs in the past years.

In a radio interview, Azurin also urged all remaining insurgents to rejoin mainstream society and live peaceful lives anew.

Conclude decades-long insurgency

Meanwhile, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the passing of Sison must also conclude the decades-long insurgency.

"The moment has come to end the armed conflict in the country so that we can effectively work towards lasting and genuine peace," Lacson who chairs the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict said, adding that the government has been in the pursuit of peace for a long time.

Lacson has been urging the remaining members of CPP's armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), to surrender, telling them that “choosing peace is always the better choice” and that the provincial government is "eager to welcome you back as we vow to build a stronger and progressive Negros Occidental."

The province, he added, is working closely with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police together with civil society groups and multi-stakeholders to implement peace-building activities, particularly in the rural communities affected by the insurgency.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191002

Wescom completes another resupply to Ayungin Shoal

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): Wescom completes another resupply to Ayungin Shoal (By Priam Nepomuceno)

CCG PRESENCE. A China Coast Guard (CCG) ship shadows the Philippine resupply boat in Ayungin Shoal in Philippine territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea on Dec. 17, 2022. In a statement on Sunday, the Western Command said the Chinese radio challenges would claim that the sea area near the Philippine ship is “under the jurisdiction of the People’s Republic of China.” (Photo courtesy of Joint Task Force West/Western Command)

MANILA – The Western Command (Wescom) on Sunday said it has successfully completed another resupply mission to Filipino troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) which is grounded and standing watch in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"The Wescom of the Armed Forces of the Philippines announced the completion of another resupply mission on December 17 to troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre, which is grounded in Ayungin Shoal in the WPS," it said in a statement on Sunday.

This came even as a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel, with several China militia vessels roaming in the vicinity, challenged and shadowed the Philippine supply boat.

"The Chinese radio challenges would claim that the sea area near the Philippine ship is 'under the jurisdiction of the People's Republic of China,' that they are allowing supplies to be delivered, and warned that bringing construction materials will be dealt with," Wescom said.

These radio challenges would always be followed by CCG's shadowing and close maneuvers against Philippine supply boats to try to disrupt the mission.

The Philippine supply boats, on the other hand, would respond and proceed to their planned route despite the challenges.

Meanwhile, Wescom commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos reiterated the significance of the BRP Sierra Madre serving as the nearest Philippine outpost to China's military garrison on Mischief Reef.

"The Mischief garrison is in our country's exclusive economic zone and is China's closest military facility to Palawan. That is why resupply missions are critical in maintaining our presence in Ayungin," Carlos added.

The recent resupply mission is the 11th this year.

Last April, China blocked the entrance of Ayungin Shoal with nets and ropes, deployed Chinese militia vessels and rubber boats, and repeatedly warned against bringing construction materials.

In May, the nets were no longer blocking the supply entrance of the Ayungin Shoal.

However, the CCG, militia vessels and rubber boats remained in the area.

"Our mission team has never requested permission to conduct resupply and other maritime operations in our territory and EEZ," Carlos said.

Gifts for troops

Meanwhile, Wescom spokesperson Maj. Cheryl Tindog said the Dec. 17 resupply mission also brought in Christmas care packs for troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre.

She added that this mission was equally significant because Christmas care packs were also given to the crew of the Navy ship.

The Christmas care packs consist of foods that make up the Filipino's traditional Noche Buena and include lechon de leche (suckling pig).

"Together with the University of Perpetual Help System and Naval Forces Reserve National Capital Region, the Commander of Wescom sent smiles of glad tidings and cheers to the sailors and marines in this part of the country's last frontier," Tindog said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191003

No security threats seen with death of Joma Sison: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): No security threats seen with death of Joma Sison: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno and Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison (File photo)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) does not see any threat levels rising with the recent passing of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria "Joma" Sison in the Netherlands.

"Ngayon po wala naman kaming nakikitang problema or pangamba dahil sa pagkamatay ni 'Joma', in fact tuloy-tuloy po yung pagbaba ng bilang ng kanilang mga kasapi at saka mga supporters. So patuloy din po na bumabalik loob yung kanilang mga armadong, yung mga combatants nila at saka yung mga supporters nila, yung mga mass bases and even some members of the underground mass organizations (We do not see any problems or threats coming from 'Joma's death, in fact the number of their members are on the downswing along with their supporters. This includes their armed components, their combatants, their mass bases and even members of the underground mass organizations)," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a radio interview Sunday.

This came as the CPP declared a 10-day mourning period following Sison's death and ordered its forces to stage "tactical offensives" against government troops.

He also added that the death of the CPP chair would possibly help or give the country a chance to gain peace.

"With the death of 'Joma', now palagay ko baka mas makatulong pa ito para magkaroon tayo ng kapayapaan sa ating bansa. Of course we don't want to celebrate the death of a person because we respect the dead and we also pray na sana yung mga tao na dating hawak nya ay magkaroon na rin ng enlightenment para pumili ng tamang landas kung paano tayo magkakaroon ng mga pagbabago sa sosyedad without resorting to armed struggle (With 'Joma's' death, I think this would help us to have peace in the country. Of course we don't want to celebrate the death of a person because we respect the dead and we also pray that people formerly under him will find enlightenment to pick up a better path to have societal change without resorting to armed struggle)," Aguilar said.

Disintegration of rebel ranks seen

In a Laging Handa briefing Monday, Aguilar said Sison's death could cause the further disintegration of the insurgents.

"Of course it will further weaken the underground mass organization as they claim that Jose Maria Sison is their 'teacher and guiding light', this means they will lose also their sense of purpose, their direction, and (it) will lead to demoralization among its members, disintegration and hopefully to the end of the armed struggle," he added, when asked about the possible impact of the CPP founder's demise.

Aguilar also declined to comment on Sison's possible replacement.

"I think the problem is within the organization to find a new leader of his quality, that's not, for us, it is also an opportunity to engage their leaders at a tactical level," the AFP spokesperson said.

However, he added that finding Sison's replacement is a difficult task as a lot of the leaders in the insurgency movement are already neutralized.

Aguilar also refused to comment when asked about the AFP's stand regarding the possible burial of the CPP chair in the Philippines.

"We cannot speculate yet on what's the decision of the immediate family of 'Joma', maybe we should ask them first where they want to bury the remains of Professor Sison," he added.

Meanwhile, Aguilar scored the CPP's order to attack state forces.

"They are so irresponsible and reckless in their statement by completely disregarding what our peaceful communities want and deserve - peace," he added.

PNP not keen on holiday truce with Reds

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is not keen on recommending a suspension of police operations against the communist insurgents amid the death of Sison and the forthcoming CPP anniversary.

In a statement Monday, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said continuous law enforcement and public safety operations would proceed while they are maintaining an active defense posture against terrorist actions and criminal activities for the holiday season.

“We regret that the Filipino people was shortchanged with the sudden demise of Joma Sison, whose death came even before he can be prosecuted and made to pay for his crimes,” Azurin said in a statement.

While Sison’s death extinguishes his criminal liability under the country’s laws, Azurin said all other accused in charges faced by the late communist leader would continue to undergo prosecution under the justice system.

“We had wanted to hear his testimony in open court about his role and that of the CPP-NPA leadership in the mass murder of suspected government spies and members of rival factions within the underground movement, as well as the assassination of some prominent and common individuals during his chairmanship of the CPP,” said Azurin.

The PNP chief said that while the darkest secrets of the CPP-NPA’s reign of terror that Sison has held all along will be buried with him, his hands would remain stained with the blood of thousands of Filipinos who died in communist insurgency-related incidents since 1969.

“The olive branch of peace and reconciliation offered by government is still the best option and should be accepted by the remaining CPP-NPA members especially now that they are leaderless and as their ideology become more obsolete in these modern times,” Azurin noted.

The CPP earlier said Sison died around 8:40 p.m. on Dec. 16, after two weeks of hospital confinement.

Sison's death came more than a week before the CPP's 54th founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

Sison and his wife were arrested in 1976 during the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos.

They were released from detention in 1986 after President Corazon Aquino came to power.

In 1987, Sison went on a self-exile in the Netherlands after peace talks with the government stalled.

Peace talks were on and off until then President Rodrigo Duterte terminated the negotiations in November 2017.

The CPP is the political wing of the New People's Army.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191026

Japanese military pledges helicopters for PH Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): Japanese military pledges helicopters for PH Army (By Priam Nepomuceno)

ARMY AVIATION. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 14th Brigade's Aviation Squadron UH-1J helicopter produced by Fuji Heavy Industries. This aircraft variant includes a vibration reduction system, an infrared exhaust suppressor, a night-vision-goggle-compatible cockpit, and is powered by a single Kawasaki T53-K-703 turboshaft engine with 1,800 horsepower, two-bladed main and tail rotors. (Photo courtesy of J-HangarSpace)

MANILA – The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) has committed to transfer a number of Japanese-made UH-1J utility helicopters to beef up the disaster response capabilities of the Army Aviation Regiment of the Philippine Army (PA).

In a statement Monday, Army spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the transfer will be made through a government grant.

The donation of UH-1J aircraft is expected to be received in two to three years.

The utility helicopters will significantly boost the capabilities of the Army Aviation Regiment, especially in the field of humanitarian assistance and disaster response, medical evacuation, transport of personnel and supplies and for damage assessment flights in times of national emergencies and calamities.

The Army Aviation Regiment currently has around five to six aircraft in its inventory.

The JGSDF pledge was announced on the sidelines of a bilateral meeting between the two armies during the first-ever Japan-Philippine-US Trilateral Key Leaders’ Engagement at Camp Asaka, Tokyo, Japan last December 11, Trinidad added.

"The Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., discussed with JGSDF Chief-of-Staff Gen. Yoshida Yoshihide potential areas of military cooperation to include capability development, training and exercises, as well as defense materiel assistance," Trinidad said.

He added that Brawner expressed optimism that the nascent partnership would bring about mutually beneficial outcomes for both the PA and the JGSDF.

“As we all know, the Philippines and Japan are within the Pacific Ring of Fire and we experience so many disasters every year. By collaborating, all of our Armies will be able to cooperate on ensuring that our people are safe as we face the various calamities that come to our land every year," Brawner said.

The JSGDF's UH-IJ combat is manufactured by Fiji Heavy Industries and its specifications include a reduced vibration system, an infrared exhaust suppressor, and a night-vision-goggle-compatible cockpit.

It is powered by a single Kawasaki T53-K-703 turboshaft engine with 1,800 horsepower, two-bladed main and tail rotors.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191036

Marcos to AFP: Stay committed to sustaining peace

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): Marcos to AFP: Stay committed to sustaining peace (By Azer Parrocha)

SUSTAIN PEACE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. attends the 87th anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (Dec. 19, 2022). Marcos urged the AFP to remain committed to their mandate of sustaining peace and security in the country. (Photo courtesy of Bongbong Facebook page)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to remain committed to their mandate of sustaining peace and security in the country.

“My marching guidance has always remained constant: we commit to the cause of peace. The security and stability of the country remains the priority,” Marcos said in his speech during the 87th anniversary celebration of the AFP at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“I call on you to continue performing your duties as you have had for many many years, and competently so that our country can achieve peace and security and sustain economic prosperity,” he added.

Marcos assured the AFP and other uniformed personnel of his administration’s commitment to its modernization programs aimed at acquiring more equipment for external defense and their other needs.

“We will be partners towards your vision of a strong, credible, world-class armed force that is a source of national pride and a source of national security,” he said.

“Hindi lingid sa aking kaalaman ang sakripisyo ng ating hukbo at ang panganib na kanilang hinaharap sa tawag ng tungkulin kaya naman bukod sa kagamitin, patuloy nating susuportahan ang kanilang pangangailangan (I am not oblivious of the sacrifice of our army and the danger they face in the call of duty, that is why apart from equipment, we will continue to support their needs),” he added.

He also thanked the AFP’s “unwavering loyalty and service” to the country and people.

The Commander-in-Chief cited how the AFP played a crucial role in assisting the government in the fight against terrorism as well as the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Through your efforts, along with other law enforcement authorities and government agencies, we now see a significant decline in their numbers, and that you have helped to pave the way for development to foster and for communities to live in peace,” he said.

Marcos recognized the armed forces’ support to humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts through mobilizing assets and the immediate deployment of personnel to save lives.

“The world we live [in] has changed. Apart from climate change related disasters, we are now confronted with the different and complex security environment. It brings with it new challenges that require us to adapt,” he said.

He also lauded the AFP for sustaining your existing defense and security engagements while exploring new areas for cooperation with your counterparts overseas.

“New security challenges do not recognize borders and we must continue to work with our neighbors, our allies, partners and friends to address mutual security concerns,” he added.

During the event, Marcos witnessed the static display as well as parade and review of the AFP’s air and ground assets and awarded military officers and civilian employees for their exemplary contributions to the armed forces.

Bearing the theme, “AFP @87: Kaisa ng Buong Sambayanan Tungo sa Mapayapa, Matatag at Maunlad na Pilipinas”, this year’s anniversary celebration aims to showcase and highlight the AFP’s “transformation and advancement as a military organization through the display of assets”.

Different activities will be organized nationwide to honor the decades-long service of the AFP to the country including bloodletting programs, tree-planting events and free museum visits in military camps, among others.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191066

AFP nearing victory vs. 'spoilers of peace': Bacarro

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): AFP nearing victory vs. 'spoilers of peace': Bacarro (By Priam Nepomuceno)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and AFP chief Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro (PNA photo by Alfred Frias)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said its internal security operations are now closer to victory against "spoilers of peace and lawless elements".

"Internal security operations are of prime importance to ensure the safety and security of our citizens against spoilers of peace and lawless elements. On this front we can confidently state that we have achieved strategic victory and it is inching closer towards victory against terrorism," AFP chief Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro said in his speech during the military's 87th founding anniversary celebration at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Bacarro also said the government's localized peace-building efforts with a multi-stakeholder and whole-of-nation approach also yielded positive results as it "encouraged enemies of the state" to return to the "fold of the law" and build goodwill with communities.

"Peace, (resilience) and progress are goals and aspirations that we in the Armed Forces strive to contribute and to achieve. This is apparent in the key milestones and victories that we have reached this year, particularly in decreasing the capability of the communist terrorist groups," he added.

Data from the AFP showed that out of 89 guerilla fronts in existence in 2016, only 24 are left with only five active to date.

Bacarro also thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for joining the AFP's 87th founding anniversary for the first time as its Commander-in-Chief.

"The AFP welcomes you today in the celebration of its 87th anniversary. We are deeply grateful to be spending time with you on this special day," he added.

Bacarro said the AFP accomplished "an inordinate amount of good work" this 2022 and that the year has been an "uncommonly good year for" the military.

"Soon Mr. President, we will unveil a new campaign plan, a plan that will assist in setting the stage for the attainment of a genuine unity, synergy and peace for our country. As we look forward to the dawn of the New Year, rest assured that we will remain hard at work operationally and strategically in sustaining our gains made these years," he said.

He added that the AFP is looking forward to many more years of serving under the guidance and leadership of President Marcos.

Bacarro also noted that 2022 has seen significant transitions and changes for the country and the AFP as this saw a peaceful transition of power in the country’s leadership brought about by the safe and peaceful conduct of the national and local elections last May.

Keen on reforms

He said he is fortunate to be given an opportunity to "contribute to this continuity of policies in our armed forces as the change in our legal institutional policy resulting from RA 11709".

Republic Act 11709, signed by then President Rodrigo R. Duterte, sets a fixed three-year tour of duty for the AFP chief, vice-chief-of-staff, deputy chief-of-staff, major service commanders, unified command commanders and inspector general unless terminated by the President.

"(This) will provide the impetus to further pursue our transformation initiatives in the name of public service for the benefit of our country and people," Bacarro said.

Amid the change and transformation, he said what remains constant is the military's singular drive and determination to protect the people and secure the state.

"Therefore the theme of our 87th anniversary celebration 'Kaisa ng Buong Sambayanan, Tungo Sa Mapayapa, Matatag at Maunlad na Pilipinas’ perfectly captures how we struggle for multiple goals in order to be a force for good in our country," he added.

Protecting sovereignty, boosting modernization

Aside from protecting the country and its people from internal threats, Bacarro said the AFP has always conducted "external security operations" to ensure that all of the Philippines are safe from "pressure and aggression from outside".

"We know that this is the cornerstone of sovereignty. The aerial and surface patrols that we have conducted this year and our efforts to establish littoral monitoring stations along more parts of our country attest to this," he added.

Bacarro reported that great strides have been made in the AFP Modernization Program through the acquisition of capable and state-of-the-art ground, air, sea assets.

He added that all of these are part of efforts to contribute to the achievement of a credible defense posture for the country.

International engagements

Bacarro, meanwhile, vowed to fortify the AFP's ties with other partner nations.

"We recognized our capacity to defend our country and believe we can do this with utmost commitment. However, in an interconnected world where security threats transcend borders, building bridges instead of burning them is very, very important. This is where our international defense and security engagement are instructive," he said.

In line with this, Bacarro conducted training, military exchanges and joint combined exercises to allow them to learn from international counterparts, have their voice heard on the global stage and conduct defense diplomacy.

"It was evident this year as we emerged from the pandemic and responded to the natural disasters and calamities that befell our country. We have probably demonstrated that there are no crisis that we are not able to address and that we are ready to extend our helping hand should disasters and calamities strike," Bacarro said.

He said all these achievements would not be possible if not for the dedication and commitment of Filipino soldiers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191079

6 soldiers hurt in NPA attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): 6 soldiers hurt in NPA attack (By Sarwell Meniano) 

WOUNDED. A soldier wounded by anti-personnel mine blast in Las Navas, Northern Samar on December 18. The six troopers were hurt while securing a water system project carried out through the national government’s Support to Barangay Development Program. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – Six soldiers were injured when New People’s Army (NPA) rebels detonated on Sunday anti-personnel mine in upland Quirino village in Las Navas, Northern Samar.

Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, commander of the Philippine Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion, said Monday the troopers were wounded while securing a water system project of the national government’s Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP).

“The attack happened as we do our best to help the former conflict-affected communities through our Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Program Teams to achieve long-lasting peace and sustainable development in Northern Samar," Buban said.

Quirino village is among the seven communities in Las Navas, Northern Samar that are recipients of the 2022 SBDP, a project of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The NPA has been known for detonating internationally banned anti-personnel mines in the province. In 2022 alone, there were three mine blasts recorded in Northern Samar from April to July.

The military earlier said NPA rebels resort to use of banned explosives since they have no capability to face soldiers in an armed encounter.

Northern Samar is considered the hotbed of the armed rebels due to its thick forest and poor road networks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191027

Cops hunt down 2 men in murder of Marine officer

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 19, 2022): Cops hunt down 2 men in murder of Marine officer (By Edwin Fernandez)

SHOT AND KILLED. Police and village watchmen carry Marine Staff Sgt. Rodolfo Magno Jr. to a police car that rushed him to a hospital where he was declared dead on arrival on Sunday (Dec. 18, 2022) in Cotabato City. A manhunt is underway for the killers who, witnesses said, were onboard a motorbike. (Photo courtesy of DXMS – Cotabato)

COTABATO CITY – Police are hunting a motorcycle riding-in-tandem gunmen who shot and killed an off-duty Marine officer here on Sunday.

“There are several angles that investigators are looking into the daring attack against Marine Staff Sgt. Rodolfo Magno Jr., a member of Philippine Marine Corps,” said Major John Vincent Bravo, city police station 1 chief, in a radio interview Monday.

The victim was sitting inside his car parked along Moreno Drive, Barangay Rosary Heights 2, while waiting for his wife who was buying vegetables at a roadside store when the gunmen opened fire.

Magno sustained bullet wounds in the head and body.

Responding village watchmen and policemen rushed Magno to a hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.

The victim’s children, seated at the back, were unharmed but traumatized, police said.

Police investigators found three empty shells for a .45-caliber pistol at the scene.

The couple and the children had just attended the Misa de Gallo and were heading home when the attack occurred at past 6 a.m.

Bravo said the victim was assigned to the Service Support Company of Philippine Marines based in Zamboanga City.

“He just completed schooling and went home to be with his family during Christmas and New Year,” he said. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1191034