Tuesday, March 21, 2023

CPP/NPA-Northern Negros: AFP unleashes anew its monstrosity on civilians in Toboso

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): AFP unleashes anew its monstrosity on civilians in Toboso
 


Cecil Estrella
Spokesperson
NPA-Northern Negros (Roselyn Pelle Command)
Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)
New People's Army

March 21, 2023

Operating troops of #DiMasaligan79IB, in unabashed display of its fascist character, perpetrated scores of human rights abuses against civilians in Barangay San Isidro, Toboso, Negros Occidental during its latest military operations from March 17-20.

Eight (8) fascist soldiers ransacked the home and unlawfully rummaged the belongings of Benjie Nuevo, a sugar farmworker, in Sitio Serahe at around 11 AM of March 19. Nuevo was not home at the time.

On March 17, Buhat spouses, sugar farmworkers from Sitio Bomba, was repeatedly subjected to various forms of human rights abuses.

The first abuse was perpetrated by 9 fascist soldiers at around 6 AM forcing the couple to sell their raised chickens at unreasonable price. At noontime, as the wife went home from farmwork, another group of 10 fascist troops trained their high-powered rifles (HPR) at her causing her to almost faint out of fear. In the afternoon, the husband was harshly interrogated on his way home. Few hours later, 15 rowdy and ill-mannered soldiers barged into their residence and stayed for the night at their nearly finished house transforming it to military barrack.

The health condition of the wife who is suffering from heart ailment have worsen as result of their ordeal in the hands of #DiMasaligan79IB.

Another incident of human rights abuses was reported in Sitio Serahe on February 13. Four (4) elements of #DiMasaligan79IB trained their HPR at civilian Jusmine Rebelica Tapang while she was tending to her carabao.

These series of attacks on civilians were perpetrated in lieu of 303Bde Col. Edralin’s relentless focused military operations, VisCom Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo’s obsession to crush the NPA by end of the first quarter of 2023 and AFP’s heightened operational tempo in response to the directive of the illegitimate and fascist US-Marcos II regime to eliminate the revolutionary movement.

The overall operational campaign, being ruthless to civilians and anti-people to the core, unveil its desperation to attain their unachievable goal of crushing the undefeatable NPA. It further unmask the true nature of the reactionary AFP in general and #DiMasaligan79IB in particular as the protectors of big landlords and compradors and their imperialist masters. Their reactionary, fascist and anti-people character isolated them from the broad toiling masses.

The NPA enjoys the people’s boundless support and unbreakable close link. It adheres to strict discipline anchored on serving the people such as speaking politely, buying goods at a reasonable price, and respect for women among others. With this discipline and the justness of the war it is waging, the NPA is welcome and even look for in rural communities. As a genuine people’s army, no counter-insurgency campaigns can crush the NPA.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/afp-unleashes-anew-its-monstrosity-on-civilians-in-toboso/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: PNP sa Guihulngan kag 62nd IB sa Isabela, 4 Pilason

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): PNP sa Guihulngan kag 62nd IB sa Isabela, 4 Pilason (PNP in Guihulngan and 62nd IB in Isabela, 4 neutralized)
 


JB Regalado
Spokesperson
NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)
Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)
New People's Army

March 21, 2023

Ginadayaw sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army ang mga isganan nga Pulang Hangaway sa paglunsar sang harassment sa detachment sang 7th Regional Mobile Force Battalion (7th RMFBn) alas 7:58 kagab-i, Marso 20, 2023. Ang 7th RMFBn ang nahamtang sa sityo Hinugpayan, Brgy Luz, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. Duha (2) ang samaron sa nasambit nga mga kapulisan suno sa mga residente. Ang RMFBn sa baryo Luz ang masami ginareklamo sang mga pumuluyo nga nagapangsaka-saka sa ila mga kabalayan. Nagapamahug sa mga magunguma kag pilit nga ginapasurender tungod ginapasibangdan sila nga mga suporter sang NPA. Dugang pa sang mga pumuluyo sa kasikbit nga mga baryo, ini man nga kwerpo sang kapulisan ang nagapangsita kag naga-ukay sang mga pinamakal sang mga residente sa tion sang ila ginamuntar nga checkpoint sa dalanon sang nasambit nga baryo kada Huwebes nga adlaw.

Samtang duha (2) man pilason sa mga katapo sang 62nd IB sang ginharas sang NPA ang 62nd IB Bravo Company Detachment nga nahamtang sa Brgy Sikatuna proper, Isabela, Negros Occidental, alas 8:05 kagab-i, Marso 20, 2023. Ang 62nd IB ang responsable sa padayon nga paglusob sa komunidad sang IP’s sa border sang Brgy Makilignit kag Banog-banog tanan sang Isabela, Negros Occidental. Ini man nga tropa militar ang ginatudlo kag ginareklamo sang mga pumuluyo nga padayon nagapangharas sa tawhanon nga kinamatarung sang mga sibilyan kag indigenous people sa mga sityo sang Lower Caliban kag Upper Caliban nga sakop sang Brgy Makilignit kag Brgy Banog-banog, Isabela, Negros Occidental.

Ini ang kongkreto nga sabat sang NPA sa malaba na nga listahan sang human right’s violations nga direkta ginkomiter sang 62nd IB kag kapulisan sa mga inosenteng sibilyan sa Central Negros.

Ginamando sang Leonardo Panaligan Command sa tanan nga yunit sang NPA nga ipadayon ang paglunsar sang malapnagon nga taktikal nga opensiba sa sakop sang prenteng gerilya. Ihatag ang hustisya sa mga pumuluyo nga biktima sang pagpamintas sa pasistang tropa. Silotan ang berdugong AFP, PNP kag iban pa nga may utang nga dugo sa pumuluyo kag bug-os nga rebolusyonaryong kahublagan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pnp-sa-guihulngan-kag-62nd-ib-sa-isabela-4-pilason/

CPP/Eastern Visayas ROC: 14 firearms, including 9 high-powered rifles, seized by NPA-Eastern Samar

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): 14 firearms, including 9 high-powered rifles, seized by NPA-Eastern Samar



Eastern Visayas Regional Operational Command (Efren Martires Command)
New People's Army

March 21, 2023

At least 14 firearms, including nine high-powered rifles, were seized by the New People’s Army-Eastern Samar (Sergio Lobina Command or NPA-SLC) in their successful tactical offensive against fascist state troops in Barangay Dorillo, Jipapad, last October 7, 2022.

The Red fighters confiscated seven R4 rifles, an M203 grenade launcher, a Galil assault rifle, three .45 caliber pistols, and two 9mm pistols from troops of the 52nd Infantry Battalion and municipal police who were conducting Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) operations in Dorillo and camping in its barangay hall.

The NPA-SLC assaulted the fascist troops who were still sleeping and drunk from the town fiesta. After an 11-minute exchange of gunfire, the remaining enemy troops surrendered. Killed were SSgt Jhon Claire G. Flores and PFC Mark Edupunchu R. Siscar. Wounded were Sgt Allan Espinosa Talania, PFC Mengote, and PFC Gilbert P. Irasga, all of whom also surrendered to the NPA. A PAT Comar Glino Nimez of the municipal police also surrendered. Medical officers of the NPA-SLC immediately gave first aid to the wounded enemy troops.

The NPA-SLC also seized several rounds of ammunition and magazines, eight ammo pouches, nine military packs, two transceiver radios and a Harris radio. They also confiscated cellphones, powerbanks and other military equipment.

Before the NPA offensive, the troops of the 52nd IB indiscriminately fired their weapons in “celebration” of the town fiesta. This did not deter the Red fighters from pursuing the tactical offensive and attaining victory.

The peasant masses in Jipapad are elated by the victory of their true army against the fascist RCSP troops who have been disturbing their lives and livelihood. The masses have long demanded for the soldiers to leave their communities. They eagerly assisted the Red fighters in launching and retreating from the offensive. It is proof of the deeply-rooted support the NPA enjoys in Eastern Samar, belying enemy declarations that the revolutionary movement is finished in the province.

In their shame, the fascist AFP fired two rounds of their 105mm howitzer towards farmlands between Barangay Dorillo and Barangay Cagmanaba the day after the offensive. At least eight columns of fascist troops combed through the area to pursue the NPA-SLC but to no avail.

The Regional Operations Command of the NPA in Eastern Visayas congratulates the NPA-SLC for their solid tactical offensive against the fascist RCSP troops in Dorillo. The Red fighters masterfully displayed their military and political superiority over the enemy, their shining record of adherence to the Three Rules of Conduct and Eight Points of Discipline, as well as their steadfastness to honor the CARHRIHL. This is despite the wanton fascist state terrorism, all-out war and “take no prisoners” policy of the US-Marcos regime. (January 16, 2023 Statement)

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/14-firearms-including-9-high-powered-rifles-seized-by-npa-eastern-samar/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Mga komunidad sa Kalinga at Bukidnon, kinanyon at binomba ng AFP

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Mga komunidad sa Kalinga at Bukidnon, kinanyon at binomba ng AFP (Communities in Kalinga and Bukidnon, shelled and bombed by the AFP)
 





March 21, 2023

Magkakasunod na kaso ng panganganyon, aerial bombing at istraping ang isinagawa ng mga yunit ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) sa mga prubinsya ng Kalinga sa Northern Luzo at Bukidnon sa North Central Mindanao sa nagdaang mga linggo. Labis na takot at troma ang idinulot nito sa mga residente ng kalapit na mga komunidad. Apektado rin ang kabuhayan ng mga residente.

Sa Kalinga, walang-patumanggang binomba ng mga jet fighter ng AFP ang mabundok na bahagi ng Barangay Gawa-an sa Balbalan bandang alas-2 ng madaling araw noong Marso 5. Ayon sa mga residente, dinig hanggang sa mga bayan ng Upper Tabuk at Limos ang ingay ng mga fighter jet. Naghatid din ng takot sa lugar ang pag-iikot-ikot ng drone na pangsarbeylans. Kinaumagahan, dalawang helikopter naman ang umikot sa Balbalan.

Liban pa rito, iligal na dinakip ng mga sundalo ang siyam na residente ng Sityo Uta at Codcodwe ng Barangay Gawa-an at idinetine nang pitong oras. Ayon sa mga grupo sa karapatang-tao, patuloy ang pagbubuhos ng tropa ng militar sa Balbalan. Gayundin, mayroong inilagay na howitzer sa Sityo Guesang, Poblacion na nakaharap sa Barangay Gawa-an.

Muling iniulat ng mga grupo sa karapatang-tao ang pambobomba at pag-istraping ng AFP sa mga komunidad ng Balbalan noong Marso 9.

Sa Bukidnon, naitala ang maraming kaso ng panganganyon, pambobomba at istraping sa Malaybalay City mula Marso 13 hanggang Marso 16. Kinanyon ng AFP ang Barangay Culaman noong Marso 13 ng madaling araw. Inatake rin ang Barangay Kaburakanan noong Marso 15 ng hapon at gabi. Tinatayang 16 na rocket ang inihulog ng dalawang helikopter at naitala ang limang serye ng istraping at dalawang serye ng panganganyon. Muling inatake ng mga helikopter ng AFP ang Barangay Kaburakanan noong Marso 16, alas-12 ng hatinggabi.

Pagpatay. Pinaulanan ng bala ng mga sundalo ng 37th IB ang apat na sibilyan, kabilang ang dalawang menor-de-edad, sa Sityo 27, Barangay Sangay, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat noong Pebrero 27. Para pagtakpan ang kanilang krimen, pinalabas ng AFP sa masmidya na mga Pulang mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) ang kanilang inatake.

Kinilala ang mga biktima na sina Nasyon Gantangan, 30 taong gulang at may tatlong anak; Epin Dasol, at dalawang menor-de-edad na sina Waldo Lunon (16) at Verano Matilak (15). Napatay sa pamamaril si Gantangan habang nasugatan si Dasol.

Nakasigaw pa si Gantangan ng “Sibilyan ni!” (Sibilyan kami!) bago siya mapatay. Sa kabila nito, nagpatuloy sa pagpapaputok ang tropang militar hanggang umaga. Ayon sa pamilya ni Gantangan, sobrang daming bala ang tumama sa kanyang katawan na halos mahati ito.

Pagdukot. Dinukot ng mga ahente ng 94th IB ang organisador ng magsasaka na si Leonardo Sermona Jr noong Marso 16. Siya ay huling namataan sa Barangay Bi-Ao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. Nakapagpadala pa ng mensahe si Sermona na nagsasabing “hinahabol ako” bandang alas-4:59 ng hapon ng Marso 16. Hindi pa natutunton ang kinaroroonan niya hanggang sa kasalukuyan.

Pag-aresto. Inaresto ng mga pulis at armadong pwersa ng estado noong Marso 7 ang organisador ng Anakpawis-Rizal na si Arnel Bueza bandang alas-12:30 ng madaling araw sa kanyang bahay sa Sityo Tibagan, Barangay Dolores, Taytay, Rizal. Walang ipinakitang mandamyento de aresto ang mga dumakip. Dinala siya sa CIDG Padilla, Antipolo.

Inaresto ng 62nd IB ang magsasakang si Ricky Elod noong Marso 17 sa Sityo Caliban, Barangay Makilignit, Isabela, Negros Occidental. Hindi pa natutukoy ng mga kaanak ni Elod kung saan siya dinala ng mga sundalo.

Panggigipit. Niransak ng mga sundalo ng 62nd IB ang bahay ni JR Apao sa Sityo Binil-iwan, Barangay Calupaan, Guihulngan City noong Marso 17. Tinakot at pinilit ng mga sundalo si Apao na magsilbing giya sa kanilang operasyong militar.

Sa Negros Occidental, pinasok ng mga tropa ng 62nd IB ang bahay ng mag-asawang magsasaka na sina Danila at Libeth Gerunda sa Sityo Lower Caliban, Barangay Banog-Banog, Isabela noong Marso 19. Wala ang mag-asawa sa naturang bahay pero nakita ng mga sundalo ang anak ng mga ito. Tinakot at pilit na nilitratuhan ang mga menor-de-edad sa naturang bahay.

Noong Marso 17, pinasok ng nag-ooperasyong tropa ng 62nd IB ang bahay ni Renante Villacapa sa Sityo Caliban sa parehong barangay. Ininteroga naman si Eyok Diala, residente ng parehong sityo.

Tinutukan ng armas ang babaeng si Evelyn Bitonga sa Sityo Lower Caliban sa parehong barangay noong Marso 20.

Sa Rizal, sapilitang pinatipon at “pinasuko” ng 80th IB at mga ahente ng National Task Force-Elcac noong Marso 12 ang mga residente ng 1K2 Kasiglahan Village, Montalban. Tinipon ng mga sundalo ang 400-500 residente.

Samantala, patuloy na ginigipit ng mga pwersa ng estado ang organisador ng maralita na si Roberto Marquez simula pa Marso 2. Noong Marso 6, pinasok ng mga pulis ang kanyang bahay sa Sityo Sumilang, Barangay San Jose, Antipolo para pagbantaan siya at ang kanyang pamilya.

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/mga-komunidad-sa-kalinga-at-bukidnon-kinanyon-at-binomba-ng-afp/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Ang pagsamsam ng 14 na baril sa lasing na mga sundalo sa Eastern Samar

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Ang pagsamsam ng 14 na baril sa lasing na mga sundalo sa Eastern Samar (The seizure of 14 guns from drunken soldiers in Eastern Samar)
 





March 21, 2023

Noong Oktubre 7, 2022, 14 na armas ang nasamsam ng mga Pulang mandirigma matapos salakayin at lubusang gapiin ang mga sundalo ng 52nd IB at mga pulis na nagkakampo sa Barangay Dorillo, Jipapad, Eastern Samar.

Matagal nang inirereklamo ng mga residente ang presensya ng mga sundalo at pulis sa ilalim ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP). Kabilang sa kanilang mga paglabag ang pagkakampo sa mismong barangay hall at walang-habas na pagpapaputok ng baril. Kaya naman buong lugod na sinuportahan ng masa ang paglulunsad ng taktikal na opensiba.

Itinaon ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang reyd sa pista ng barangay. Lasing at tulog ang mga sundalo nang sumalakay ang mga Pulang mandirigma. Matapos ang 11-minutong palitan ng putok, sumuko ang mga sundalo at pulis. Dalawa ang napatay na sundalo at tatlo ang sugatan. Agad nilapatan ng paunang lunas ang mga nasugatan.

Labing-apat na armas, kung saan siyam ay mataas na kalibreng riple, ang nasamsam mula sa reyd. Kabilang dito ang pitong ripleng R4, isang M203 greande launcher, isang Galil assault rifle, tatlong .45 kalibreng pistola at dalawang 9mm pistola. Nakakumpiska rin ang mga kasama ng maraming bala, walong ammunition pouch, siyam na military pack, dalawang radyo at isang radyong Harris. May mga selpon, powerbank at iba pang gamit militar pa silang nasamsam.

Bilang tugon sa malaking kabiguan, kinanyon kinabukasan ng mga sundalo ang mga sakahan sa pagitan ng mga barangay ng Dorillo at Cagmanaba. Di bababa sa walong kolum ng kaaway ang sumuyod sa magkalapit na lugar pero bigo silang abutan ang mga mandirigma.

[English translation: The seizure of 14 guns from drunken soldiers in Eastern Samar

On October 7, 2022, 14 weapons were seized by the Red fighters after they attacked and completely defeated the soldiers of the 52nd IB and the police who were camping in Barangay Dorillo, Jipapad, Eastern Samar.

Residents have long complained about the presence of soldiers and police under the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP). Their violations include camping in the barangay hall itself and firing guns indiscriminately. That is why the masses enthusiastically supported the launch of the tactical offensive.

The Red fighters raided the barangay festival. The soldiers were drunk and asleep when the Red fighters attacked. After an 11-minute exchange of fire, the soldiers and police surrendered. Two soldiers were killed and three were wounded. First aid was immediately applied to the injured.

Fourteen weapons, of which nine were high-caliber rifles, were seized from the raid. These include seven R4 rifles, an M203 greande launcher, a Galil assault rifle, three .45 caliber pistols and two 9mm pistols. The companions also confiscated a lot of ammunition, eight ammunition pouches, nine military packs, two radios and a Harris radio. They also seized cell phones, power banks and other military equipment.

In response to the big failure, the next day the soldiers shelled the farms between the barangays of Dorillo and Cagmanaba. At least eight columns of the enemy rushed into the vicinity but failed to catch up with the fighters.]

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/ang-pagsamsam-ng-14-na-baril-sa-lasing-na-mga-sundalo-sa-eastern-samar/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Bagong tayong detatsment sa Negros Oriental, pinasabugan ng BHB

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Bagong tayong detatsment sa Negros Oriental, pinasabugan ng BHB (New detachment in Negros Oriental, blown up by the NPA






March 21, 2023

Pinasabugan ng dalawang rifle grenade ng mga Pulang mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)-Central Negros ang detatsment ng 62nd IB sa Barangay Malangsa sa Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental noong Marso 15. Dalawang sundalo ng 62nd IB ang napatay habang dalawa pa ang nasugatan.

Ayon sa yunit ng BHB, inirereklamo ng mga residente ang naka-istasyong tropa ng 62nd IB sa naturang barangay. Iniulat ng mga residente ng Barangay Malangsa ang iba’t ibang paglabag sa karapatang-tao kabilang ang sapilitan pagpapatrabaho sa kanila ng mga sundalo, at walang batayang pag-aakusa at pilit pagpapasuko na diumano’y “suporter” ng hukbong bayan.

Sa Canlaon City, binulabog ng mga Pulang mandirigma ng BHB-Central Negros ang nag-ooperasyong tropa ng 62nd IB sa Sityo Batang-batangan, Barangay Bucalan noong Marso 6. Isa ang napatay at isa ang nasugatang sundalo sa operasyong harasment.

Sa Camarines Sur, kambal na operasyong harasment ang inilunsad ng mga yunit BHB-West Camarines Sur noong Pebrero 28 laban sa dalawang detatsment ng militar sa bayan ng Ragay. Unang pinaputukan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang detatsment sa Barangay Baya na sinundan ng pag-atake sa detatsment sa Barangay Patalunan.

Samantala, dalawang tropa ng Special Action Force (SAF) ng pulis ang napatay sa aktibong depensa ng BHB-Mindoro laban sa isang kolum ng nag-ooperasyong yunit ng 10th SAF Battalion at 203rd Brigade sa Sityo Naksib, Barangay Sta Cruz, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro noong Marso 15. Walang kaswalti sa hanay ng mga Pulang mandirigma na ligtas na nakaatras matapos ang limang minutong sagupaan.

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/bagong-tayong-detatsment-sa-negros-oriental-pinasabugan-ng-bhb/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Koresponsal//Ambag ng kabataan sa anibersaryo ng BHB

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Koresponsal//Ambag ng kabataan sa anibersaryo ng BHB (Correspondent//Young people's contribution to the NPA anniversary)






March 21, 2023

Pangkat-pangkat ng Kabataang Makabayan (KM) sa Northeastern Mindanao Region ang nagpinta ng mga panawagan sa higit 15 bayan ng Surigao del Sur at Agusan del Sur sa nagdaang mga linggo. Pinuno nila ang mga dingding at kalsada ng mga katagang “NPA 54”, “Viva CPP-NPA-NDF” at “Sampa sa NPA.”

Bahagi ang aktibidad sa “operasyong pinta at operasyong dikit” o OP-OD ng KM bilang paggunita at paghahanda sa darating na ika-54 anibersaryo ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB).

Bago ang mismong aktibidad, nagtipon ang mga kasapi ng KM sa rehiyon para magpulong at magplano at itakda ang sistema, moda at koordinasyon ng aktibidad. Matapos tukuyin ang mga lugar na sasaklawin ng aktibidad, pinaghatian ng mga balangay ang mga baryo at bayan.

Nagbuo sila ng 2-3 ka taong tim para sa pagpinta at dikit. Mayroon namang mga tim na itinalaga para magrekorida at sarbey. Tiniyak ng mga ito ang seguridad ng mga lugar kung saan isasagawa ang operasyong pinta-dikit.

Puno ng sigasig ang mga kabataang naglunsad ng aktibidad. “Sa una ay kinabahan kami pero sa kabila nito ay mayroong pananabik din dahil sa magiging ambag namin sa darating na anibersaryo,” ayon sa isang kabataang lumahok. “Mas na-excite kami sa susunod na mga tungkulin na pamamahagi ng mga polyeto at postering.”

“Natutuwa kami sa aming naging ambag sa pagdiriwang ng anibersaryo ng BHB. Maliit man ito, mahalaga pa rin sa propaganda para sa pagsulong ng pakikibaka,” ayon pa sa isang lumahok.

Isang kasapi ng KM ang nagpahayag ng kapasyahang magpultaym sa BHB matapos ang aktibidad. Nangako naman ang iba na susunod na rin sa darating na mga panahon.

Naging tampok ang OP/OD bilang porma sa propaganda noong panahon ng diktadurang US-Marcos. Inilulunsad ito ng mga aktibista para ihayag ang kanilang paninindigan sa mga isyu at pagkundena sa bulok na naghaharing sistema habang umiiwas na madakip o mahuli ng pasistang tropa ng diktadura. Naging malaganap ang OP-OD, mga peryodikit, mga poster na may iba’t-ibang laki sa mga pader, tambayan, sa loob ng mga bus at dyip at iba pang lugar.
KM sa Southern Tagalog

Hindi maikakaila na binubuo ng kabataan, edad 18 hanggang 35, ang mayorya ng mga Pulang mandirigma. Binibigyan nila ng kakaibang sigla at bentahe ang hukbo ng mamamayan. Patunay sila sa lalim ng ugat ng hukbo at rebolusyon sa masa.

Bago magpultaym, marami sa kanila ay dumaan sa pagiging kasapi ng Kabataang Makabayan (KM) sa kani-kanilang lugar. Kabilang sa kanila sina Ka Arnold at Ka Mabolo, kabataang mandirigma sa isang larangan sa Southern Tagalog (ST).

Napagtanto niya na wala gaanong kaiba sa sitwasyon noon at ngayon. “Kitang-kita ang malubhang kalagayaan ng kabataan, lalo noong panahon ng pandemya,” aniya. Kaya nang imbitahan siyang sumali sa KM, agad niya itong tinanggap.

“Astig!” ang reaksyon ni Ka Mabolo, isang kabataan sa kalunsuran, ang imbitahan siya sa KM. “Mukhang exciting, at makasaysayan pa!” Aniya, manghang-mangha siya noon nang ipaliwanag sa kanya na ang KM ang isa sa pinakauna at pinakamalaking nagsulong ng kilusang masa laban sa diktadura ni Ferdinand Marcos Sr, ama ng kasalukuyang presidente.

Di nagtagal, nagpasyang buong-panahong kumilos sa hukbong bayan ang dalawa.

“Tulad ng pagkamulat ko sa KM, ganun din ang proseso ng pagpasya kong sumapi sa hukbong bayan,” salaysay ni Ka Arnold. “Nang mapag-aralan at makita ko kung gaano kahalaga ang armadong pakikibaka, unti-unti kong napapagtanto na walang ibang patutunguhan ang lahat ng ating daan kundi papunta sa kanayunan.”

“Isang napakalaking hamon sa mga kabataan ang pagsapi sa Hukbo, pero marami na ring mga kabataang gaya natin ang nauna nang nagpanday ng ating tatahaking daan,” aniya.

“Sabi nga ni Ka Joma, ang pinakamahuhusay na kabataan ay siyang iniluluwal ng pakikibaka!”

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/ambag-ng-kabataan-sa-anibersaryo-ng-bhb/

CPP/Ang Bayan: KoresponsalBalitaan ng hukbong bayan sa Camarines Norte

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Koresponsal//Balitaan ng hukbong bayan sa Camarines Norte (Correspondent//News of the people's army in Camarines Norte)






March 21, 2023

Alam n’yo bang 18 buwan sa bartolina si Ka Joma?” Ito ang pambukas ng Pulang kumander sa bahaging tanong-sagot ng pang-umagang pulong ng isang yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa Camarines Norte sa ilalim ng Armando Catapia Command (ACC). Paksa para lubusang makilala ang dakilang lider ng kasalukuyang rebolusyong Pilipino mula ang pakikipagdebate ni Jose Maria Sison sa mga upisyal ng lumang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas, hanggang sa madilim na karanasan niya sa pagkakapiit, at maging sa paborito niyang prutas na mangga.

Sa pagpasok ng 2023, naging regular na bahagi ng pulong ng kumand sa iba’t ibang yunit ng BHB ang tungkol sa buhay at pakikibaka ni Ka Joma. Ginamit na sanggunian ang sariling talambuhay niya na “Tanaw mula sa Loob.” Layunin nitong sariwain at ipakilala ang naging mahalagang ambag ng tagapangulong tagapagtatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas.

Bahagi ang talakayan sa buhay at pakikibaka ni Ka Joma sa pagsisikap ng BHB sa Bicol para ibwelo ang mga rebolusyunaryong gawain sa rehiyon. Nakabilang sa mga pinag-aralan ng mga kadre at pulang mandirigma ang “Hindi Magagapi ang Demokratikong Rebolusyon sa Pilipinas”” na pinakahuling pahayag na naisulat ni Ka Joma bago siya pumanaw.

Muling pinag-aralan sa paraang paglalapat ng sariling karanasan sa lalawigan ang “Ang Mga Partikular na Katangian ng Ating Digmang Bayan.” Gayundin ang mga piling sulatin ni Zhue De, mga regular at espesyal na isyu ng Ang Bayan at ang mismong pahayag ng Partido sa kanyang ika-54 na taon para gabayan ang mga kumander at mandirigma sa pinakahuling kalagayan ng rebolusyong Pilipino at paano ito dadalhin sa walang kaparis na antas sa nakaraan.

Pinangunahan ng departamento sa pulitika ng ACC ang kampanyang pag-aaral. Sa pagtutulungan ng mga instruktor at giya sa pulitika, sistematikong pinadaloy sa iba’t-ibang pormasyon ang arawang talakayan sa pulitika.

“Ang buhay at pakikibaka ni Ka Joma ay ang kasaysayan din ng ating pinakamamahal na Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas na ngayon ay nasa ika-54 na taon na nitong paglilingkod sa interes ng sambayanang Pilipino,“ pagtatapos ng Pulang kumander sa kanyang tribya sa araw na iyun.

Balitaan at pagtatanghal

Para higit na pukawin at maengganyo ang mga upisyal at mandirigma ng ACC sa kilusang pag-aaral, inilunsad ang Kapehan at Sigaw ng Bayan.

Ang Kapehan ay isang programang pangkultura para konsolidahin ang isip, pananaw at paninindigan ng mga kadre at Pulang mandirigma bilang sandata sa pagsusulong ng rebolusyon. Pinaksa sa nakaraan ang tres-otso, tatlong demokrasya sa loob ng hukbo, makauring pagmamahalan sa loob ng kilusan at ang walang hanggang pagpapahalaga sa mga tungkulin. Naging kapana-panabik ang Kapehan na tinawag ding “Gabi ng Walang Tanggihan” kung saan hinihingan ng pangkulturang pagtatanghal ang lahat, lalo na ang mga bagong rekrut sa hukbong bayan.

Ang “Sigaw ng Bayan” ay ang programang pambalitaan sa loob ng Pulang himpilan ng ACC na regular na umere sa buong buwan ng Enero. Nahati ito sa dalawang bahagi. Ang una ay ang pagbabalita ng mga rekrut mula sa mga nakalap na balita sa radyo at kalapit na komunidad. Ang programang pambalitaan ay mayroon ding regular na ulat pangkalusugan, tribya para sa dagdag kaalaman at pagtatanghal ng awit o tula.

Habang sa ikalawang bahagi naman ay ang editoryal na pinamagatang “Sulo ng Koprasan” kung saan sinusuri at ipinapahayag ang tindig ng rebolusyunaryong kilusan at masang api sa mga balita at isyung panlipunan. Layunin nitong masanay ang mga kasama sa pagsasalita, pagsusuri at makapagsanay ng propagandista sa hanay ng magsasakang kumander at mandirigma.

Determinado ang komite ng Partido sa probinsya na itaas ang kaalaman at pag-unawa ng mga kadre at Pulang mandirigma sa mga batayang prinsipyo para pamunuan ang iba’t-ibang larangan ng gawain.

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/balitaan-ng-hukbong-bayan-sa-camarines-norte/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Editorial--Ipagtanggol ang soberanya ng bansa sa gitna ng imperyalistang bangayan

Propaganda editorial from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Mar 21, 2023): Ipagtanggol ang soberanya ng bansa sa gitna ng imperyalistang bangayan (Defend the sovereignty of the country in the middle of the imperialist gang)






March 21, 2023

Patuloy na sumisidhi ang inter-imperyalistang bangayan sa gitna ng pang-uupat ng US sa China. Habang tumitindi, lalong hinihigop ang Pilipinas sa alimpuyo ng sigalot na ito. Kinakaharap ng sambayanang Pilipino ang lumalaking posibilidad na ang Pilipinas ay muling maging larangan o lunsaran ng digmaan ng mga imperyalistang kapangyarihan, katulad ng nangyari na sa kasaysayan nang sumiklab ang ikalawang digmang pandaigdig, at pinaggerahan ang bansa ng US at Japan.

Ang ganitong posibilidad ay bunsod ng pagkakanulo ng rehimeng Marcos sa kasarinlan ng bansa sa gitna ng lumalakas at agresibong panghihimasok militar ng mga imperyalista para gamitin ang Pilipinas na moog sa kanilang ribalan. Iginigiit ni Marcos ang patakarang “walang kaaway” para bigyang matwid ang pagiging sunud-sunuran sa plano ng US na magtayo ng karagdagang mga base militar sa loob ng bansa, at ang pagpapakabusabos sa China sa harap ng pagpapalapad ng kapangyarihang pang-ekonomya at pangmilitar sa karagatang saklaw ng teritoryo ng bansa sa West Philippine Sea.

Nagmamadali ngayon ang gubyernong US na magtayo ng hanggang limang karagdagang base militar at mga pasilidad sa loob ng mga kampo ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Para diumano ito sa paghahatid ng tulong kapag may sakuna, pero malinaw na bahagi ng paghahanda ng US ng “teatro ng digmaan” at may layuning itaas ang armadong tensyon sa China. Animo’y panghahamon ang planong maglunsad ng pinagsanib na mga “war exercise,” kabilang ang planong magpakat ng hindi bababa sa 12,000 tropang Amerikano para sa Balikatan sa Abril, sa ngalan ng “pagtatanggol sa kapuluan.”

Bukod sa Pilipinas, pinalalaki rin ng US ang presensyang militar nito sa Japan, Korea at iba pang bansa sa palibot ng China. Ang mga dambuhalang aircraft carrier o barkong pandigma nito ay pirmeng ipinwesto sa mga karagatan sa silangan at kanlurang panig ng Pilipinas, sa karagatan ng Japan at malapit sa Taiwan Strait. Nagbenta ito sa Australia ng dalawang submarinong de-nukleyar upang ibayong palakasin ang presensyang militar ng US at mga alyadong militar nito sa South China Sea.

Pinalalabas ng US na lahat ito’y bahagi ng “military deterrence” o estratehiya ng pagsawata sa China, pero katunaya’y opensibang aksyon ito para itulak ang China gumawa ng ganting aksyon militar. Walang tigil na sinusulsulan ng US ang paghihiwalay ng Taiwan sa China, taliwas sa matagal na nitong One China Policy o pagkilala na bahagi ng China ang Taiwan. Inaabangan ng US ang China na “unang bumunot ng baril” at gamitin ang “pagtatanggol sa Taiwan” para ilunsad ang armadong panghihimasok, katulad nang ginamit nito ang Ukraine para udyukan ang Russia.

Nagbanta kamakailan ang embahada ng China sa Pilipinas na ang planong pagtatayo ng karagdagang mga base militar ng US sa Luzon ay “(pipinsala sa) pambansang interes ng Pilipinas at magsasapanganib ng kapayapaan at katatagan sa rehiyon.” Lalo lamang pinaiigting ng gayong pahayag ang init ng tunggalian. Tahasan nitong nilapastangan ang dignidad ng mga Pilipino sa pagsabi kung ano ang mabuti sa Pilipinas, gayong ito mismo’y nagtayo ng malalaking pasilidad militar sa South China Sea na kumakamkam sa teritoryong pandagat ng Pilipinas at nagkakait ng kabuhayan sa mga mangingisdang Pilipino.

Nasa gitna ngayon ang Pilipinas ng krusyal na yugto sa kasaysayan, sa harap ng lumalaking posibilidad ng pagsiklab ng inter-imperyalistang armadong sigalot. Panahon ngayon na pagtibaying muli ng sambayanang Pilipino ang pagmamahal sa bayan at palakasin ang paninindigang ipagtanggol ang kasarinlan ng bansa. Ang kalayaan at karangalan ng bansa ngayon ay walang habas na nilalapastagan ng mga imperyalistang kapangyarihan sa paggamit nila sa Pilipinas bilang larangan ng kanilang pagpapakitang-gilas, pagmamaniobrang militar at paghahanda sa digmaan.

Dapat magkaisa ang lahat ng Pilipinong nagmamahal sa kalayaan at kapayapaan. Sa gitna ng tumitinding tunggaliang inter-imperyalista, dapat tuligsain ng sambayanang Pilipino ang US at China sa girian at paligsahan sa lakas militar, batikusin ang kanilang paghahanda sa gera na dumadamay sa teritoryo ng Pilipinas, itaguyod ang kasarinlan ng Pilipinas at makibaka para sa tunay na pambansang kalayaan at hindi pagpanig sa ribalan ng mga imperyalistang kapangyarihan.

Dapat tutulan ng sambayanang Pilipino ang pagtatayo ng karagdagang mga baseng militar at pasilidad ng US sa Pilipinas. Dapat palayasin ang lahat ng mga tropang Amerikano, kagamitan at sandatang militar ng US sa Pilipinas. Gayundin, dapat palayasin ang lahat ng barkong pandigma ng China na lumalabag sa teritoryong pandagat ng Pilipinas at nagkakait sa kabuhayan ng mga mangingisdang Pilipino. Dapat labanan ang mapanghamong mga war exercise at itulak ang paglalansag sa lahat ng dayuhang base militar sa Pilipinas, sa US man ang mga ito o sa China.

Dapat patuloy na pahigpitin ng sambayanang Pilipino ang pakikipag-ugnayan at pakikipagkaisa sa ibang mamamayan sa Asia at iba pang panig ng mundo na tumututol sa imperyalistang panghihimasok militar sa kanilang mga bansa. Buuin at palawakin ang nagkakaisang prente para labanan ang inter-imperyalistang paghahanda sa gera upang pigilan ang pagsiklab ng mga ito.

Ang sumisidhing armadong tensyon ng US at China ay manipestasyon ng mabilis na lumulubhang sigalot ng mga imperyalista sa gitna ng matalim na pandaigdigang krisis ng kapitalismo na kinatatampukan ng krisis sa sobrang produksyon at pagsadsad ng tantos ng tubo. Nahuhumaling ngayon ang nangungunang mga kapitalistang kapangyarihan na proteksyunan ang sarili nilang mga ekonomya habang pinalalawak ang kanilang neoliberal na impluwensya at pamumuhunan. Tulad sa nakaraan, humahantong ito sa mga gera para baguhin ang hatian ng mundo sa pagitan ng mga imperyalistang kapangyarihan.

Tutol ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa mga digmaang imperyalista, tuwiran man o gamit ang mga bansa na animo’y pyesa sa larong chess. Pawang nagsisilbi ang mga ito sa interes ng mga monopolyong kapitalista at lumulupig sa interes at kapakanan ng mga bansa at masang anakpawis. Dapat buuin ang pinakamalapad na pagkakaisa laban sa inter-imperyalistang gera. At sakaling sumiklab, dapat itong itransporma sa isang rebolusyonaryong gera o paigtingin ang mga digmang bayan para wakasan ang imperyalistang paghahari at isulong ang sosyalismo para likhain ang bagong sistemang tatapos sa lahat ng digmaan sa buong daigdig.

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

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/03/21/ipagtanggol-ang-soberanya-ng-bansa-sa-gitna-ng-imperyalistang-bangayan/

OPAPRU focused on peace promotion, won't engage in intimidation

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): OPAPRU focused on peace promotion, won't engage in intimidation (By Priam Nepomuceno)



OPAPRU Presidential Assistant Wilben Mayor (File photo)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Tuesday said that it would never be involved in any acts of intimidation as all its initiatives are conflict-sensitive and peace promoting (CSPP).

OPAPRU Presidential Assistant Wilben M. Mayor made this remark
after the Gabriela partylist alleged that the agency's personnel harassed one of its members, Elizabeth Maynigo, last March 17.

“Mariin po nating itinatanggi na nangyari itong insidente na ayon sa Gabriela, involved po ang mga kasamahan natin dito (We strongly deny that this incident, being claimed by Gabriela, involving our personnel)," he said in a statement.

Mayor said OPAPRU is guided by its vision of bringing a "just and lasting peace for the nation and all Filipinos" and its mission "to manage, direct, integrate, and supervise the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Process."


He said these interventions also aim to promote and reinforce national reconciliation and unity based on Executive Order 158, which reorganized the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) as OPAPRU.

Mayor said OPAPRU’s mandate is dovetailed to the Marcos Administration’s Five-Point Peace, Reconciliation and Peace Agenda, which includes the “ending of local communist armed conflict by expanding the transformation programs for local conflict peace process.”

Mayor said this is the reason why the agency is spearheading the Local Peace Engagement (LPE), as well as a transformation program under the government’s “whole-of-nation” approach in addressing the decades-long communist insurgency.

The LPE and its transformation program are being implemented by the National Task Force to Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) LPE Cluster, which is co-chaired by the OPAPRU and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Mayor explained that the LPE aims to help former rebels (FRs), now referred to as "friends rescued," in returning to the fold of the law to reintegrate themselves into mainstream society, and becoming peaceful and productive members of their communities.

Meanwhile, he said the Transformation Program seeks to provide the necessary socio-economic assistance that will enable the FRs to sustain their peace journey and successfully complete their transition into civilian life.

Mayor is confident that the initiatives being carried out by the OPAPRU under the LPE and transformation trogram are now gaining major headway due to the positive changes seen in the lives of FRs and their communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197806

US, PH defense chiefs ‘condemn’ Chinese gray zone ops in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): US, PH defense chiefs ‘condemn’ Chinese gray zone ops in WPS (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III (left) and Department of National Defense Officer in Charge Carlito Galvez Jr. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA – The United States and the Philippines’ defense chiefs “condemned” on Monday night China’s "gray zone" activities in the West Philippine Sea.

In a telephone conversation, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III and Department of National Defense Officer in Charge Carlito Galvez Jr. said these operations “interfere with the livelihoods of local Philippine communities and the rights of other claimant states that seek to operate lawfully in the South China Sea consistent with the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling.”

The two officials expressed concern over China’s “massing of more than 40 vessels,” including a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy ship within the 12-nautical mile territorial sea of Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea this month.

“The swarming of vessels falls on the heels of a dangerous incident last month, in which the PRC Coast Guard directed a military-grade laser against a Philippine vessel operating lawfully around Second Thomas Shoal, temporarily blinding some of the crew,” said a US Department of Defense readout.

Experts define gray-zone activities as operations that fall below the threshold of what constitutes aggression to prevent a country from using self-defense.

In the West Philippine Sea, analysts said gray zone tactics could include the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) invoking Beijing’s “rights” under its so-called historical claims over the West Philippine Sea, and the deployment of maritime militia and fishing vessels in the country’s 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).


READ: Expose Chinese activities in SCS to counter ‘harassment’, PH told

In February, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed before an international security conference that the Philippines had experienced “daily incidents” of harassment within its EEZ.

The following month, the Philippine Coast Guard recorded the presence of at least 42 suspected Chinese maritime militia ships, a CCG, and a PLA Navy vessel anchored off Pag-asa Island, which is the seat of the local government of Kalayaan, Palawan.

Austin, during the phone call, guaranteed Washington DC’s “unwavering alliance commitment” with Manila and reiterated that the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to Philippine armed forces, aircraft, and public vessels, including Coast Guard ships, “anywhere in the South China Sea.”

Both officials also discussed plans to conduct combined maritime activities in the South China Sea and agreed to review the "full range of US-Philippine maritime cooperation" during upcoming foreign and defense ministerial dialogue.

The dialogue, dubbed as 2+2 meetings, is scheduled "sometime in the middle of April," according to Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez.

Austin and Galvez also anticipate the upcoming operational engagements between the US and Philippine Armed Forces, including during the Balikatan 2023 in April, which will be the largest iteration of the joint military drills with more than 17,000 participating troops.

Apart from Philippine-US defense relations, Austin and Galvez discussed the forthcoming US support to contain and mitigate the ecological damage stemming from an oil spill off the coast of Mindoro Oriental.

Austin also offered his condolences to Galvez for the recent murder of former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and eight other individuals.

The phone call was made hours after the groundbreaking of the USD24 million runway rehabilitation project at Basa Air Base, one of the approved projects under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, on Monday.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197815

New ACG chief vows stronger crackdown vs. cybercrime

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): New ACG chief vows stronger crackdown vs. cybercrime (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



(Photo courtesy of ACG)

MANILA – Newly installed Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (ACG) director Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia vowed a stronger campaign against cybercriminals and their activities.

Hernia, the unit's 14th director, stressed the need to cultivate a culture of cybersecurity where it becomes a priority at all levels in the PNP.


“As the world is increasingly interconnected, everyone shares the responsibility of securing cyberspace. Enjoined everyone to give utmost priority to implementing cyber-resiliency measures to enhance the organization’s capabilities and capacities in addressing cybercrime,” Hernia said in his message during the turnover ceremony presided by Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, Deputy Chief PNP for Administration in Camp Crame on Monday.

Hernia believed that for a police commissioned officer into an all-seasoned leader, he has to come out of his comfort zone and find his nest in other areas where he will have the opportunity to hone his leadership potential and sharpen his skills.

“I know this will be a challenging call to my leadership, but I wholeheartedly accept it,” said Hernia, who was a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Tanglaw Diwa Class of 1992 where he graduated as the Class Magna Cum Laude.

The event was attended by some classmates of Hernia, ACG’s Command Group, division chiefs, and district team leaders in the Metro Manila while the different regional chiefs were watching the event online.

Hernia switched posts with Brig. Gen. Joel Doria, who is now the chief of the Police Regional Office-Mimaropa.

Doria, meanwhile, congratulated Hernia and wished him well as he takes on the challenge to continue the fight against all forms of cybercrimes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197810

AFP, PNP reaffirm partnership in preserving PH peace, dev't

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): AFP, PNP reaffirm partnership in preserving PH peace, dev't (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



(Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) reaffirmed their strong partnership in securing the country from all forms of security threats.

"The collaboration of the PNP and AFP is a very important role that both of our organizations should perform at the highest level of dedication and professionalism," AFP chief of staff Gen. Andres Centino said during Monday's flag-raising ceremony at Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City where he was guest of honor and speaker on Monday.

As guest of honor, the AFP chief presented awards and medals to 10 PNP personnel from different Police Regional Offices (PROs) who were cited for significant accomplishments in recent police operations.


He also praised the awardees for their bravery and dedication to their duty.

“While the AFP is entrusted to address insurgency and the PNP is mandated to provide support to the AFP in this aspect, it is also the PNP which is entrusted to be at the forefront in maintaining peace and order in our country. And in the same manner, the AFP is mandated to provide law enforcement support operations to the PNP in ensuring peace and order in our country,” he added.

Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. touted the gains of the robust partnership between the police force and the military.

"We have seen firsthand the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform have made to ensure the well-being of our citizens. Our anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts have been successful in countering the threats of violence and unrest in the country," Azurin said.

“Our joint operations have prevented the escalation of violence, ensured the safety of our people, and protected our nation. The rapport between the PNP and AFP in the fight against communist insurgency and terrorism has been remarkable, and we should continue to strengthen our cooperation in this regard," he added.

Azurin urged both military and police personnel to remain dedicated to safeguarding national interest and uphold peace and order. (with Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197807

PH, UK back calls for stability in Indo-Pacific Region

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): PH, UK back calls for stability in Indo-Pacific Region (By Priam Nepomuceno) March 21, 2023, 4:02 pm



UK Ambassador to Manila Laure Beaufils (left) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vice chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura (right) (Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – The Philippines and the United Kingdom (UK) have both expressed strong support to calls for stability and security in the Indo-Pacific Region.

This came following the courtesy call of UK Ambassador to Manila Laure Beaufils to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vice chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.

"During their meeting, Ambassador Beaufils and the VCSAFP (Vice Chief of Staff AFP) discussed issues of mutual concern, including regional stability and international maritime law," said AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor in a statement.

The two officials also affirmed security cooperation between Manila and London.


"They also stressed the importance of continued security and defense cooperation and welcomed possible future security engagements between the Philippines and the UK," he added.

The meeting is part of the AFP's international defense and security engagements.

"They also discussed and supported each other's initiatives to maintain stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region against the backdrop of rules-based order and international law," Baclor said.

Beaufils relayed the developments in the UK's foreign and security policies in the Indo-Pacific, including the recently announced Australia-UK-US submarine program and the UK-Japan-Italy fighter jet development partnership.

She added that these, along with the persistent presence of the UK's naval vessels in international waters of the Indo-Pacific, are part of the UK's long-term investment in the region.

Cordura also extended the AFP's gratitude to the UK for supporting its capacity enhancement through training and high-level exchanges.

"He also acknowledged the ongoing intelligence information sharing and expressed the AFP's openness to future multilateral engagements with the UK and other allies that will promote common interests," Baclor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197852

Army seizes guns after clash with NPA in Sarangani

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): Army seizes guns after clash with NPA in Sarangani (By Edwin Fernandez)



RECOVERED WEAPONS. Three high-powered firearms and other war materials are seized by the Army from the New People’s Army (NPA) following a firefight in Kiamba, Sarangani, on March 19, 2023. Also seized are subversive documents, mobile phones, and other personal belongings. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao Norte – The Philippine Army has recovered three high-powered firearms and other war materiel following a clash with communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Sarangani province, the Army said Tuesday.

Major Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and concurrent head of Joint Task Force Central, said operating troops from the 38th Infantry Battalion clashed with 20 members of the rebel group in Barangay Gasi, Kiamba town, on Sunday.

Troops were believed to have encountered the group of a certain commander Rafa of the NPA Regional Headquarters-Far South Mindanao Region, Rillera said.

After a 20-minute firefight, the rebels withdrew, bringing with them their wounded comrades.


“An officer of the 38IB officer was also wounded and the fatalities on the enemy side are yet to be determined,” Rillera said.

While scouring the encounter site, government troops recovered three high-powered firearms that included two M16 rifles and an M14 rifle.

Also recovered were four bandoliers, a medical kit, five jungle packs, two mobile phones, NPA propaganda materials, and personal belongings.


Rillera said soldiers under the 1st Mechanized Brigade continue to conduct pursuit operations against the rebels in Kiamba and nearby municipalities as of posting time.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197845

No security vacuum in Bohol with pullout of 47IB

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): No security vacuum in Bohol with pullout of 47IB (By Mary Judaline Partlow)



TRANSFER. A Philippine Navy ship transports the Army's 47th Infantry Battalion's troops, equipment, vehicles and logistics to Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental on Monday (March 20, 2023). This was after the battalion transferred its headquarters from Bohol to Negros Island. (Photo courtesy of Joint Task Force Negros)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The transfer of the Philippine Army’s 47th Infantry Battalion (47IB) to Negros Island will not leave a vacuum in the government’s internal security operations (ISO) in Bohol province, a key Army official assured on Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Leonardo Peña, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview that a Task Group Bohol has been created to ensure that the Communist Party of the Philippines-News People’s Army (CPP-NPA) there could no longer recoup.

Bohol is part of the 302nd IBde’s area of operations.


“Despite the Bohol party committee being dismantled already, with only less than 10 armed NPA rebels left, we cannot let our guard down because as I have previously pointed out, for every one of them, there would be at least 10 supporters,” Peña said in mixed English and Filipino.

He reassured the public that they will not leave Bohol because there is still an integrated territorial defense system there that requires their presence.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has organized Task Group Bohol, headed by Maj. Jason Torino as overall commander, and is composed of the 47IB’s Delta Company leading the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliaries (CAAs) and the 21st Special Forces company, Peña said.

The 47IB, meanwhile, arrived on board a Philippine Navy ship at the Dumaguete City port on Monday to form part of the Special Joint Task Force (JTF) Negros.

The battalion will be headquartered at the boundaries of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental and Mabinay, Negros Oriental, JTF Negros spokesperson Maj. Gen. Cenon Pancito III said.


“Actually, the 47IB already has an existing presence in Negros Oriental since last year when some of its troops were deployed in the south of the province before the elections,” Pancito noted.

The battalion’s transfer here is in line with the creation of the JTF Negros which was created pursuant to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to curb lawlessness, violence and criminality.

The JTF’s main task is to hunt down the rest of the suspects in the March 4 massacre in Pamplona where nine people were shot dead, including Gov. Roel Degamo.

Five of the 10 suspects are now in the custody of government authorities while another one was killed in an encounter with pursuing troops, Pancito said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197823

New police director vows to maintain peace and order in Region 11

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): New police director vows to maintain peace and order in Region 11 (By Che Palicte)



NEW DIRECTOR. Brig. Gen. Alden Delvo, the new director of the Police Regional Office in Davao Region (PRO-11), accepts the properties and equipment inventory book during the turnover of command on Monday (March 20, 2023) at the Camp Sgt. Quintin Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City. He replaced Brig. Gen. Benjamin Silo Jr. who is now the new head of the Philippine National Police-Civil Security Group. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)

DAVAO CITY – Brig. Gen. Alden Delvo, the newly installed director of the Police Regional Office in Davao Region (PRO-11), has vowed to maintain peace and order in the area.

Delvo, who replaced Brig. Gen. Benjamin Silo Jr. in a turnover ceremony on Monday, emphasized the importance of continuous efforts to ensure peace and order in the region, which is a primary concern of the Philippine National Police (PNP).


Delvo outlined his guiding principles for the PRO-11 personnel during his speech, stating that police officers should always be aware of their sworn duties and provide good service to the people.

He emphasized that policemen from the rank of patrolman to captains should conduct patrolling and be well-versed in investigation, and that commanders and head of offices should guide their subordinates well.

He said the opinion of the people of Davao should be considered as a gauge of the services rendered by PRO-11.

Before his appointment, Delvo served as chief of the Area Police Command in Eastern Mindanao and was a former police officer in Davao City.

He was also named one of the ten outstanding policemen of the Philippines in 2009.


Delvo is one of those included in the major reshuffling of commands order by PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin last week.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197817

NPA fighter, scout ranger killed in Northern Samar clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): NPA fighter, scout ranger killed in Northern Samar clash (By Sarwell Meniano)



CLASH SITE. A view of rural communities in Silvino Lubos town, Northern Samar province near the site of an encounter between soldiers and rebels. A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel and an army scout ranger died in a clash on Monday (March 20, 2023). (Photo courtesy of Silvino Lubos Spotted)

TACLOBAN CITY – A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) and a soldier died in a clash between rebels and government troops in the upland Geparayan De Turag village in Silvino Lubos town, Northern Samar province on Monday.

The troops of the Army’s 4th Scout Ranger Battalion found the body of a still-unidentified male rebel and recovered an M16 rifle after an afternoon encounter with seven NPA combatants belonging to the group's Front Committee 1.

Also killed during the 20-minute gun battle was army scout ranger Private Modesto Lutob.


Philippine Army 803rd Infantry Brigade commander Col. Efren Morados said in a statement on Tuesday troops were responding to a tip from a resident of Geparayan de Turag village regarding a group of armed men doing extortion activities.

The terrorists scampered in different directions after the clash.

"We will relentlessly pursue the rebels until they stop their terroristic acts against the people,” Morados said.

Samar Island is considered the last bastion of insurgency in the country with four of the last five remaining guerilla fronts operating in the boundaries of three Samar provinces.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197827

Army mourns death of soldier in Masbate clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): Army mourns death of soldier in Masbate clash (By Connie Calipay)



SLAIN SOLDIER. Cpl. Antonio Parreño Jr., the soldier killed during a clash with rebels on Monday (March 20, 2023) in Cawayan town, Masbate province. The gun battle occurred after soldiers responded to a report by villagers about an armed group in the area. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

LEGAZPI CITY – The Philippine Army (PA) is mourning the death of a soldier who was killed in a clash on Monday with New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Villahermosa, Cawayan town in Masbate province.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, commander of the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), extended his condolences to the bereaved family of Cpl. Antonio Parreño Jr. while assuring justice for his death.

"Ako po, sampu ng buong pwersa 9ID ay taos pusong nakikiramay sa naulilang pamilya ni Cpl. Parreño. Alam ko po na hindi madaling tanggapin ang nangyari, ngunit tinitiyak po ng JTFB na hindi masasayang ang pagbubuwis niya ng kanyang buhay. Dahil dito, magtutuloy-tuloy po ang operasyon ng ating mga tropa upang supilin ang CTG (communist terrorist group) lalo na dito sa Bicolandia (I, together with the entire force of 9ID, sincerely sympathize with the bereaved family of Cpl. Parreño, I know that it is not easy to accept what happened but the JTFB assures that his sacrifice will not be wasted. Because of this, the operation of our troops will continue to suppress the CTG especially here in Bicolandia)," Bajao said.

In a report, Capt. Frank Roldan, 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, said the 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) troops received information from villagers on the presence of armed men in their area.

"The 2IB troops launched an operation in the said area where they encountered 12 members of the CTG which lasted for five minutes and killed Cpl. Antonio Parreño Jr. Also, blood stains were seen in the direction of the fleeing groups," Roldan said.

The Army official said several weapons were seized by the soldiers at the scene of the encounter, including "an R4 assault rifle, an improvised pellet gun, three cellphones, two anti-personnel mines, a pair of binoculars, two improvised explosive devices, four blasting caps, wires and other personal equipment of terrorists."


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197818

Air Force to establish satellite radar station in Antique

 From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): Air Force to establish satellite radar station in Antique (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)



SATELLITE RADAR. Brig. Gen. Ronie D. Petinglay, commander of the 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), speaks before the Antique Provincial Board where he presented their plan to establish a satellite radar station in Mt. Liwliw in the Municipality of Anini-y on Monday (March 20, 2023). Board Member Pio Jessielito Sumande, Sr., committee chair on peace and order and public safety, said on Tuesday (March 21) they support the establishment of the radar facility. (PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The Antique Provincial Board has given its nod to the proposed establishment of the satellite radar station of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in Mt. Liwliw in the municipality of Anini-y.

The plan was presented by Brig. Gen. Ronie Petinglay, commander of the 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), to the Provincial Board during Monday’s regular session, said Board Member Pio Jessielito Sumande, Sr., chair of the committee on peace and order and public safety, in an interview Tuesday.

The satellite radar station will form part of the PAF Integrated Air Defense System capabilities.


“There was a full support expressed by the provincial board members during our session because of the advantages that it could bring,” Sumande said.

The establishment of the facility will pave the way for the construction of a road making the mountainous area of the municipality accessible to the public while the presence of the personnel could also hasten humanitarian services for the people.

The satellite radar could also be a tourist attraction, Sumande added.

The area where the radar station is proposed to be set up used to host a similar American facility from the 1980s until 1992 as part of the RP-US Military Bases Treaty.

Sumande said he will be coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) since the area is public land and government-owned.

The Board Member said the PAF needs at least 15 to 30 hectares of land for the satellite radar station and other eventual facilities to be put up.

He will also be passing a resolution addressed to Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao, Representative Antonio Agapito Legarda, and Coop-Natcco Partylist Rep. Felimon Espares for a fund allocation for the concreting of the road from Barangay Fatima in Anini-y going to Mt. Liwliw in Barangay Tagaytay. The two-kilometer road construction will cost at least PHP20 million.

PAF Tactical Operations Group 6 Commander, Lieutenant Col. Ramedinthine Tolentino, in a separate interview, said their satellite radar can help secure the population within the periphery because it could detect incoming and outgoing unauthorized aircraft.

“Whenever the Civil Aviation Authority in the Philippines (CAAP) radar at the Antique Airport has a problem then the PAF radar can augment it,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197849

3 NPA rebels surrender in Sorsogon

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): 3 NPA rebels surrender in Sorsogon (By Connie Calipay)



Police Regional Office-5 (Bicol) headquarters in Legazpi City (PNA file photo)

LEGAZPI CITY – Three New People's Army (NPA) rebels operating in Sorsogon province have voluntarily surrendered to authorities on Monday, a Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol) official said.

In an interview, Lt. Col Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, said the relentless efforts of the Bicol police to persuade NPA members to return to the fold of the law paid off.

"In the municipality of Casiguran, the 42 years old logistic officer and the 61 years old member of Platoon 1, Larangan 1, Komite ng Probinsya 3 personally yielded to authorities. Both of them surrendered at the Sorsogon 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company. A 39-year-old member of L1, KP1 Sorsogon under Celso Minguez Command also quit the armed movement and surrendered at Sorsogon City Police Station," Calubaquib said.


She said the three manifested intention to renew allegiance and trust to the government and promised to obey the orders of authorities.

"After years of deception, these three finally found their way out of the left-leaning organization and free themselves from fraud, sabotage, and violence," she added.

Calubaquib added that the surrenderers will undergo a seminar as one of the requirements in the processing of their benefits under the E-CLIP or the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program accorded to all rebels who opt to return to the fold of the government and live with their families in peace.

"E-CLIP is an encouraging scheme that promotes reconciliation in a non-violent manner. It is a program of the government that aims to provide a complete package of assistance to former rebels," she said.

Brig. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque, PRO5 regional director, welcomed the surrenderers with arms wide open and gave them assurance that the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol, in cooperation with other government agencies, shall converge in a whole-of-nation approach to provide them with opportunities for the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace to end local communist armed conflict.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197819

34 loose firearms surrendered in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): 34 loose firearms surrendered in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



LOOSE GUNS. Mayor Nursiya Ismael of Lantawan town, Basilan province, hands over 34 loose firearms to military authorities in a ceremony Monday (March 20, 2023), at the headquarters of the 19th Special Forces Company in Isabela City, the province's capital. Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan, said the firearms were surrendered by residents from different barangays of Lantawan town. (Photo courtesy of JTF-Basilan)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Thirty-four firearms were surrendered by residents of Lantawan town, Basilan province as a result of the collaboration between the municipal government and military authorities in the campaign against unlicensed guns, officials reported on Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of Joint Task Force (JTF)-Basilan, said the surrendered firearms included two M16 rifles, a grenade launcher, four Garand rifles, a Carbine rifle, five shotguns, an Uzi submachine gun, and a KG9 machine pistol.

Also turned in were short firearms consisting of 14 .38-caliber pistols, two .45-caliber pistols, a .357-caliber pistol, and two .22-caliber pistols.

Lantawan Mayor Nursiya Ismael handed over the firearms to the military during a ceremonial turnover on Monday at the headquarters of the 19th Special Forces Company (SFC) in Isabela City, the province's capital.

Col. Frederick Sales, Gobway's deputy, said the firearms' surrender was a result of the military’s implementation of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program.


The firearms were deposited at the 19SFC headquarters for safekeeping.

JTF-Basilan reported that 370 loose firearms were surrendered since last year, while 4,323 were stenciled through the SALW program.

“We commit to continuing our efforts to free the communities from the cradle of violence and sustain peace in Basilan and its nearby provinces,” said Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Western Mindanao Command chief, commending the JTF-Basilan and local officials for the achievement in the province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197867

NegOcc guv enjoins peace councils to back advocacies of AFP, PNP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2023): NegOcc guv enjoins peace councils to back advocacies of AFP, PNP (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



MEETING. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson (center), the chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council 6 (Western Visayas), presides over the body's first quarter meeting held at the District 21 Hotel in Iloilo City on Tuesday (March 21, 2023). He was joined by Regional Director Juan Jovian Ingeniero of the Department of the Interior and Local Government 6 (left) and Brig. Gen. Leo Francisco, director of Police Regional Office 6. (Photo courtesy of DILG-6)

BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson, the newly-appointed chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) 6 (Western Visayas), has enjoined the local councils to continue supporting the peace advocacies of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Lacson, who thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the trust and confidence in choosing him to lead the council, made the call as he convened the RPOC-6 for the first quarter meeting at the District 21 Hotel in Iloilo City on Tuesday.

"To all the local POCs, let us continue to support our AFP and police forces in their peace advocacies. And in extending our invitation for reintegration to all our brothers and sisters in conflict with the government, it is not enough to just open the doors of peace. We, in the government, must extend our hand farther to usher and uplift not just the returnees, but also those affected by the conflict," he said in his message.

He added that the efforts of those in the government must include the provision of enabling and capacitating mechanisms, and everyone must be included in the process for the attainment of the common goals for peace and progress.

"This will be the start of a better understanding between all sectors and of limiting the discord," he said.

Lacson said the creation of POCs is "a recognition of the fact that by promoting participatory governance and active participation of all sectors in the pursuit of the country’s peace agenda," the rifts that divide the nation and the roots of conflicts would be addressed.

"The best way to achieve this is to know from the people themselves, what they need and what we can do to help them. And this is exactly what we are tasked to do, since as a council, we have to ensure that issues and concerns raised by the sub-regional POCs will be duly addressed by the body or may be referred to the concerned member agencies," he added.

In presiding over the meeting, Lacson was joined by DILG-6 Regional Director Juan Jovian Ingeniero and Brig. Gen. Leo Francisco, director of Police Regional Office (PRO) 6.

Among those discussed were the approval of resolutions reorganizing and expanding the membership of the RPOC-6 and updates on the insurgency and peace and order situation, anti-illegal drugs campaign, and other peace and public safety concerns in Western Visayas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1197874