From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): NPA rebel surrenders in Davao Occidental
A member of the New People's Army (NPA) who operates in Davao Occidental, surrendered with a firearm to the troops of 73rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental.
Capt. Mc Gary Dida, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of the Army's 1002nd Infantry Brigade, said Wednesday that Juanito Miguel Oday alias Payat, 35, married and a resident of Sitio Lanulan, Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental surrendered and gave up his M1 carbine rifle.
“Nihawa ko sa kilusan kay nahadlok ko na basi mapatay ko sa engkwentro, gikapoy na kaayo ko ug tinago sa bukid (I left the organization for fear of being killed during an encounter. I am also tired of hiding from government troops)," Oday said.
Last week, a series of encounters broke out in Malapatan, Sarangani Province that resulted in the apprehension of three NPA rebels and the recovery of three firearms.
Following the encounter, the military said it intensified its pursuit operations to maintain peace in the area.
“With our intensive security operations and continuous collaboration with our local government units and other stakeholders, we can align our efforts in attaining peaceful and conflict-resilient communities within our area of operation,” said Lt. Col. Marion Angcao, commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion commander.
The former rebel will be presented to the LGU of Davao Occidental for immediate assistance and enrolment to the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP), Lt. Angcao said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033981
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
New AFP chief tells soldiers to work hard for results
From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): New AFP chief tells soldiers to work hard for results
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez has called on all members of the military to do their best when assigned a particular task or mission.
"I am results-oriented. We must be output-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers," Galvez told the soldiers during his first flag-raising ceremony as AFP head at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City last week.
To achieve this goal, the AFP chief said they need the cooperation of every officer, enlisted personnel and civilian employee to attain their objectives and target outputs.
“These will be our focus as I lead the AFP. I promise you that I will deliver results and I will do my best with much honor, integrity, and loyalty to our service,” he added.
Galvez, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985, replaced AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, a member of PMA Class of 1984, who was honored with a testimonial parade and review and the prestigious award of the Philippine Legion of Honor (Rank of Commander), during his retirement last April 18.
With the retirement of Guerrero, Galvez is now the 50th AFP chief-of-staff.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033858
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez has called on all members of the military to do their best when assigned a particular task or mission.
"I am results-oriented. We must be output-oriented as we value teamwork and meritocracy. Be righteous. Be perfect, because any mistake may mean the lives of the people we have sworn to serve and protect; and the lives of our very own soldiers," Galvez told the soldiers during his first flag-raising ceremony as AFP head at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City last week.
To achieve this goal, the AFP chief said they need the cooperation of every officer, enlisted personnel and civilian employee to attain their objectives and target outputs.
“These will be our focus as I lead the AFP. I promise you that I will deliver results and I will do my best with much honor, integrity, and loyalty to our service,” he added.
Galvez, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985, replaced AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, a member of PMA Class of 1984, who was honored with a testimonial parade and review and the prestigious award of the Philippine Legion of Honor (Rank of Commander), during his retirement last April 18.
With the retirement of Guerrero, Galvez is now the 50th AFP chief-of-staff.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033858
Navy gets first missile system for patrol boats
From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): Navy gets first missile system for patrol boats
The Philippine Navy (PN) has received its first-ever missile system from Israeli weapons manufacturer Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong confirmed Wednesday.
Andolong said the Spike-ER surface-to-surface missiles along with its launchers have arrived third week of April.
Andolong said the weapons are now being "integrated" or installed on the Navy's three brand-new MPACs or multi-purpose attack craft with the guidance of Rafael personnel. The three MPACs were activated in May 22, 2017.
After the installation, the Spike-ER missile systems will then undergo Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee, Andolong added.
"The missile-equipped MPACs will greatly enhance the Navy's capability to secure our littoral areas against terrorism and in support of maritime law enforcement operations," the defense spokesperson said.
The missile system was procured under the Armed Forces' Horizon One modernization program.
The Spike-ER missiles are capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor. The missiles will give the PN a much needed firepower in dealing with surface threats whether these are small or large ships.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033900
The Philippine Navy (PN) has received its first-ever missile system from Israeli weapons manufacturer Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong confirmed Wednesday.
Andolong said the Spike-ER surface-to-surface missiles along with its launchers have arrived third week of April.
Andolong said the weapons are now being "integrated" or installed on the Navy's three brand-new MPACs or multi-purpose attack craft with the guidance of Rafael personnel. The three MPACs were activated in May 22, 2017.
After the installation, the Spike-ER missile systems will then undergo Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee, Andolong added.
"The missile-equipped MPACs will greatly enhance the Navy's capability to secure our littoral areas against terrorism and in support of maritime law enforcement operations," the defense spokesperson said.
The missile system was procured under the Armed Forces' Horizon One modernization program.
The Spike-ER missiles are capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor. The missiles will give the PN a much needed firepower in dealing with surface threats whether these are small or large ships.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033900
Steel-cutting for Navy's missile-capable frigates starts
From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): Steel-cutting for Navy's missile-capable frigates starts
Shipbuilder Korean Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has formally started the construction of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s first two missile-capable frigates with the steel-cutting ceremony held in Ulsan, South Korea on April 30, a defense department official said Wednesday.
This was confirmed by Defense Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
"I can confirm that the steel cutting has commenced on April 30," he added.
Steel-cutting is considered the official start of any vessel construction.
Present during the steel-cutting ceremony were HHI president Gang-Hwan Kang, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Defense Undersecretary for Finance and Materiel Raymundo Elefante and Navy chief Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad.
Contract for the PHP18-billion frigate project was signed on Oct. 24, 2016.
The ships will be equipped with missiles and other weapons capable of neutralizing air, surface, and sub-surface threats. The two frigates are capable of speeds of 25 knots or around 46 kilometers per hour and have range of 4,500 nautical miles.
HHI is set to launch the first frigate by May 2019 with delivery by the second half of 2020.
Meanwhile, steel-cutting for the second frigate under HHI contract will commence this September with delivery on the first half of 2021.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033922
Shipbuilder Korean Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has formally started the construction of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s first two missile-capable frigates with the steel-cutting ceremony held in Ulsan, South Korea on April 30, a defense department official said Wednesday.
This was confirmed by Defense Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
"I can confirm that the steel cutting has commenced on April 30," he added.
Steel-cutting is considered the official start of any vessel construction.
Present during the steel-cutting ceremony were HHI president Gang-Hwan Kang, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Defense Undersecretary for Finance and Materiel Raymundo Elefante and Navy chief Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad.
Contract for the PHP18-billion frigate project was signed on Oct. 24, 2016.
The ships will be equipped with missiles and other weapons capable of neutralizing air, surface, and sub-surface threats. The two frigates are capable of speeds of 25 knots or around 46 kilometers per hour and have range of 4,500 nautical miles.
HHI is set to launch the first frigate by May 2019 with delivery by the second half of 2020.
Meanwhile, steel-cutting for the second frigate under HHI contract will commence this September with delivery on the first half of 2021.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033922
Kidnappers demand P5M for 2 policewomen's release
From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): Kidnappers demand P5M for 2 policewomen's release
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde on Wednesday said unidentified abductors are demanding PHP5 million in exchange for the release of two policewomen kidnapped in Patikul, Sulu over the weekend.
“As of this time, wala pa talagang maliwanag although may mga negotiators tayo. We asked help from the local chief executives doon at ang hinihingi initially na ransom is PHP5 million, (Nothing is clear but we sought help from local chief executives and we were told the abductors were initially asking for PHP5 million),”Albayalde said.
He also confirmed that according to local police, the policewomen who were kidnapped along with two others by at least eleven armed men are still alive.
“(T)here is proof of life as of this morning,” Albayalde added.
PO2 Benierose Alvarez and PO1 Dinah Gumahad, are both assigned at the PNP Crime Laboratory office based in Calarian town in Zamboanga City when they were forcibly taken by the armed men. The two were with Muslim companions identified as Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidji.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, said three battalions of troopers are conducting search operations in Patikul.
Earlier, Police Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, said the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has demanded ransom payment in exchange for the release of the two policewomen and their two companions, adding "negotiations ongoing.”
But Beltran did not elaborate on ASG's exact demands as the case is now being handled by the Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group, together with the victims’ families.
Reports said that four were seized by the Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Mujir Yada on Sunday, April 29, in Barangay Liang, Patikul.
Beltran said operations by the Joint Task Force Sulu to rescue the captives are also ongoing, and that the safety of hostages is of paramount concern.
Chief Insp. Helen Galvez, PRO-9 information officer, said in a statement earlier that the two policewomen were on vacation in Sulu.
She said they came from Quezon Beach, one of the famous picnic grounds in Sulu, when the ASG seized them.
Alvarez is assigned with the Engineer Service Division under the Regional Logistics Office of PRO-9. She is from Isabela City, Basilan.
Gumahad is undergoing a 45-day Criminal Investigation Course at Regional Special Training Unit-9. She is assigned in the town of Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033960
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde on Wednesday said unidentified abductors are demanding PHP5 million in exchange for the release of two policewomen kidnapped in Patikul, Sulu over the weekend.
“As of this time, wala pa talagang maliwanag although may mga negotiators tayo. We asked help from the local chief executives doon at ang hinihingi initially na ransom is PHP5 million, (Nothing is clear but we sought help from local chief executives and we were told the abductors were initially asking for PHP5 million),”Albayalde said.
He also confirmed that according to local police, the policewomen who were kidnapped along with two others by at least eleven armed men are still alive.
“(T)here is proof of life as of this morning,” Albayalde added.
PO2 Benierose Alvarez and PO1 Dinah Gumahad, are both assigned at the PNP Crime Laboratory office based in Calarian town in Zamboanga City when they were forcibly taken by the armed men. The two were with Muslim companions identified as Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidji.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, said three battalions of troopers are conducting search operations in Patikul.
Earlier, Police Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, said the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has demanded ransom payment in exchange for the release of the two policewomen and their two companions, adding "negotiations ongoing.”
But Beltran did not elaborate on ASG's exact demands as the case is now being handled by the Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group, together with the victims’ families.
Reports said that four were seized by the Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Mujir Yada on Sunday, April 29, in Barangay Liang, Patikul.
Beltran said operations by the Joint Task Force Sulu to rescue the captives are also ongoing, and that the safety of hostages is of paramount concern.
Chief Insp. Helen Galvez, PRO-9 information officer, said in a statement earlier that the two policewomen were on vacation in Sulu.
She said they came from Quezon Beach, one of the famous picnic grounds in Sulu, when the ASG seized them.
Alvarez is assigned with the Engineer Service Division under the Regional Logistics Office of PRO-9. She is from Isabela City, Basilan.
Gumahad is undergoing a 45-day Criminal Investigation Course at Regional Special Training Unit-9. She is assigned in the town of Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033960
US to donate add’l P182-M for Marawi conflict victims
From the Philippine News Agency (May 3): US to donate add’l P182-M for Marawi conflict victims
AID FOR MARAWI. United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim at the Kapihan sa Embahada on Thursday (May 3, 2018). (Photo by Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)
United States Ambassador Sung Kim on Thursday announced that the US is providing an additional PHP182 million assistance for the people displaced due to the Marawi City conflict in 2017.
This amount brings to nearly PHP1.4 billion the total contribution of US government, through US Agency for International Development (USAID), for the total recovery of the southern city.
"Together with our partners on the ground, we will build transitional shelters, repair water and sanitation facilities, provide social support, establish safe spaces to protect women and children from exploitation and violence, and, hopefully, in the process, also help jumpstart the local economy," Kim told reporters at the US Embassy in Manila.
Last January, the embassy allocated an additional PHP330 million to support young women and men to enhance job skills and attain livelihoods.
The United States, through USAID, has been a key partner of the Philippine government in the recovery, stabilization, and rehabilitation of Marawi City and its surrounding areas.
USAID’s early assistance involved restoring access to water and distributing desks for schools where displaced students are enrolled. It also provided health clinics in Marawi City and surrounding areas with supplies and services to combat tuberculosis and support maternal, newborn, and child health needs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1034048
AID FOR MARAWI. United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim at the Kapihan sa Embahada on Thursday (May 3, 2018). (Photo by Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)
United States Ambassador Sung Kim on Thursday announced that the US is providing an additional PHP182 million assistance for the people displaced due to the Marawi City conflict in 2017.
This amount brings to nearly PHP1.4 billion the total contribution of US government, through US Agency for International Development (USAID), for the total recovery of the southern city.
"Together with our partners on the ground, we will build transitional shelters, repair water and sanitation facilities, provide social support, establish safe spaces to protect women and children from exploitation and violence, and, hopefully, in the process, also help jumpstart the local economy," Kim told reporters at the US Embassy in Manila.
Last January, the embassy allocated an additional PHP330 million to support young women and men to enhance job skills and attain livelihoods.
The United States, through USAID, has been a key partner of the Philippine government in the recovery, stabilization, and rehabilitation of Marawi City and its surrounding areas.
USAID’s early assistance involved restoring access to water and distributing desks for schools where displaced students are enrolled. It also provided health clinics in Marawi City and surrounding areas with supplies and services to combat tuberculosis and support maternal, newborn, and child health needs.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1034048
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
NDF/PKM: Fulfill the tasks of the worker-peasant basic alliance to win the revolution and build a socialist future
Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (PKM) propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (May 1): Fulfill the tasks of the worker-peasant basic alliance to win the revolution and build a socialist future
Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid
National Democratic Front of the Philippines
Labor Day 2018 | PRESS RELEASE
Reference: Andres Agtalon, Spokesperson, PKM-NDFP
As the country’s largest labor organizations unite on the 115th International Working People’s Day under one banner to strongly protest the imperialist and neoliberal policies of labor contractualization and ‘ENDO’, systematic union busting, suppression of workers’ rights, and the prevailing oppressive working conditions utilized by capitalists, the Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (PKM-NDFP) calls on all working class and the peasant masses nationwide to take advantage of the social conditions and wage revolution to overthrow the joint class dictatorship of landlords and big bourgeoisie.
“It is the historical duty of the Filipino working class and proletariat to lead the national democratic revolution to victory. The basic alliance of workers and peasants should now more than ever be unified and strengthened in the face of more challenges under the tyrannical rule of Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” according to PKM Spokesperson Andres Agtalon.
“It is the duty of workers and peasant sectors to reach out to millions of Filipinos here and abroad and draw them into the people’s democratic revolution.”
“We invite workers in factories, economic enclaves and offices, as well as service sector employees from BPOs who are severely exploited by local and foreign businesses to integrate and live with poor peasants in the countryside and in the guerilla zones of the New People’s Army (NPA). Let us strengthen the basic alliance of workers and peasants and achieve more victories for the revolution,” Agtalon said.
Agtalon said the NPA that is comprised mainly of poor and landless peasants and farmworkers all over the country is always in need of fresh boost and new recruits from the ranks of workers and intellectuals.
“The Communist Party of the Philippines, through PKM and revolutionary mass organizations in the countryside, are waging agrarian revolution at varying levels. It is building the revolutionary mass base through consolidating organs of political power. It is leading the NPA to greater strengths and victorious tactical offensives. We need workers to be in the forefront of these struggles.”
The basic alliance of workers and peasants should carry out various forms of revolutionary struggle to overthrow the class dictatorship of the bourgeoisie, build a socialist state and engage in continuous socialist revolution in the political, socio-economic and cultural fields.
https://www.ndfp.org/fulfill-the-tasks-of-the-worker-peasant-basic-alliance-to-win-the-revolution-and-build-a-socialist-future/
Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid
National Democratic Front of the Philippines
Labor Day 2018 | PRESS RELEASE
Reference: Andres Agtalon, Spokesperson, PKM-NDFP
As the country’s largest labor organizations unite on the 115th International Working People’s Day under one banner to strongly protest the imperialist and neoliberal policies of labor contractualization and ‘ENDO’, systematic union busting, suppression of workers’ rights, and the prevailing oppressive working conditions utilized by capitalists, the Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid-National Democratic Front of the Philippines (PKM-NDFP) calls on all working class and the peasant masses nationwide to take advantage of the social conditions and wage revolution to overthrow the joint class dictatorship of landlords and big bourgeoisie.
“It is the historical duty of the Filipino working class and proletariat to lead the national democratic revolution to victory. The basic alliance of workers and peasants should now more than ever be unified and strengthened in the face of more challenges under the tyrannical rule of Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” according to PKM Spokesperson Andres Agtalon.
“It is the duty of workers and peasant sectors to reach out to millions of Filipinos here and abroad and draw them into the people’s democratic revolution.”
“We invite workers in factories, economic enclaves and offices, as well as service sector employees from BPOs who are severely exploited by local and foreign businesses to integrate and live with poor peasants in the countryside and in the guerilla zones of the New People’s Army (NPA). Let us strengthen the basic alliance of workers and peasants and achieve more victories for the revolution,” Agtalon said.
Agtalon said the NPA that is comprised mainly of poor and landless peasants and farmworkers all over the country is always in need of fresh boost and new recruits from the ranks of workers and intellectuals.
“The Communist Party of the Philippines, through PKM and revolutionary mass organizations in the countryside, are waging agrarian revolution at varying levels. It is building the revolutionary mass base through consolidating organs of political power. It is leading the NPA to greater strengths and victorious tactical offensives. We need workers to be in the forefront of these struggles.”
The basic alliance of workers and peasants should carry out various forms of revolutionary struggle to overthrow the class dictatorship of the bourgeoisie, build a socialist state and engage in continuous socialist revolution in the political, socio-economic and cultural fields.
https://www.ndfp.org/fulfill-the-tasks-of-the-worker-peasant-basic-alliance-to-win-the-revolution-and-build-a-socialist-future/
Farmers, workers mark Karl Marx anniversary
From the Visayan Daily Star (May 1): Farmers, workers mark Karl Marx anniversary
Red flags bearing the hammer and sickle filled Rizal-Gatuslao streets of Bacolod City last yesterday as militants, mostly farmers and workers, marked the birth anniversary of their icon for social reform.
Close to a thousand militants marched from three points of Negros Occidental going to the downtown area of Bacolod City to celebrate the 200th birthday of Karl Marx today and to kick-off the international Labor Day protest.
Members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kilusang Mambubukid ng Pilipinas, and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan marched from Murcia (central), Bago City (south), and Silay City (north) to commemorate the life and history of Karl Marx, NFSW chair Rolando Rillo said last night.
He said therewere about 400 individuals from Silay, about 250 from Bago City, and 300 from Murcia who joined the march.
Most of the rallyists brought torches, red flags bearing the hammer and sickle that symbolize Marx’s ideology on communism, and placards with statements on neo-liberalization and contractualization.
Rillosaid that, as Marx discovered, the unity of farmers and workers is significant in changing society and uplifting their current situation.
“They are the progressive force in society and their unity will help their concerns to free them from current situation,” he told the DAILY STAR.
He also said that Negrenses should learn from Marx’s ideologies as they inspired the farmers and workers to fight for their rights for land reform amid the industrialization on a national scale.
Marx, as a social scientist, had been very significant in helping to show that progress starts in the hands of the farmers and workers, he added.
A short program was conducted in front of the San Sebastian Cathedral last night where militants listened to speeches about Karl Marx and sang the “Internationale”, the communist song.
Rillo said they will camp in front of the Department of Labor and Employment Provincial Office after the program and hold cultural presentations.
Today, NFSW and other partner organizations will march along Araneta Street of Bacolod to air their sentiments on labor issues like President Rodrigo Duterte’s non-signing of the law to end contractualization, and farmworkers wage increase, Rillo added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/May/01/topstory9.htm
Red flags bearing the hammer and sickle filled Rizal-Gatuslao streets of Bacolod City last yesterday as militants, mostly farmers and workers, marked the birth anniversary of their icon for social reform.
Close to a thousand militants marched from three points of Negros Occidental going to the downtown area of Bacolod City to celebrate the 200th birthday of Karl Marx today and to kick-off the international Labor Day protest.
Members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kilusang Mambubukid ng Pilipinas, and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan marched from Murcia (central), Bago City (south), and Silay City (north) to commemorate the life and history of Karl Marx, NFSW chair Rolando Rillo said last night.
He said therewere about 400 individuals from Silay, about 250 from Bago City, and 300 from Murcia who joined the march.
Most of the rallyists brought torches, red flags bearing the hammer and sickle that symbolize Marx’s ideology on communism, and placards with statements on neo-liberalization and contractualization.
Rillosaid that, as Marx discovered, the unity of farmers and workers is significant in changing society and uplifting their current situation.
“They are the progressive force in society and their unity will help their concerns to free them from current situation,” he told the DAILY STAR.
He also said that Negrenses should learn from Marx’s ideologies as they inspired the farmers and workers to fight for their rights for land reform amid the industrialization on a national scale.
Marx, as a social scientist, had been very significant in helping to show that progress starts in the hands of the farmers and workers, he added.
A short program was conducted in front of the San Sebastian Cathedral last night where militants listened to speeches about Karl Marx and sang the “Internationale”, the communist song.
Rillo said they will camp in front of the Department of Labor and Employment Provincial Office after the program and hold cultural presentations.
Today, NFSW and other partner organizations will march along Araneta Street of Bacolod to air their sentiments on labor issues like President Rodrigo Duterte’s non-signing of the law to end contractualization, and farmworkers wage increase, Rillo added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/May/01/topstory9.htm
Zamboanga Sibugay execs surrender 45 high-powered firearms
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): Zamboanga Sibugay execs surrender 45 high-powered firearms
Officials of Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay pose for photo session together with police and military officials during the surrender ceremony on Monday of high-powered guns. (Photo couortesy: PRO-9 PIO)
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Forty-five assorted high-powered firearms were voluntarily surrendered by local government officials in two towns of Zamboanga Sibugay province, a top police official said Tuesday.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, said the firearms were surrendered on Monday by town and barangay officials of Alicia and Tungawan.
Beltran said that 39 of the 45 firearms were surrendered by municipal and barangay officials of Alicia led by Mayor Yashier Musa and Vice Mayor Humberto Sotto.
The surrendered firearms consisted of the 29 home-made 12-gauge shotguns; three M-16 rifles; two M-14 rifles; one Caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle; one M203 grenade launcher; and three caliber .45 pistols.
The surrender of the firearms was facilitated by Chief Insp. Rico Pondol, the police chief of Alicia, at the town plaza in Barangay Poblacion.
Meanwhile, the remaining six firearms were surrendered by Mobin Tamonan, the barangay chairperson of Tigpalay, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Beltran said the firearms that Tamonan surrendered were two Shooters 12-gauge shotguns; three homemade 12-gauge shotguns; and a 9-mm pistol.
Beltran said the campaign to account loose firearms in the region will continue in line with the campaign against unlicensed guns of President Rodrigo Duterte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033793
Officials of Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay pose for photo session together with police and military officials during the surrender ceremony on Monday of high-powered guns. (Photo couortesy: PRO-9 PIO)
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Forty-five assorted high-powered firearms were voluntarily surrendered by local government officials in two towns of Zamboanga Sibugay province, a top police official said Tuesday.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director, said the firearms were surrendered on Monday by town and barangay officials of Alicia and Tungawan.
Beltran said that 39 of the 45 firearms were surrendered by municipal and barangay officials of Alicia led by Mayor Yashier Musa and Vice Mayor Humberto Sotto.
The surrendered firearms consisted of the 29 home-made 12-gauge shotguns; three M-16 rifles; two M-14 rifles; one Caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle; one M203 grenade launcher; and three caliber .45 pistols.
The surrender of the firearms was facilitated by Chief Insp. Rico Pondol, the police chief of Alicia, at the town plaza in Barangay Poblacion.
Meanwhile, the remaining six firearms were surrendered by Mobin Tamonan, the barangay chairperson of Tigpalay, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Beltran said the firearms that Tamonan surrendered were two Shooters 12-gauge shotguns; three homemade 12-gauge shotguns; and a 9-mm pistol.
Beltran said the campaign to account loose firearms in the region will continue in line with the campaign against unlicensed guns of President Rodrigo Duterte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033793
Soldier hurt in Cotabato City ambush dies
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): Soldier hurt in Cotabato City ambush dies
The soldier injured in Monday morning’s attack by suspected IS-linked militants has died while being treated in a government hospital here, raising to three the number of government troops killed by riding-in-tandem gunmen here and in Sultan Kudarat.
Authorities blamed the IS - linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the two separate attacks against members of the Philippine Army here and in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.
Police Inspector Norberto Clayca, deputy chief of Cotabato City police station 4, said Private First Class Richard Bendanillo of the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion, died while getting medical attention at a government hospital several hours after he and companion, Corporal Nelson Paimalan, were ambushed in Barangay Kalanganan here.
Clayca said Paimalan died on the spot while Bendanillo sustained multiple gunshot wounds and rushed by responding policemen to a hospital.
The duo were returning home on board a motorbike from marketing chores when two men, also riding on a separate motorbike, shot them from behind using .45 - caliber pistols. Police said among the suspects were BIFF hitmen who were getting back at government forces for their losses in recent military offensives in Maguindanao.
Police are reviewing CCTV footages of business establishments near the ambush site.
In Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, police are also blaming the BIFF hit squad in the murder of Corporal Ruel Dordas of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB).
Senior Supt. James Gulmatico, Sultan Kudarat provincial police director, said Dordas was with Sgt. Julhaib Ajirul, also of 33rd IB, onboard a motorbike going to their base from a peacekeeping mission in nearby village when they were waylaid in Barangay Tinumugues, Lambayong at 7:30 p.m. last Sunday.
Dordas died on the spot while Sgt. Ajirul remains in critical condition at a hospital in Tacurong City. Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 33rd IB commander, condemned the attack and vowed to bring the perpetrators before the bar of justice.
Cabunoc said his men were reaching out to communities to bring peace and yet they were waylaid. He sought the help of villagers to help the Army and the police identify and arrest the gunmen.
Police said initial investigation showed the BIFF had a hand in the ambush in Lambayong town.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033801
The soldier injured in Monday morning’s attack by suspected IS-linked militants has died while being treated in a government hospital here, raising to three the number of government troops killed by riding-in-tandem gunmen here and in Sultan Kudarat.
Authorities blamed the IS - linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the two separate attacks against members of the Philippine Army here and in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.
Police Inspector Norberto Clayca, deputy chief of Cotabato City police station 4, said Private First Class Richard Bendanillo of the Army’s 5th Special Forces Battalion, died while getting medical attention at a government hospital several hours after he and companion, Corporal Nelson Paimalan, were ambushed in Barangay Kalanganan here.
Clayca said Paimalan died on the spot while Bendanillo sustained multiple gunshot wounds and rushed by responding policemen to a hospital.
The duo were returning home on board a motorbike from marketing chores when two men, also riding on a separate motorbike, shot them from behind using .45 - caliber pistols. Police said among the suspects were BIFF hitmen who were getting back at government forces for their losses in recent military offensives in Maguindanao.
Police are reviewing CCTV footages of business establishments near the ambush site.
In Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, police are also blaming the BIFF hit squad in the murder of Corporal Ruel Dordas of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB).
Senior Supt. James Gulmatico, Sultan Kudarat provincial police director, said Dordas was with Sgt. Julhaib Ajirul, also of 33rd IB, onboard a motorbike going to their base from a peacekeeping mission in nearby village when they were waylaid in Barangay Tinumugues, Lambayong at 7:30 p.m. last Sunday.
Dordas died on the spot while Sgt. Ajirul remains in critical condition at a hospital in Tacurong City. Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 33rd IB commander, condemned the attack and vowed to bring the perpetrators before the bar of justice.
Cabunoc said his men were reaching out to communities to bring peace and yet they were waylaid. He sought the help of villagers to help the Army and the police identify and arrest the gunmen.
Police said initial investigation showed the BIFF had a hand in the ambush in Lambayong town.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033801
Soldier killed, officer hurt in NPA attack
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): Soldier killed, officer hurt in NPA attack
An unarmed soldier was killed while an officer was injured when suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked them in Sitio Sto. Domingo, Barangay Lumintao, Quezon town in Bukidnon province on April 30.
1st Lt. Marisol Fulgosino, civil military operations officer of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, said Tuesday the NPA rebels attacked the victims at about 10 a.m.
Fulgosino identified the slain soldier as Pfc. Joehan Macalong. She, however, did not name the injured officer who has the rank of a lieutenant. A police report, however, identified the injured officer as 1Lt Kevin G. Abad.
Macalong died on the spot while Abad, who was hit on his right thigh, managed to escape from their assailants and asked help from the villagers in the area, police said.
Police said the victims were going to the town center of Quezonto withdraw money at a Palawan Pawnshop branch and were ambushed along the way.
Fulgosino said both victims were unarmed and were in civilian clothes when the attack occurred.
The remains of the slain soldier were brought to a funeral facility while the wounded officer was brought to the nearest treatment facility for proper medical attention.
Lt. Col. Randy Remonte, commanding officer of the 88th Infantry Battalion, said he was dismayed by the fate of the two soldiers. He assured that justice will be served against the perpetrators.
In a statement, Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, denounced the NPA rebels for "their criminal acts of murdering a devoted soldier who only serves the residents of Bukidnon relentlessly to achieve a lasting peace."
He said the attack was a "clear manifestation that NPA rebels were anti-development and resistant to progress."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033844
An unarmed soldier was killed while an officer was injured when suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked them in Sitio Sto. Domingo, Barangay Lumintao, Quezon town in Bukidnon province on April 30.
1st Lt. Marisol Fulgosino, civil military operations officer of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, said Tuesday the NPA rebels attacked the victims at about 10 a.m.
Fulgosino identified the slain soldier as Pfc. Joehan Macalong. She, however, did not name the injured officer who has the rank of a lieutenant. A police report, however, identified the injured officer as 1Lt Kevin G. Abad.
Macalong died on the spot while Abad, who was hit on his right thigh, managed to escape from their assailants and asked help from the villagers in the area, police said.
Police said the victims were going to the town center of Quezonto withdraw money at a Palawan Pawnshop branch and were ambushed along the way.
Fulgosino said both victims were unarmed and were in civilian clothes when the attack occurred.
The remains of the slain soldier were brought to a funeral facility while the wounded officer was brought to the nearest treatment facility for proper medical attention.
Lt. Col. Randy Remonte, commanding officer of the 88th Infantry Battalion, said he was dismayed by the fate of the two soldiers. He assured that justice will be served against the perpetrators.
In a statement, Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, denounced the NPA rebels for "their criminal acts of murdering a devoted soldier who only serves the residents of Bukidnon relentlessly to achieve a lasting peace."
He said the attack was a "clear manifestation that NPA rebels were anti-development and resistant to progress."
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033844
PSG apologizes for temporarily barring reporters from Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1): PSG apologizes for temporarily barring reporters from Palace
LABOR DAY RALLY. Various groups calling for the end of contractualization march towards Mendiola in Manila as part of Labor Day protests on Tuesday, May 1, 2018. (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)
The Presidential Security Group (PSG) on Labor Day apologized for temporarily barring media from entering Malacañang, noting the heightened security implemented for the occasion.
Labor groups on Tuesday converged in various venues for their annual Labor Day protests to demand higher pay and an end to contractualization.
“Because it’s Labor Day, we are anticipating protest rallies [sic] here in Mendiola so we are on heightened alert,” PSG Chief of Staff Col. Potenciano Camba said in a mix of English and Filipino.
“We did not expect that there would be a lot of members of the MPC entering. If there was an inconvenience, we apologize,” he added, referring to members of the Malacañang Press Corps.
Camba denied that there was an order to bar media noting that a similar incident can be avoided if there is proper coordination between PSG and media.
PSG commander Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy described what happened as a simple case of “misunderstanding.”
“There was a misunderstanding. We declared red alert because there were reports of threats that would take place there so we only wanted to be sure,” Dagoy said.
“Soldiers didn’t know that there would be media going there,” he added as he apologized and said that it was unintentional.
Last February, Rappler reporter Pia Ranada was barred from entering the New Executive Building in Malacañang where Palace briefings are usually held.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that online media site Rappler will be barred from entering until they resolve their ownership issue at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The SEC earlier said Rappler violated the Constitution’s restriction on foreign ownership of local media. However, Rappler has debunked this claim stating that it is Filipino-owned.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033777
LABOR DAY RALLY. Various groups calling for the end of contractualization march towards Mendiola in Manila as part of Labor Day protests on Tuesday, May 1, 2018. (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)
The Presidential Security Group (PSG) on Labor Day apologized for temporarily barring media from entering Malacañang, noting the heightened security implemented for the occasion.
Labor groups on Tuesday converged in various venues for their annual Labor Day protests to demand higher pay and an end to contractualization.
“Because it’s Labor Day, we are anticipating protest rallies [sic] here in Mendiola so we are on heightened alert,” PSG Chief of Staff Col. Potenciano Camba said in a mix of English and Filipino.
“We did not expect that there would be a lot of members of the MPC entering. If there was an inconvenience, we apologize,” he added, referring to members of the Malacañang Press Corps.
Camba denied that there was an order to bar media noting that a similar incident can be avoided if there is proper coordination between PSG and media.
PSG commander Brig. Gen. Lope Dagoy described what happened as a simple case of “misunderstanding.”
“There was a misunderstanding. We declared red alert because there were reports of threats that would take place there so we only wanted to be sure,” Dagoy said.
“Soldiers didn’t know that there would be media going there,” he added as he apologized and said that it was unintentional.
Last February, Rappler reporter Pia Ranada was barred from entering the New Executive Building in Malacañang where Palace briefings are usually held.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that online media site Rappler will be barred from entering until they resolve their ownership issue at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The SEC earlier said Rappler violated the Constitution’s restriction on foreign ownership of local media. However, Rappler has debunked this claim stating that it is Filipino-owned.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033777
Military scores Reds for unprovoked attack in Bukidnon
From the Philippine News Agency (May 2): Military scores Reds for unprovoked attack in Bukidnon
The commander of the military's 403rd Infantry Brigade scored the New People's Army (NPA) rebels for their unprovoked assault, which left an unarmed soldier dead and another wounded in Quezon, Bukidnon last April 30.
Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 403rd Infantry Brigade commander, said Tuesday the attack demonstrates the rebels' refusal to allow progress in the area.
"This was a clear manifestation that NPA terrorists were anti-development and resistant to progress. While our soldiers thrive to promote economic growth to insurgency-affected areas, they attacked and ambushed our soldiers in a deceitful manner," Vinoya said.
The two soldiers from the 88th Infantry Battalion were gathering documents needed for a livelihood project at Sitio Sto. Domingo, Barangay Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon when gunned down by the rebels last April 30.
One of the troopers was killed on the spot while his companion was seriously wounded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033855
The commander of the military's 403rd Infantry Brigade scored the New People's Army (NPA) rebels for their unprovoked assault, which left an unarmed soldier dead and another wounded in Quezon, Bukidnon last April 30.
Brig. Gen. Eric Vinoya, 403rd Infantry Brigade commander, said Tuesday the attack demonstrates the rebels' refusal to allow progress in the area.
"This was a clear manifestation that NPA terrorists were anti-development and resistant to progress. While our soldiers thrive to promote economic growth to insurgency-affected areas, they attacked and ambushed our soldiers in a deceitful manner," Vinoya said.
The two soldiers from the 88th Infantry Battalion were gathering documents needed for a livelihood project at Sitio Sto. Domingo, Barangay Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon when gunned down by the rebels last April 30.
One of the troopers was killed on the spot while his companion was seriously wounded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1033855
Soldier shot dead
From Tempo (May 2): Soldier shot dead
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – An unarmed soldier helping local villagers get livelihood assistance from the government was allegedly shot dead by New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in Sitio Sto. Domingo, Baangay Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon Monday morning.
The attack also resulted in the wounding of another soldier. 1Lt. Marisol L. Fulgosino, Civil Military Operation (CMO) officer of the 403rd Infantry said the two soldiers both belonged to the 88thInfantry Battallion. The cadaver of the dead soldier was brought to a funeral facility in nearby Quezon while the wounded soldier was immediately evacuated to the nearest treatment facility.
http://tempo.com.ph/2018/05/02/soldier-shot-dead/
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – An unarmed soldier helping local villagers get livelihood assistance from the government was allegedly shot dead by New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in Sitio Sto. Domingo, Baangay Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon Monday morning.
The attack also resulted in the wounding of another soldier. 1Lt. Marisol L. Fulgosino, Civil Military Operation (CMO) officer of the 403rd Infantry said the two soldiers both belonged to the 88thInfantry Battallion. The cadaver of the dead soldier was brought to a funeral facility in nearby Quezon while the wounded soldier was immediately evacuated to the nearest treatment facility.
http://tempo.com.ph/2018/05/02/soldier-shot-dead/
ReCAAP: Impending Pirate Attack off Sabah
From the Maritime Executive (May 1): ReCAAP: Impending Pirate Attack off Sabah
Members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in an undated video still (file image)
https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/recaap-impending-pirate-attack-off-sabah#gs.RmlAtWg
In an unusual advance notice to shipping, ReCAAP relayed detailed intelligence about a specific band of suspected pirates who are believed to be making plans for a kidnapping attempt. According to ReCAAP, members of the Abu Sayyaf group - a terrorist organization with a history of maritime hijackings and kidnappings - are planning to get under way for a known high risk area off Sabah within the next 24 hours. The report suggests that the gang will be using a blue speedboat with three engines.
Illustration courtesy Asket / Twitter
The advisory recommends that mariners should exercise "extreme caution" if transiting off Lahad Datu.
Abu Sayyaf staged 17 successful attacks on vessels off Sabah between April 2016 and April 2017, but it has not been able to complete an attempt in twelve months, according to STRATFOR. A multinational maritime security effort has prevented the pirates from executing further hijackings, but that does not mean that the risk has disappeared, the security consultancy warns: Abu Sayyaf pirates continue to monitor shipping and pursue opportunities for kidnappings. In addition, the group is still holding some of the mariners it captured during its period of peak activity.
While the Armed Forces of the Philippines have made strides in their campaign to drive Abu Sayyaf out of the Sulu Archipelago, the group's gangs still have a limited capacity for guerilla warfare. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has promised that "he will not stop running after the Abu Sayyaf" until the group "is wiped out," according to spokesman Harry Roque.
Illustration courtesy Asket / Twitter
The advisory recommends that mariners should exercise "extreme caution" if transiting off Lahad Datu.
Abu Sayyaf staged 17 successful attacks on vessels off Sabah between April 2016 and April 2017, but it has not been able to complete an attempt in twelve months, according to STRATFOR. A multinational maritime security effort has prevented the pirates from executing further hijackings, but that does not mean that the risk has disappeared, the security consultancy warns: Abu Sayyaf pirates continue to monitor shipping and pursue opportunities for kidnappings. In addition, the group is still holding some of the mariners it captured during its period of peak activity.
While the Armed Forces of the Philippines have made strides in their campaign to drive Abu Sayyaf out of the Sulu Archipelago, the group's gangs still have a limited capacity for guerilla warfare. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has promised that "he will not stop running after the Abu Sayyaf" until the group "is wiped out," according to spokesman Harry Roque.
https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/recaap-impending-pirate-attack-off-sabah#gs.RmlAtWg
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