11 Daulah Islamiyah members surender

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Jun 23, 2024): 11 Daulah Islamiyah members surender

ZAMBOANGA. Eleven members of the Daulah Islamiyah (DI) terrorist group surrender to government authorities in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, on Friday, June 21. A photo handout shows some of the firearms handed over to the military by the DI members where they surrendered. (SunStar Zamboanga)

ELEVEN members of the Daulah Islamiyah (DI) terrorist group have surrendered to government authorities in the province of Maguindanao del Sur, the military said Sunday, June 23.

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said the Army’s 6th Infantry Battalion (IB) facilitated the surrender of the 11 DI members on Friday, June 21, in Buayan village, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, in a continuous pursuit to end terrorism.

The Westmincom said the 11 DI surrenderers belong to the DI-Turaife group (DI-TG). They handed over seven high-powered firearms and four low-powered firearms.

The surrendered firearms include one Bushmaster rifle, three 40-millimeter (mm) M-79 Grenade Launchers, one caliber .30 Sniper rifle, one 60-mm Mortar, one 7.62-mm Sniper rifle, Two 9-mm Uzi, one caliber .45 pistol, and one caliber .38 revolver.

The surrendered weapons were deposited at the headquarters of 6IB for safekeeping and proper disposition.

Lieutenant General William Gonzales, commander of Westmincom, lauded the 6IB for its continuous effort to destabilize the remaining rebel groups in Maguindanao del Sur.

Gonzales also encouraged the remaining militants to return to the folds of the law and commit to a harmonious life.

“The surrender of the 11 DI-TG members is a testament to the relentless effort of the military to end terrorism in the areas inflicted by these rebel groups. We will ensure that this development will go on until terrorism is fully eradicated,” Gonzales said.

He said the 11 DI surrenderers will be enrolled in Agila-Haven Program of the provincial government of Maguindanao del Sur, a platform that gives the former rebels the opportunity to start anew and receive livelihood opportunities and other assistance after successful surrender.

He added they will also be included in the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (Tugon) program of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/11-daulah-islamiyah-members-surender

Marcos awards Navy troops hurt in Rore mission

From the Sun Star-Manila (Jun 23, 2024): Marcos awards Navy troops hurt in Rore mission (By Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo)

PALAWAN. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. awarded on Sunday, June 23, 2024, the Philippine Navy personnel who took part in the routine rotation and resupply (Rore) mission to Ayungin Shoal on June 17.Photo from Bongbong Marcos FB page

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. awarded on Sunday, June 23, 2024, the Philippine Navy personnel who took part in the routine rotation and resupply (Rore) mission to Ayungin Shoal on June 17.

Marcos bestowed the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kampilan to Seaman First Class Underwater Operator Jeffrey Facundo, who lost a thumb due to China Coast Guard’s “intentional high-speed ramming” of a Philippine vessel.

The others who were part of the mission received the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kamagi.

In his speech, the chief executive commended the troops for exercising “greatest restraints amidst intense provocation.”

“You demonstrated to the world that the Filipino spirit is one that is brave, determined, and yet is compassionate,” said Marcos.

Marcos urged the troops to continue fulfilling their duties of defending the nation with integrity and respect, reiterating that the Philippines does not instigate war, as its goal is to provide a peaceful and prosperous life for every Filipino.

“We refuse to play by the rules that force us to choose sides in a great power competition. No government that truly exists in the service of the people will invite danger or harm to lives and livelihood. And that is why, in defending the nation, we stay true to our Filipino nature that we would like to settle all these issues peacefully,” he said.

“And in the performance of our duties, we will not resort to the use of force or intimidation, or deliberately inflict injury or harm to anyone. But at the same time, we stand firm. Our calm and peaceful disposition should not be mistaken for acquiescence. History itself can tell that we have never, never in the history of the Philippines, yielded to any foreign power,” he added.

The President reassured the troops that the nation will continue to rally behind them and that the National Government will continue to provide all their needs and look after their welfare as well as their families.

Harassment

On June 17, CCG personnel harassed navy personnel who were conducting a Rore mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. They used tear gas, pointed troops bladed weapons, punctured the Philippine Navy’s rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) and destroyed the communication system of the boat as well as the cellphones of the Filipino personnel.
It took around 12 hours to rescue the wounded personnel due to the continued harassment of China.

The CCG earlier said their personnel boarded a Philippine ship to conduct an “inspection” after it “illegally” intruded their territorial waters off Ren'ai Reef, locally known as Ayungin Shoal in the South China Sea.

It said it is in accordance with their regulation that “trespassers” in the South China Sea should be arrested.

The CCG maintained that their actions were "reasonable, lawful, professional and standardized" as it warned the Philippines against any form of infringement or provocation as “futile.”

China refused to recognize the arbitral ruling invalidating their claim of almost the entire WPS. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/marcos-awards-navy-troops-hurt-in-rore-mission

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Maysakit na bilanggong pulitikal, giit na palayain sa makataong batayan

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (in Tagalog) propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) PRWC Website (Jun 23, 2024): Maysakit na bilanggong pulitikal, giit na palayain sa makataong batayan (Sick political prisoner, insisting on release on humanitarian grounds)

 

June 23, 2024

Muling nanawagan ang mga grupo sa karapatang-tao na Karapatan-Central Visayas at Samahan ng Ex-detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto (SELDA) na palayain ang lubhang maysakit na bilanggong pulitikal na si Ernesto Jude Rimando Jr. Inaresto si Rimando noong Enero 6, 2021 at ikinulong sa Metro Manila District Jail-Annex 2 sa Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City.

Dumaranas ng napakaraming sakit si Rimando kabilang ang Stage 4 liver cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at pulmonary tuberculosis. Noong Mayo 18, dinala siya sa Philippine General Hospital (PGH) para sa pagsusuri at napag-alamang naging Stage 4 liver cancer ang kanyang sakit na liver cirrhosis at mayroon na lamang tatlong buwan para mabuhay kung hindi magagamot. Bago nito, limang beses na siyang naglabas-pasok sa ospital.

Noong Hunyo 19, naghain ng petisyon si Atty. Kristian Lora ng Visayas Community Law Center, abugado ni Rimando, sa isang korte sa Bohol para palayain siya batay sa “recognizance” sa makataong mga batayan. Ang ganitong tipo ng pansamantalang kalayaan ay ipinagkakaloob sa mga maituturing na “low-risk” at mababa ang posibilidad na tumakas.

Inihain ni Attorney Lora ang petisyon para mapagbigyan si Rimando na makasama ang kanyang pamilya sa nalalabi niyang mga araw. Sumang-ayon na rin sina Atty. Federico Quevedo at dating Quezon City Rep. Atty. Christopher Belmonte na magsilbi bilang mga “legal custodian” ni Rimando at magtitiyak na haharap sa korte ang bilanggo kapag ipinatawag.

Nilalaman ng petisyon na kung mapahihintulutan ito ng korte, mananatili si Rimando sa PGH para sa paggagamot sa kanya para man lamang mabigyan siya ng “ginhawa, alwan, suporta at para matugunan ang mga sintomas ng kanyang seryosong kundisyong medikal para mapaunlad ang kalidad ng kanyang buhay.”

Si Rimado, sa mahabang panahon, ay nagsilbing tagapagsaliksik ng Alyansa sa mga Mamumuo sa Sugbo. Nagpunta siya sa Metro Manila noong 2020 para magpagamot sa kanyang sakit na liver cirrhosis at sepsis. Bago pa siya makapagpagamot, inaresto siya sa Quezon City.

Mas malupit, siya ay piniringan, tinortyur at agad na ipinailalim sa interogasyon. Pinalabas ng mga umaresto sa kanya na nakakumpiska ng mga baril at granada sa kanyang tinutuluyang apartment. Gumawa ng warrant of arrest ang mga pwersa ng estado sa pangalang “Allan Morales” at ipinagpipilitang iyon si Rimando. Ibinasura ng korte ang mga kasong ito noong Abril 2023 pero nananatili siyang nakakulong dahil sa iba pang mga kaso sa pangalang “Allan Morales” sa Visayas.

“Kumbaga, may taning na nga ang buhay nya, pahihirapan pa sa pagkakakulong niya. Hindi ito makatarungan. Dapat kagyat na siyang palayain at mabigyan ng karampatan at tuluy-tuloy na pagkakataon na makapagpagamot. Hindi makatao ang panatilihin siyang detenido,” pahayag ni Danah Marie Marcellana, tagapagsalita ng SELDA.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/maysakit-na-bilanggong-pulitikal-giit-na-palayain-sa-makataong-batayan/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Bahay ng tagasuporta ng ginigipit na organisasyong pangkaunlaran sa Negros, nireyd ng 15th IB

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (in Tagalog) propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) PRWC Website (Jun 23, 2024): Bahay ng tagasuporta ng ginigipit na organisasyong pangkaunlaran sa Negros, nireyd ng 15th IB (House of a supporter of a beleaguered development organization in Negros, raided by the 15th IB0

 

June 23, 2024

Pinalibutan at sapilitang pinasok ng mga sundalo ng 15th IB ang bahay ng mangingisdang si Joselito Macapobre sa Guiljungan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental noong Hunyo 11. Si Macapobre ay tagasuporta ng organisasyong pangkaunlaran na Paghida-et sa Kauswagan Development Group Incorporated (PDG Inc) na pinararatangan ng rehimeng Marcos na sangkot sa “terrorism financing.”

Dalawang araw bago ang insidente, ipinatawag si Macapobre ng mga sundalo para ipaatras ang kanyang salaysay na sumusuporta sa kontra-salaysay ng mga istap ng PDG Inc na isinumite laban sa mga nagsampa ng kasong “terrorism financing” sa kanila. Dagdag dito, nakapansin din si Macapobre ng dalawang tao na sakay ng motorsiklo na nagmamanman sa kanya.

Kinundena ng Human Rights Advocates Negros (HRAN) ang 15th IB sa tinawag nilang pagbabanta sa buhay ni Macapobre. Nauna nang binatikos ng HRAN ang panggigipit ng estado sa PDG Inc sa pagsasampa ng tinawag nitong gawa-gawang mga kaso laban sa limang istap at katuwang ng grupo.

Ang kasong “terrorism financing” ay isinampa ang PMSG Francisco John Dumdumaya, deputized Anti-money Laundering Council Financial Investigator at kasapi ng Regional Intelligence Division ng PNP Regional Police Office 6. Ibinatay ito sa sinumpaang mga salaysay ng nagpapakilalang “finance and logistics officer at kumander ng “Tahod Ilahas Command ng CPP-NPA” na nag-ooperasyon diumano sa Negros na si Jonel Roy Moreno at nina Danilo at Jeonna Dela Cruz na nagpapakilalang mga kasapi ng lokal na samahan ng mga mangingisda sa Cauayan, Negros Occidental.

Ang PDG Inc ay isang organisasyon sa sentral at timog na bahagi ng Negros Island at nagsusulong ng karapatan ng mga magsasaka at mga mangingisda para sa sustenableng agrikultura at repormang panlipunan. Itinatag ang organisasyon noong dekada 1980.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/bahay-ng-tagasuporta-ng-ginigipit-na-organisasyong-pangkaunlaran-sa-negros-nireyd-ng-15th-ib/

CPP/NPA-Kalinga/Ilocos-Cordillera ROC: Papanagutin ang rehimeng US-Marcos Jr at AFP sa labis-labis na karahasan kontra sa mamamayan!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 23, 2024): Papanagutin ang rehimeng US-Marcos Jr at AFP sa labis-labis na karahasan kontra sa mamamayan! (The US-Marcos Jr regime and AFP will be held accountable for excessive violence against the people!)

 


Tipon Gil-Ayab

Spokesperson

NPA-Kalinga

Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Operational Command (Chadli Molintas Command)

New People's Army

June 23, 2024

Noong Mayo 31 at June 7, 2024 ay nangyari ang serye ng mga labanan sa pagitan ng LCC-NPA Kalinga at tatlong batalyong nakapaloob sa 503rd Infantry Brigade ng Philippine Army (PA) sa munisipyo ng Balbalan. Sa nasabing mga labanan, matagumpay na nakuha ng mga kasamang Pulang mandirigma ang inisyatiba, hinarap at binira ang operasyong combat ng kaaway kahit pa gumamit ang mga ito ng labis-labis na pwersa at bomba. Sa datos mismo ng AFP ay mayroon silang apat na nasugatan at dalawang nasawi, habang sa panig ng NPA ay sugatan at nahuli ng kaaway si Gap-iden “Ka Simple” Bawit. Ginamot siya ng mga medic ng NPA at naipasa sa masa upang maipagamot. Dapat respetuhin ang kanyang karapatan bilang hors de combat.

Samantala bilang paglilinaw, ang sinasabing isa pang labanan sa Barangay Maling, Balbalan noong umaga ng Mayo 31 ay isang pekeng labanan at gawa-gawa lamang ng AFP. Sa katotohanan, dinakip nila ang isang masa. Pinaputukan at pinaratangan siyang NPA gayong maliwanag sa mga nakasaksi at nakarinig ng balita na sibilyan ang naturang indibidwal.

Mariing kinukundena ng LCC NPA-Kalinga ang paghulog ng kaaway ng di bababa sa 12 bomba at paggamit ng drone at helicopter para sa walang-habas na pamamaril mula sa ere (strafing) na nagdulot ng matinding takot sa sibilyang populasyon. Ang lugar na kanilang binomba ay production area na malapit sa kabahayan ng Barangay Maling at pinanggagalingan ng irigasyon ng palayan ng komunidad. Naitaon ang pambobomba sa panahon ng anihan. May gana pang itanggi ng Army, PNP at ng mismong Mayor ng Balbalan ang nangyaring pambobomba gayong dinig na dinig at kitang-kita kahit sa mga kanugnog na barangay ang mga drone at helicopter na naghulog ng mga bomba. Kahit ang mga estudyanteng nasa paaralan sa mga oras na iyon ay nakadama ng matinding takot dahil sa yanig at lakas ng pagsabog. Responsable at dapat managot ang 503rd Infantry Brigade sa pinsalang dinulot nito sa kabuhayan at mental na kalagayan ng mga masa sa nasabing lugar.

Nananawagan ang LCC NPA-Kalinga sa mga mamamayan ng Kalinga at maging sa simpatisador at nagsusulong ng karapatang-tao na ihabla ang kaso laban sa paglapastangan ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr at AFP sa International Humanitarian Law (IHL) o pandaigdigang batas ng digma. Papanagutin sila sa pinsalang dinulot nila sa mga komunidad na ginagambala ng kanilang mga operasyong militar at walang-habas na terorismo sa himpapawid gamit ang mga drone at helicopter.

Ang serye ng mga labanang ito ay nagpapasinungaling sa deklarasyon ng kaaway na wala o humina na ang NPA sa Kalinga. Binabanggit ng AFP na 10 na lamang ang natitirang NPA sa Kalinga, ngunit gumagamit sila ng malalaking bilang ng pwersa, mga drone at helicopter. Nagaaksaya sila ng pondo ng bayan para sa walang saysay na programa kontra-insurhensiya imbes na gamitin para sa ayuda sa panahon ng El Nino at krisis sa kabuhayan ng masa.

Sa harap ng tumitinding krisis pang-ekonomya, pananakot at pandarahas ang sagot ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr. imbes na makabuluhang ayuda para sa mamamayan. Lalo pa nitong pinapatindi ang kahirapan ng mamamayan sa pagsagka nito sa kanilang paghahanap-buhay. Sa katotohanan, hangga’t nananatili ang kalunos-lunos at aping kundisyon ng masa sa probinsya ay hindi mauubos ang sumasampa at sumusuporta sa tunay na Hukbo ng masa, ang NPA. Sa harap ng nagpapatuloy na pandarambong sa rekurso at lupaing-ninuno ng mga mamamayan ng Kalinga, tumitindig ang masa at kanilang Hukbo upang lumaban at ipagtanggol ang kanilang karapatan. Ang NPA ay binubuo, pangunahin, ng mga masang magsasaka na naghahangad ng tunay na reporma sa lupa at tunay na panlipunang pagbabago. Mahaba na ang karanasan ng tulungan at suportahan ng masang iKalinga at NPA kontra sa pandarambong ng mga dayuhang imperyalista, tuta nitong reaksyunaryong rehimen at kasapakat nitong mga naghaharing-uri at mersenaryong AFP-PNP, at hindi ito basta-basta mabubura at madudurog bagkus ibayo pang tatatag.

Imbes na matakot, inaasahang lalong titindig ang masa upang ipaglaban at igiit ang kanilang mga demokratikong karapatan. Sa sama-samang pagkilos, maipagtatanggol ang lupaing-ninuno, kabuhayan at buhay laban sa paglapastangan ng imperyalista at kasapakat nilang mga lokal na naghaharing-uri. Sa kasalukuyan mayroong 20 negosyong hydropower, isang geothermal, isang windpower, isang malaking minahan at maraming mining application sa buong probinsya.

Kasama ang kanilang Hukbo, ang NPA, matibay na haharapin ng masa ang mga hamon at pakana ng reaksyunaryong gobyernong US-Marcos Jr. na agawin, tayuan ng dam at iba pang proyekto, ang lupaing-ninuno ng mga iKalinga.

Papanagutin ang rehimeng US-Marcos Jr at 5th ID sa krimen nito kontra mamamayan at paglabag sa karapatang-tao at batas ng digma!

Ipagtanggol ang lupaing-ninuno laban sa pandarambong ng mga lokal na naghaharing-uri at kanilang imperyalistang amo!

Sumampa sa NPA at ipaglaban ang demokratikong interes ng mamamayang api’t pinagsasamantalahan!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/papanagutin-ang-rehimeng-us-marcos-jr-at-afp-sa-labis-labis-na-karahasan-kontra-sa-mamamayan/

CPP/NPA-Central Luzon ROC: Kaugnay sa pambobomba ng 84th IB at 703rd Agila Brigade sa Sityo Marikit noong Hunyo 20 ng hatinggabi: Tigreng Papel ang AFP

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 23, 2024): Kaugnay sa pambobomba ng 84th IB at 703rd Agila Brigade sa Sityo Marikit noong Hunyo 20 ng hatinggabi: Tigreng Papel ang AFP (In relation to the bombing of the 84th IB and 703rd Agila Brigade in Sitio Marikit on June 20 at midnight: The AFP is a Paper Tiger)

 


Central Luzon Regional Operational Command (Josepino Corpuz Command)

New People's Army

June 23, 2024

Walang labanan na naganap sa pagitan ng NPA at AFP ng Hunyo 20 ng hatinggabi hanggang madaling araw. Walang trenseradong kampo ng NPA sa lugar na kinakailangang bombahin, gamitan ng fighter plane, attack helicopters at drones.

Umaatungal na tigre ang AFP nang makakuha ng impormasyon na may NPA sa sityo Marikit, Barangay Abuyo, Alfonso Castañeda. Walang abog-abog na nilusob ng 84th IB at 703rd Brigade ng AFP ang lugar. Mula alas dose y medya ng hatingggabi (12:30am) hanggang ala una kwarentay singko ng madaling araw (1:45am) ay 8 beses na nagbagsak ng bomba, nagpakawala ng 2 rocket at nagpaulan ng bala mula sa himpapawid. Paghupa ng apoy mula sa kalangitan, saka sumugod ang mga kasundaluhan na walang patumanggang nagpaputok nang nagpaputok. Mga eksena itong sa pelikula lang mapapanood pero ginawang makatotohanan ng AFP sa paglustay ng pondo ng bayan sa isang gawa-gawang enkawnter.

Wala talagang balak ang AFP na ilikas ang mga sibiliyan bago simulan ang palabas. Halos kasabay lamang ng pagsabog ng bomba ang pagdating ng anim na trak ng AFP at 2 trak ng SAF. Dahil sa kaibuturan, ang mamamayan ang talagang target ng teroristang aktibidad na ito.

Saklaw ng 500 metrong paikot sa ginawang war zone ng AFP ay mga bukirin, taniman ng sili at mga gulay, sugahan ng mga hayop at bahayan ng mga residente ng Marikit. Kusang nagsibakwit ang masa nang bumagsak ang bomba.

Matapos ang palabas na engkwentro ay inokupahan ng AFP ang mga baryo ng Marikit, Abuyo, Balintugon, Galintuja sa Alfonso Castañeda; at Decoliat, Galintuja, at Delacay sa Maria Aurora. Ang teroristang aktibidad na ito ng AFP ay nagpapakita ng matinding pagkatakot ng AFP at ng naghaharing estado sa malawak at malalim na suporta ng masa sa NPA at sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Ito ay PAGBABANTA NG AFP sa MAMAMAYAN na bobombahin nila ang mga komunidad na kumakanlong sa NPA. PAGBABANTA ito ng AFP, maging sa lokal na opisyales ng barangay na tatargetin sila ng galit ng estado pag kumiling sila sa pulang kapangyarihan ng mamamayan kaysa makadayuhan at kontra-masa na militaristang paghahari ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr. Layunin ng AFP na apulain ang nag-aalab na diwa ng sambayanang Pilipino para sa tunay na kalayaan at demokrasya.

Subalit ang mamamayan ng Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Viscaya at saanman sa buong bansa ay hindi mapapatahimik ng pandarahas at panlilinlang ng estado. Nakamulagat ang katotohanan na ibinebenta ng naghaharing estado ang soberanya ng bansa sa imperyalistang US. Tuloy-tuloy ang ekspansyon ng Delta East Alignment Road Project (DEARP) hanggang dulong Norte ng Luzon na sumasagasa sa libu-libong lupaing ninuno ng mga pambansang minorya sa Luzon at mga produktibong lupain ng masang magsasaka. Dagdag kalsada para sa mabilis na pagdambong sa likas na yaman ng bansa hanggang sa kasulok-sulokan. Dagdag airport, dagdag daungan para sa operasyon ng militar at dayuhang tropa ng imperyalistang US sa Silangan Gitnang Luzon. Ikukumbert ang APECO bilang military industrial zone para maging defense hub sa Silangang baybayin ng bansa. Gagamitin diumano ang APECO para sa Self-Reliant Defense Posture Program alinsunod sa Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) ng AFP na nakabalangkas sa pangkalahatang estratehiya ng US sa Asya Pasipiko.

Nagagawa ng AFP na sindakin, gulatin at takutin ang masa sa mga teroristang aktibidad nito gaya ng paggamit ng pambobomba at pagpapaputok mula sa himpapawid sa serye ng isinasagawa nitong focused military operations. Gayunman, ang pagkasindak, gulat at takot ay dagli at may hangganan. Lalo lamang nitong pinag-aalab ang makauring poot ng mamamayan sa malupit, korap, at makadayuhang paghahari ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr.

Tigre mang umaatungal ang AFP, kumakawag naman sa takot ang buntot nito sa harap ng nakikibakang mamamayan.

Nananawagan ang CPP-NPA Gitnang Luzon sa lahat ng mamamayang nagmamahal sa tunay na kapayapaan at demokrasya na buklurin ang mahigpit na pagkakaisa para labanan ang teroristang lagim na hinahasik ng AFP sa mando ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr. Imbestigahan ang overkill na pekeng engkwentro sa Marikit! Panagutin ang mga opisyal ng AFP at ang yunit nito na nagsagawa ng mapamuksang pambobomba sa komunidad ng populasyong sibilyan. Labanan at ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Marcos Jr!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/kaugnay-sa-pambobomba-ng-84th-ib-at-703rd-agila-brigade-sa-sityo-marikit-noong-hunyo-20-ng-hatinggabi-tigreng-papel-ang-afp/

CPP/NPA West Central Luzon/Central Luzon ROC: Pinekeng labanan, overkill! Teroristang aksyon ng AFP Sa Gitnang luzon, panunumbalik ng Batas Militar!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 23, 2024): Pinekeng labanan, overkill! Teroristang aksyon ng AFP Sa Gitnang luzon, panunumbalik ng Batas Militar! (Fake battle, overkill! AFP terrorist action In Central Luzon, restoration of Martial Law!)

 


NPA-West Central Luzon

Central Luzon Regional Operational Command (Josepino Corpuz Command)

New People's Army

June 23, 2024

Mariing kinokondena ng NPA-Kanlurang Gitnang Luzon, ang walang habas na pambobomba, pagpapakawala ng raket at istraping sa kabukiran, burol at gilid ng bahayan sa Sityo Marikit, Barangay Abuyo, Alfonso Castañeda, madaling araw ng June 20, bandang alas 12: 30 hanggang 1:45 ng umaga. Umabot nang mahigit isang oras na nagpaikot-ikot ang 2 attack helicopter sa Sityo Marikit at karatig baryo nito, kasabay ng walang pakundangang paglalaglag ng bomba at pag iistraping. Malalakas na pagsabog ng bomba at machine gun mula sa attack helicopter ang gumulantang at gumising sa mamamayan ng Alfonso Castañeda. Di bababa sa 8 bomba ang pinakawalan, at di mabilang na walang pakundangang pagpapaputok ng machine gun mula sa attack helicopter ang iniulat ng mga masa.

Nagmistulang firing range ang Sityo Marikit sa dami ng pinakawalang bomba at putok ng machine gun. Nagmistulang firing range na katulad ng sa Fort Magsaysay at Sta. Juliana sa Tarlac, sa dami ng ihinulog na bomba at walang patid na pagpapaputok ng machine gun. Tila intensity 7 na lindol ang yumanig sa lakas ng mga pagsabog ang naramdaman ng mamamayan ng Alfonso Castañeda lalo na sa Sityo Marikit at karatig na mga barangay nito. Mainam pa ang firing range, may malinaw na inaasintang target, di gaya ng ginawa sa Sityo Marikit. Walang kalaban, walang naganap na labanan, sa halip naglubid ng istorya na diumano ay may labanan at trenserado ang kalaban kaya naubligang mambomba. Ito ay sa kabila ng nakabalatay ang bahayan at komunidad ng masa kung saan nagpaulan ng bala ng bomba at machine gun. Hindi ito katanggap-tanggap at hindi makatwiran. Walang pagsasa-alang-alang sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mamamayan ang ginawa ng AFP. Peke na ngang labanan, over kill pa.

Sa ulat ng mga kasama sa Silangang Gitnang Luzon, walang naganap na laban sa pagitan ng NPA at AFP noong madaling araw ng June 20. Mariing pinasusubalian ng NPA ang pahayag ng 84th IB na may naganap na labanan, ito ay pawang kasinungalingan. Ang ganitong aksyon ay isang malinaw na teroristang aksyon at asal ng AFP. Sa katunayan, ayon sa mamamayan ng Alfonso Castañeda, tanging ang mga pagsabog at putok ng machine gun na nagmula sa mga attack helicopter ang narinig at nakita nila. Ayon pa sa kanilang pahayag; nagmistulang “Marawi ” ang Sityo Marikit. Akala nila sila ay mapupulbos kagaya ng Marawi sa dami ng bomba at lakas ng mga pagsabog. Nanggagalaiti sa galit ang mamamayan sa AFP sa ganitong aksyon lalo pa’t wala namang naganap na labanan. Target ng ganitong aksyon at asal ng AFP na sindakin, takutin at patahimikin ang masa. Walang pagsasa-alang-alang sa kapakanan ng mamamayan, lalo na sa mga bata, matatanda at maysakit. Maliban sa mga pinsala na dulot ng bomba at bala, mas matimbang at mas mabigat ang pinsala na dulot ng trauma sa isip ng mamamayan.

Mariing pinasusubalian ng NPA-Kanluran GL ang pahayag ng 84th IB sa gawa-gawang labanan, na ang nakalaban nila diumano ay ang yunit ng NPA Tarlac-Zambales. Ang NPA-Kanluran Gitnang luzon ay masayang kapiling ng masa habang kalahok sa pagpapaunlad ng produksyon at kabuhayan ng masa, naglulunsad ng serbisyong medikal, literasiya at numerasiya at katuwang sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan at kapayapaan sa Zambales Mountain Range. Ang ganitong kasinungalingan ng AFP, ay reaksyon at tugon nito sa pagpupursige at pagpupunyagi ng NPA-Kanluran GL na iabante ang kanyang mga tungkulin sa mamamayan. Sa katunayan, nasaklaw at naabot ng NPA-Kanluran GL ang kalaparan at kakapalan ng masa sa probinsya ng Tarlac, Zambales at Western Pangasinan, taliwas sa pahayag ng AFP na wala ng suporta ang masa sa NPA. Sa nakalipas na ilang taon, binigo at pinawalang bisa ng NPA-Kanluran GL at ng mamamayan ng Zambales Mountain Range ang tuloy tuloy na malalaki at mga naka-focus na operasyong militar. Bigo ang mga ito at patuloy na bibiguin ng NPA, dahil malalim na nakaugat ito sa masa, minamahal at kinakalinga. Sa katunayan, nakakadaup ng NPA ang mga masa sa baryo na may mga kampo ng kaaway sa Kanluran Gitnang Luzon. Ang pambobomba at pag iistraping ng AFP, ay mga gawi at asal ng terorista, katulad ng ginawang pekeng labanan sa Mangatarem noong 2020, kung saan binomba ang mga kaingin ng masa, pambobomba sa San Marcelino noong 2019 malapit sa komunidad ng Ayta sa Sityo Lumibao, pambobomba sa Bazal sa Maria Aurora at istraping sa Salay, Dipaculao noong Mayo 2024.

Nananawagan ang NPA-Kanluran Gitnang Luzon sa lahat ng mamamayan, sa mga nakikiisa para sa pagkakaroon ng kapayaan, na maglunsad ng masusing imbestigasyon sa naganap na teroristang aksyon ng AFP sa walang habas at walang pakundangang pambobomba at istraping sa Sityo Marikit, Barangay Abuyo, Afonso Castañeda. Sama samang kumilos para sa paglulunsad ng masusing imbestigasyon at papanagutin ang AFP sa pangunguna ng 7th ID, 703rd Brigade at ng 84th IB. Ang ganitong aksyon ay naglalagay sa panganib sa buhay at kabuhayan ng mamamayan. Kondenahin ang ganitong terororistang aksyon.

Malinaw na malinaw kung sino ang tunay na terorista.

Sama-samang kumilos at manawagan na itigil ang ganitong aksyon at itigil ang de facto martial law sa buong Gitnang Luzon. Kondenahin ang ganitong asal at gawi ng kasundaluhan ng 7th ID. Huwag gawing firing range at target range ng pambobomba at istraping ang mga pamayanan! Itigil ang mga gawa-gawang labanan at paghahasik ng takot sa mamamayan!

Muli, mariing kinokondena ng NPA-Kanluran GL ang walang habas na pambobomba at istraping sa Alfonso Castañeda noong June 20 ng ala una ng madaling araw. Kasinungalingan ng AFP ang gawa gawang labanan.

Mamamayan, kumilos at magka-isa, papanagutin ang AFP. Suportahan ang NPA. Sumapi sa tunay na lingkod ng masa, sumapi sa NPA.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pinekeng-labanan-overkill-teroristang-aksyon-ng-afp-sa-gitnang-luzon-panunumbalik-ng-batas-militar/

Editorial: A call from Palawan for a robust foreign policy on the West Philippines Sea dispute

From Palawan News (Jun 23, 2024): Editorial: A call from Palawan for a robust foreign policy on the West Philippines Sea dispute (By Palawan News)

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PN file photo)

China’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the West Philippine Sea has brought the country’s foreign policy to an important, albeit critical, juncture. This maritime region, which hosts vital shipping lanes and untapped energy and fisheries resources, has become a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions, with the Philippines finding itself unwittingly at the center of a veritable storm.
 
China has escalated its actions towards the Philippines to dangerous levels. Its bold move to cut off supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal has set a dangerous precedent and, if unchecked, will undermine peaceful dispute resolution.

The recent Ayungin Shoal incident has also engendered fears both locally and globally that the tension could degenerate into a situation that the Philippines may not be able to handle by itself. A scenario that forces the country to invoke its mutual defense treaty with the United States as its only response to China’s belligerence promises devastating consequences. No one, hopefully not even China, wants war.

China’s actions have challenged the sovereignty not only of the Philippines but also of its neighboring countries and have threatened the stability in the region and beyond. The entire South China Sea is contested by many other countries, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. Despite the arbitral award handed to the Philippines by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016, China has dismissed the ruling and continued its activities unabated.

Peace and development over war and destruction is a no-brainer. The former is beneficial to all; the latter benefits only a few arms manufacturers. As such, all efforts must be brought into play to maintain and promote peace and development. Diplomacy and the assertion of a revitalized foreign policy stance to protect our exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea is a logical recourse.

There are lessons to be learned from Manila’s own experiences dealing with Beijing, prompting a need to take a long, hard look at its current foreign policy and craft a direction that is more sensitive to present challenges and realities. Vietnam, for instance, has formed a robust foreign policy stance anchored on an independent foreign policy. It seems to be based on a core principle of non-alignment, meaning friend to all and enemy to none, economic engagement with China and Russia, and close ties with the United States and other Western nations all at the same time. It has managed well thus far and could claim to be the gold standard on international relations in this part of the world.

Manila is not without choices if it wants to avert a debilitating crisis with Beijing. But it needs a sensible and resolute policy track that aims to preserve peace while at the same time not surrendering its sovereignty. It needs to go back to the drawing board to map out this new policy direction, one that is more responsive to present challenges, culling not only the lessons offered by Vietnam but also trusting its inherent democratic principle of public transparency to achieve this goal.

We Palaweños appeal to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to consider this policy direction. We hope that Manila can listen and firm up a policy centered on the development of the Philippines and Filipinos. After all, Palawan is a heavily invested stakeholder in this matter. Mr. President, let us pursue conversations, not confrontations.

The international community also cannot afford to remain passive. Freedom of navigation operations by different countries are crucial, yet they are not enough. A united, multilateral approach is essential to deter further actions that may result in the breakdown of peace. ASEAN countries, along with major powers like the United States, Japan, and Australia, must coordinate their diplomatic efforts to ensure the region remains open and accessible to all.

https://palawan-news.com/editorial-a-call-from-palawan-for-a-robust-foreign-policy-on-the-west-philippines-sea-dispute/

NTF WPS says PH not seeking aggression in Monday’s Ayungin Shoal incident

From Palawan News (Jun 22, 2024): NTF WPS says PH not seeking aggression in Monday’s Ayungin Shoal incident (By Gerald Ticke)

The sole purpose of the resupply mission on June 17 was to deliver essential goods to troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal and to rotate personnel, not to seek armed aggression, National Task Force on West Philippine Sea (NTF WPS) spokesperson Commo. Jay Tarriela said.

The China Coast Guard (CCG) and maritime militia, on the other hand, wanted to stop the resupply mission, he said.

“Walang intensiyon ang kahit na sino mang bansa na magkaroon ng malawakang armed aggression sa insidente na ‘to,” Tarriela said in a news forum in Quezon City on Saturday, referring to Monday’s incident where CCG personnel blocked and hounded Philippine Navy troops conducting the mission while wielding bolos and axes, resulting in damages to the navy’s rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) and injuring troops.

Tarriela said the explanation was not in his capacity as Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson, but he was tasked by the chairman of the National Task Force WPS to give clarification on the last briefing conducted by the National Maritime Council on Friday.

During the briefing, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who chairs the NMC, said the latest incident cannot be classified as an armed attack but “probably [just] a misunderstanding or an accident.”

Bersamin likewise said the council agreed upon policy recommendations, which were submitted to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his consideration, that the next rotation and reprovision (RoRe) missions be publicized and conducted on a regular schedule.

Tarriela explained that RoRe missions to the BRP Sierra Madre will continue regularly, asserting that these operations are legitimate actions of the Philippine government within its exclusive economic zone.

He likewise labeled the June 17 incident as the “most condemning” action yet of CCG.

https://palawan-news.com/ntf-wps-says-ph-not-seeking-aggression-in-mondays-ayungin-shoal-incident/

Marcos to troops: Stay firm in defending the country

From Palawan News (Jun 23, 2024): Marcos to troops: Stay firm in defending the country (By Gerald Ticke)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stands with SN1 Jeffrey Facundo, dressed in a blue hospital gown, a Naval Special Operations Group member who was seriously injured during the June 17 resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal. He is joined by the 79 other soldiers who also participated in the mission. Marcos is joined in his visit to the Western Command by Defense Sec. Gibo Teodoro Jr., AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Wescom Commander Rear Adm. Alfonso Torres Jr., Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. (Malacañang photo)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited military troops at the Western Command on Sunday, June 23, where he told them to stand firm in performing their mission and duty of defending the nation, particularly the western frontier amidst adversity, with integrity and respect.

Marcos also lauded the soldiers, especially the personnel who have been conducting rotation and reprovision (RoRe) to troops aboard the Philippine Navy vessel BRP Sierra Madre, which was grounded at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, as they continuously face challenges, harassment, and intimidation from the China Coast Guard and maritime militia.

“But despite these challenges, you have stood up and upheld the fundamental principles that bind all of us Filipinos. A mutual respect for life, for dignity, and for community,” Marcos said in his speech.

He said despite the dangerous maneuvers of the CCG against resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal, Filipino soldiers have remained calm and composed, reacting to the challenges professionally.

“We are not in the business to instigate wars—our great ambition is to provide a peaceful and prosperous life for every Filipino. This is the drum beat – this is the principle that we live by, that we march by,” he stated.

“We refuse to play by the rules that force us to choose sides in a great power competition. No government that truly exists in the service of the people would invite danger or harm to lives and livelihood,” he added, noting that the nature of the Filipino people is to defend the nation and settle issues peacefully.

As such, soldiers are bound to act according to their mandate and perform their duties without resorting to the use of force, intimidation, or deliberately inflicting injury or harm on anyone, he said.

The president likewise said that while the country remains committed to resolving issues in the WPS through peaceful means, the government is firm and “should not be mistaken for acquiescence.”

He also stated that, as history has shown, the Philippines has never yielded to any foreign power, which “we owe to our forefathers the duty to keep the freedoms that they fought, bled, and died for; and that we presently enjoy.”

“Kailanman ay hindi tayo magpapa-supil at magpapa-api kahit na kanino man,” he stressed.

“The Philippines is a responsible state. We will continue to exercise our freedoms and rights in support of our national interest, in accordance with international law,” he added.

Furthermore, he lauded the troops who “sailed the waters and exercised the greatest restraint amidst intense provocation.”

“You demonstrated to the world that the Filipino spirit is one that is brave, determined, and yet is compassionate,” he noted.

He also assured them of the entire nation’s support and gratitude for their dedication to service.

Making special mention of SN1 Jeffrey Facundo, he said the government will continue to provide them with all necessary support, including that of their families.

After his speech, he conferred awards of the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the rank of Kamagi to the 80 soldiers who participated in the RoRe missions, while Facundo, whose right thumb was severed in the June 17 incident, was awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the rank of Kampilan.

https://palawan-news.com/marcos-to-troops-stay-firm-in-defending-the-country/

US East Asia envoy says South China Sea situation deeply concerning

From Rappler (Jun 22, 2024): US East Asia envoy says South China Sea situation deeply concerning (REUTERS)

'We're going to continue to stand with our Filipino allies,' US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink says

HANOI, Vietnam – United States (US) Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink on Saturday, June 22, said the situation in the South China Sea is deeply concerning, and said China’s recent actions in the disputed waterway were “deeply destabilizing.”

Kritenbrink made the comments during a visit to Hanoi, amid rising tension between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea, where Vietnam is also a claimant.

“We think that China’s actions, particularly its recent actions, around the Second Thomas Shoal, vis-à-vis the Philippines have been irresponsible, aggressive, dangerous, deeply destabilising,” Kritenbrink said at a briefing for selected media in Hanoi, a recording of which was reviewed by Reuters.

“We’re going to continue to stand with our Filipino allies,” Kritenbrink said, adding that Washington had made it clear, both publicly and privately, to Beijing that the mutual defense treaty obligations it has with the Philippines were “ironclad.”

On Friday, Philippine officials said they did not consider invoking the mutual defense treaty with the US after accusing China of aggressively disrupting a resupply mission in the disputed South China Sea earlier this month.

China’s foreign ministry disputed the Philippines’ account, with a spokesperson saying on Thursday that the necessary measures taken were lawful, professional and beyond reproach.

“We think every country in the region, including China, needs to respect international law and needs to behave responsibly in the maritime domain,” Kritenbrink said.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual shipborne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague said China’s claims had no legal basis, a decision Beijing has rejected.

Kritenbrink arrived in Hanoi on Friday on the heels of a visit to Vietnam by Russian President Vladimir Putin that was sharply criticized by Washington.

“Only Vietnam can decide how best to safeguard its sovereignty and advance its interests,” Kritenbrink said when asked about his view on Vietnam’s foreign policy and its hosting of Putin.

Vietnam and the US officially upgraded their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Vietnam’s highest tier of its diplomatic ranking, during a visit to Hanoi by President Joe Biden in September last year.

Kritenbrink said upgrade was “historic and momentous,” and said he wanted to maintain momentum to make sure that all of the agreements reached are implemented.

“We continue to believe that the US-Vietnam partnership has never been stronger,” he said. – Rappler.com

https://www.rappler.com/world/asia-pacific/us-official-statement-south-china-sea-situation-deeply-concerning/

Army seizes firearms, explosives in San Joaquin

From Panay News (Jun 24, 2024): Army seizes firearms, explosives in San Joaquin (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

ILOILO – On Saturday morning, soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) seized a cache of weapons and explosives in Barangay Sta. Ana, San Joaquin town.

The haul included an M16 armalite rifle with five magazines, an improvised explosive device (IED), and 56 rounds of ammunition.

The operation was informed by intelligence provided by a former rebel known as alias Michelle, who had previously surrendered to the Army.

Michelle, once part of the Puregold Sangay Yunit Propaganda (SYP) Platoon of the now-dismantled Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyong-Panay, had defected during a clash on February 29 in Barangay Torocadan, San Joaquin, where three rebels were killed.

Lieutenant Colonel Arturo Balgos of the 61IB said, “Through the information provided by alias Michelle, we were able to locate and recover the abandoned weapons and ammunition. This achievement not only represents a significant blow to insurgent activities but also demonstrates the strong resolve of the community to maintain peace and order.”

The earlier encounter in February also resulted in the Army’s recovery of five high-powered firearms, including four M16 rifles and one AK-47, as well as additional military equipment and personal belongings of the insurgents.

https://www.panaynews.net/army-seizes-firearms-explosives-in-san-joaquin/

Proof of life

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 20, 2024): Proof of life (By RHODA GRACE SARON) 

 


Former president debunks health rumors on Facebook Live

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte addressed the nation through a live Facebook video on June 20, 2024, to dispel rumors about his health circulating on social media.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who joined Duterte in the live stream, urged social media users to refrain from spreading false information about the former president’s health.

“It’s not true, he’s alive and well,” Go said while showing Duterte on camera.

Duterte, in his address, assured the public that he is in good health and has no plans of dying anytime soon.

“My fellow Filipinos, how are you all? I’m old, and you can’t avoid rumors that I’m sick. But I’m not sick, and I don’t feel like I’m going to die anytime soon,” he said.

“I’m here at home, with Bong. I’m retired now. Show them, Bong, my small house. It’s just housing. I’m just here relaxing and greeting all of you, a good day to all Filipinos.”

Go then emphasized that the rumors about Duterte’s death are false. “Those who are spreading these rumors, don’t spread bad news. He’s alive and kicking. Of course, former President Duterte is getting old, but he’s relatively healthy for his age.”

“You know, I’m old. I served you for the longest time as mayor for several years, as president. Don’t be surprised if I die. It’s better to ask why I’m still alive. Why don’t I just retire? I’m old, and that’s what…but you hear the news, they’re gossiping that I’m going to die. We will all die, you, me, everyone in this world,” Duterte said.



“I’m no exception. I’m old, and I’ve served my whole life, for the country, for the Filipino people. Thank you for your help and encouragement in the past, that’s why I was able to do it, I fought everything, especially crime,” he added.

“I’m done. I’m retired now,” he further said.

Go repeatedly assured the public that Duterte was in very good health. “For me, in my commitment to him, especially his medical care, I will never abandon our President Duterte until he can no longer receive medical care, and I will not abandon our President Duterte until death. That is my commitment to him, and I love him very much,” he further said.

“Ask me what my advice is for you, and for your children, and your grandchildren, it’s just one thing: ‘Just do what’s right. You don’t have to talk about it. You know what’s right. Do what’s right,'” Duterte said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/proof-of-life/

EastMinCom welcomes new naval asset

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 23, 2024): EastMinCom welcomes new naval asset (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), in collaboration with the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), held an arrival ceremony on June 21 to welcome the BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906) at Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Davao City.

Major General Luis Rex D. Bergante, EastMinCom Commander, served as the guest of honor and speaker at the ceremony. He highlighted the significance of operations within the EastMinCom Joint Operational Area (JOA) for the nation’s overall security posture.

“As we make significant strides in improving our internal security operations and begin the healing and reconciliation process, we must reassess and refocus our efforts to address the prevailing threat to our national territory,” Bergante said.

The arrival of PG906, along with its officers and sailors, will substantially contribute to our overarching mission of protecting our sovereignty and safeguarding our territory,” he added.

The BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906) is a new Philippine Navy asset deployed within the EastMinCom JOA, enhancing the region’s maritime security capabilities. The Philippine Navy commissioned the gunboat in May this year after it was delivered from Israel Shipyards Ltd. on Nov. 18 last year.

Also called an Acero-class patrol gunboat, the BRP Herminigildo Yurong is classified as missile-capable. The Philippine Navy has six Acero-class vessels, including BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901), BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902), BRP Gener Tinangag (PG-903), BRP Domingo Deluana (PG-905), and BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907).

The gunboat was named after the slain Marine Herminigildo J. Yurong who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Valor while he led his men in fighting 200 MILF guerrillas in Maguindanao in 2000.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/eastmincom-welcomes-new-naval-asset/

Kalinaw SEMR marks Davao de Oro’s 2nd year of insurgency-free status

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 23, 2024): Kalinaw SEMR marks Davao de Oro’s 2nd year of insurgency-free status (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 


KALINAW Southeastern Mindanao (Kalinaw SEMR), a network of former CPP-NPA-NDFP members dedicated to peace and reconciliation, commends the people and government of Davao de Oro on the second anniversary of achieving an insurgency-free status.

This milestone underscores the dedication of individuals, organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to fostering peace, social justice, and the rule of law.

Kalinaw SEMR, recognized for its pivotal role in this achievement during a June 21 ceremony, acknowledges that sustaining peace requires ongoing efforts. The province’s journey from a former CPP-NPA-NDFP stronghold, with seven guerrilla fronts operating across over 130 barangays, to an insurgency-free zone is a testament to the power of unity and reconciliation.

The positive impact of peace is evident in Davao de Oro’s economic statistics. The number of impoverished families decreased by 16.59% between 2018 and the first half of 2021, highlighting the effectiveness of counterinsurgency efforts and the establishment of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

However, Kalinaw SEMR emphasizes that fundamental socio-economic challenges persist, including inequality, low wages, and inadequate household incomes. These issues, which historically contributed to radicalization, require urgent attention to ensure lasting peace. Environmental concerns like illegal logging and irresponsible mining also need to be addressed.

Kalinaw SEMR calls upon its members, affiliate organizations, the provincial government, the 10th Infantry Division, the Eastern Mindanao Command of the AFP, and all stakeholders to remain vigilant in addressing these challenges and empowering former CPP-NPA-NDFP members and affected communities.

Celebrating Davao de Oro’s insurgency-free status should serve as a reminder of the ongoing work required to pursue justice, cultivate lasting peace, and create a secure and prosperous future for the province.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/kalinaw-semr-marks-davao-de-oros-2nd-year-of-insurgency-free-status/

DBM OKs release of P14-B for military retirees’ pension

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2024): DBM OKs release of P14-B for military retirees’ pension (By Darryl John Esguerra)

MANILA – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of PHP14.046 billion to cover the regular pension requirements of military retirees for the period of July to September 2024.

Budget Secretary Pangandaman approved the request of the Department of National Defense – Armed Forces of the Philippines for the release of funds on June 14, the DBM said in a news release Sunday.

Pangandaman said the approval demonstrates the government’s dedication to honor the service and sacrifice of Filipino soldiers.

The funding is set to benefit 139,172 pensioners, including the requirements for the resumption, transfer and restoration of pension of military retirees and their legal beneficiaries.

The funds will be charged against the Pension and Gratuity Fund under the Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Act.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1227494

PBBM on WPS tension: Calm, peaceful disposition not sign of submission

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2024): PBBM on WPS tension: Calm, peaceful disposition not sign of submission (By Darryl John Esguerra)

NEVER BEEN PROUDER. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visits Camp General Artemio Ricarte - Western Command Headquarters in the City of Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Sunday (June 23, 2024). In his message, the President said he has never been prouder of the military for showing the Filipino spirit of bravery and compassion in connection with the latest Chinese aggression in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. (PNA photo by Darryl John Esguerra)

CITY OF PUERTO PRINCESA – The “calm and peaceful disposition” of the Philippines should not be mistaken as a sign of submission as it remains firm in its commitment to defend its territory, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Sunday.

Marcos made the pronouncement during his visit to Camp General Artemio Ricarte, the headquarters of the military’s Western Command (Wescom) in this city.

Known as the “Defenders and Patriots of the Last Frontier,” the Wescom has jurisdiction over the country’s maritime territory, particularly the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The President’s visit came after the June 17 incident in Ayungin Shoal where the China Coast Guard (CCG) rammed a Philippine government ship, brandished bladed weapons, and seized disassembled rifles during the country’s rotation and resupply (RORE) mission.

In his message to the troops, Marcos called on the Wescom to continue to fulfill its duty of defending the nation with integrity and respect as it has done so far.

The President reiterated that the Philippines is “not in the business to instigate wars,” noting that its “great ambition is to provide a peaceful and prosperous life for every Filipino.”

“We refuse to play by the rules that force us to choose sides in a great power competition. No government that truly exists in the service of the people will invite danger or harm to lives and livelihood,” Marcos said.

“And that is why, in defending the nation, we stay true to our Filipino nature that we would like to settle all these issues peacefully. And in the performance of our duties, we will not resort to the use of force or intimidation, or deliberately inflict injury or harm to anyone,” he added.

“But at the same time, we stand firm. Our calm and peaceful disposition should not be mistaken for acquiescence,” the President went on.

Citing the Philippines’ history of never yielding to any foreign power, he said Filipinos owe it to their forefathers to “keep the freedoms that they fought, bled and died for, and that we presently enjoy.”

“Kailanman ay hindi tayo magpapa-supil at magpapa-api kahit na kanino man (We will never be subjugated and oppressed by anyone),” he said.

“The Philippines is a responsible state. We will continue to exercise our freedoms and rights in support of our national interest, in accordance with international law,” he added.

'Never been prouder of AFP’

The Commander-in-Chief also commended Filipino soldiers for showing “greatest restraint amid intense provocation,” saying he has “never been prouder of the brave women, men, and not just the Western Command but the entire Armed Forces.”

“You demonstrated to the world that the Filipino spirit is one that is brave, determined, and yet compassionate,” he said.

The President also led the awarding of the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi to the 79 Filipino soldiers involved in the incident while the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kampilan was given to the injured Navy seaman.

The Order of Lapu-Lapu is conferred on officials and personnel of the government and private individuals in recognition of invaluable or extraordinary service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the President.

Marcos assured them that the government would continue to provide all the military’s needs and look after their welfare, as well as their families.

“Kayo ang halimbawa ng isang Bagong Pilipinas. Kayo ay isa sa aming inspirasyon para lalo pang pagbutihin ang aming sinumpaang tungkulin (You are examples of a New Philippines. You are our inspiration to continue doing our best in carrying out our duty),” he said.

“Let us continue to chart the destiny of our nation as that is what we are doing now. We are charting the destiny of the Philippines, one that is strengthened by diversity but united in our quest for peace,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1227493

PH on solid legal footing in WPS row, Marcos says

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2024): PH on solid legal footing in WPS row, Marcos says (By Darryl John Esguerra)

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visits the Western Command headquarters in the City of Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Sunday (June 23, 2024) following the recent Chinese harassment of Filipino soldiers conducting a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal. In his message, the President congratulated Wescom for staying true to its mission of protecting the country and upholding its rights within its territory. (Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office)

CITY OF PUERTO PRINCESA – The Philippines has “very strong” legal grounds for its claims in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stressed Sunday when he visited troops who were harassed by the China Coast Guard in the recent resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal.

Speaking with some 80 soldiers at the Western Command (WesCom) in this Palawan province capital, Marcos reiterated his vows when he assumed the presidency that he would do everything to defend the country's territory.

“Since I became President, I have made it very, very clear that we will do everything that we need to do to defend our territory, to defend our sovereignty, and to allow our citizens to exercise their sovereign rights within the EEZ (exclusive economic zone),” he said.

"Iyan ang pinaka-importanteng -- tuloy-tuloy na natin gawin. Matibay ang pinagtatayuan natin dahil ang batas (That’s what is important. We will continue doing that. We have a strong ground because), the international law, is with us. We are on very solid international legal grounds on this," he added.

Marcos said the international community recognizes the Philippines’ territory and EEZ “where we as Filipino citizens can exercise our sovereign rights.”

The Philippines and China have been locked in a long-standing maritime dispute in the WPS, part of the vast South China Sea that Beijing claims entirely as its own.

However, a 2016 arbitral ruling invalidated China’s claim and upheld the Philippines’ rights on key features of the waterways, a decision Beijing has refused to recognize.

The President also acknowledged the commitment of the soldiers who exercised maximum restraint despite continued Chinese provocations.

He congratulated them for accomplishing the mission -- defend the country’s maritime domain and allow the citizens to exercise their sovereign rights within the EEZ of the Philippines without instigating a war.

“Maliwanag na maliwanag kahit gaano kahirap, kahit gaano kabigat ang trabaho na ibinibigay sa inyo ay mission accomplished pa rin kayo (It's clear that no matter how hard it is, no matter how heavy the work that is given to you, you still accomplish the mission) every time that you go out,” he said.

Private sector support

The restraint shown by the Filipino soldiers in what many described as the most violent Chinese harassment to date drew commendation from various quarters, including the private sector.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed gratitude for the unwavering support expressed by Philippine business groups, like the Makati Business Club and the Management Association of the Philippines.

“Your recognition of our dedication and sacrifice fuels us to continue serving our nation with pride and honor,” the military said. “The AFP’s role extends beyond defense, as we safeguard an environment where every Filipino can thrive, regardless of background, and contribute to a nation built on the rule of law and justice.”

The two business groups deplored the continued harassment of the AFP and the Philippine Coast Guard and called for a whole-of-nation approach in addressing threats to national sovereignty and security. (With reports from Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1227498

88 loose firearms, 9 explosives seized by Caraga police

 From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2024): 88 loose firearms, 9 explosives seized by Caraga police (By Alexander Lopez)

BUTUAN CITY – The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) reported the confiscation of 88 loose firearms and nine explosives during 90 police operations in three weeks.

PRO-13 data from June 1 to 20 showed that 81 of the loose firearms were confiscated through the implementation of Oplan Bakal (Steel), six were seized through Oplan Katok (Knock) and one was from a New People’s Army rebel who surrendered during the period.

Four of the explosives were confiscated in Agusan del Norte, three in Surigao del Sur, and one each in Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands, the PRO-13 data indicated.

The biggest number of loose firearms seized were from Surigao del Norte with 27, Surigao del Sur with 17, Agusan del Norte with 16, Agusan del Sur with nine, Butuan City with nine, and Dinagat Islands with seven.

The remaining firearms were confiscated during operations by the regional mobile units of the PRO-13.

PRO-13 said it will continue to intensify its campaigns against loose firearms to ensure the safety and security of residents in the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1227467

Village exec in firearms deal die ni Lanao Sur op

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2024): Village exec in firearms deal die ni Lanao Sur op (By Edwin Fernandez)

NEUTRALIZED. Several of the firearms seized during a police anti-illegal firearms operation in Malabang town, Lanao del Sur, on Saturday (June 22, 2024). Slain during the operation was Billy Jack Ogca (inset), chairperson of Barangay Poblacion in Balabagan town, who was part of the group dealing the firearms. (Photo courtesy of CIDG BARMM)

CAMP S.K. PENDATUN, Maguindanao Sur – Police authorities have launched a manhunt against companions of a Lanao del Sur village chairperson slain during an anti-illegal firearms buy-bust operation Saturday afternoon.

The village official, identified as Billy Jack Ogca, chairperson of Barangay Poblacion in Balabagan town, Lanao del Sir province, was fatally injured after he traded shots with the law enforcement officers during the 1 p.m. operation.

Lt. Col. Ariel Huesca, chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said four other companions of the village chief managed to escape.

Huesca said one of the village chair’s companions earlier agreed to deal with a police undercover agent on the sale of assorted firearms.

“At the time of the transaction, however, Ogca’s companion noticed the presence of cops nearby and opened fire, triggering a shootout that wounded the village official,” he said.

Police rushed the critically injured Ogca to the Dr. Serapio Montañer Hospital in the municipality, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.

CIDG operatives recovered an M14 rifle, two M16 rifles, an M4 rifle, two .45-caliber pistols, assorted magazines, and ammunition.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1227492