IEP/BIFM/BIFF: Lambayong- Sultan Kudarat

From the Islamic Emirate of the Philippines (IEP) Facebook page (Jun 28): Lambayong- Sultan Kudarat



Latest update on the ongoing fight of the Mujahideen and the infedels in Kulasi, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, Philippines

... Last night around 6pm, the Mujaheedin were bombarding 60mm mortar against the AFP infedels and 1 Kennedy vehicle was down, all of the passengers were killed and one is missing from the attack.

Currently the total casualties from this military unrest is more than 70 AFP infidels Dead and more than 30 are wounded and from the Mujahideen, 2 were Martyred and 2 are wounded.

The BIFF Mujahideen changed their offensive strategy attack against the AFP from a conventional warfare to a guerilla one. They are attacking and will continue to attack AFP with the guerilla offensive strategy.

We will continue to give accurate and up to date news fresh fro the battle field. Insha'ALLAH

Please make Du'a for our Hoorable Mujahideen and don't forget to give everything that you can give in support to The Honorable Defenders of our DEEN.


See More

IEP/BIFM/BIFF: Ummah Updates (Jul 6)

From the Islamic Emirate of the Philippines (IEP) Facebook page (Jul 6): Ummah Updates


 
Yesterday - C1 30 airplane full of soldiers and military equipments landed in Awang Airport, Cotabato City, Philippines

AFP infidels invaded Dulawan, Datu Piang with 12 vehicles, including 6x6 vehicles and tanks, they have military artillery with 2pcs 105mm canons and hundreds of foot soldiers.

They have crossed and penetrated right inside the BIFF territory, they arrived in the area but suffered a surprise attack from the BIFF Mujahideen.

They were surprised by the attack and they don't know where the shots were coming from, they were forced to withdraw, as they were withdrawing from the area, some of the Mujahideen were waiting for them by the exit points and this cause them to suffer more than 60 casualties.

 Their 2 tanks were destroyed so they were forced to withdraw back out to the Center of Dulawan

In addition, 2 speed boats were intercepted somewhere in Datu Piang rivers and were damaged, casualties were not yet verified.

So far, no Martyrs were reported

 The Mujahideen collected 1pc. M60 machine-gun with ammunition, more booty were collected, these were not recorded for the moment but we will be updating this soon. Insha'ALLAH

Today - Bombardment from the infidels started with 81mm in (Pikit) targeting Ganta area and 105mm from the center of Datu Piang, this commenced this afternoon and still continues to this moment at 11:00 pm.

We will be updating the UMMAH for more Fresh and Accurate news. Insha'ALLAH

Please make Du'a for our Honorable Mujahideen and don't forget to give everything that you can give in support to The Honorable Defenders of our DEEN.
 

Gov’t, Moro breakaway faction clash repeatedly

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 7): Gov’t, Moro breakaway faction clash repeatedly

Government forces on Saturday launched a major assault in Maguindanao to flush out members of the so-called Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a recent breakaway rebel faction.

Maj. Gen. Romeo Gapuz, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, said the offensive was conducted in coordination with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which is engaged in peace negotiations with the government.

Gapuz said the BIFF, a breakaway group of the MILF, was “hell bent on derailing the peace process” between the MILF and the government.

Led by former MILF commander Ameril Umra Kato, the BIFF broke away from the MILF after disagreements on the conduct of the peace talks.

Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th ID spokesperson, said the first encounter between forces from the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and BIFF rebels occurred in Sitio Dam, Barangay Damablas, Datu Piang at around 10:40 a.m. on Saturday.

It was followed by a clash between the breakaway group and elements of the 45th Infantry Brigade in Barangay Dasawao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha town, about 20 minutes later.

Another encounter transpired about the same time in Sitio Mapagkaya, Barangay Paidu Polangi, in Pikit, North Cotabato.

Hermoso believes the BIFF members harassed soldiers in Pikit to divert the attention of the military.

Clashes were still ongoing as of press time. There were no confirmed casualty reports.

Abu Misry Mama, spokesperson of the BIFF, criticized the assault as an “act of terrorism,” explaining that the military trespassed on Moro land.

In a phone interview, Mama said the objective of the government was to paralyze a major camp of the rebel group in Barangay Ganta in Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

“We are using guerrilla warfare, even if we have the capacity for direct confrontation,” Mama said.

Gapuz claimed government forces were in control of the situation.

“We are on top of the situation. We are ready and committed along with our counterparts from the MILF to defend our communities from BIFF abuses and the massive displacements and lost livelihoods they caused which are clear violations of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), and to preserve and guard the primacy of the peace process in Mindanao,” Gapuz said.

Von Al-Haq, spokesperson of the MILF’s military arm, said the government forces were closely coordinating with the leadership of the MILF.

“Our forces were already repositioned to avoid any misencounters,” Al-Haq said.

Last June 19, the BIFF harassed a military detachment in President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat, killing a militiaman and a farmer.

On the same day, the rebel group used sniper rifles and rocket propelled grenades to attack a patrol base of the 33rd Infantry Battalion.

On June 21, eight BIFF members were captured by government forces in Barangay Kulasi, Bagumbayan town.  Five were turned over to the President Quirino municipal police and charged with illegal possession of explosives, while three BIFF members, who were found to be minors, were turned-over to Department of Social Welfare and Development.

A website in the name of Ameril Umra Kato goes under the banner “Islamic Emirate Of The Philippines” and vows to do its part in “establishing the Law of Allah on Earth.”

Kato is facing charges he led attacks in Mindanao after the Supreme Court junked in 2008 a Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain already signed between the Philippine peace panel and the MILF. The MILF said it later expelled Kato.

Kato had given media interviews in the past where he said “the MILF does not represent the real sentiment of the Bangsamoro people."

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/439771/govt-moro-breakaway-faction-clash-repeatedly

ABS-CBN/ANC World Tonight Video News Reports (Jul 6)

From ABS-CBN (Jul 6/7): News Video Reports

US warns against travel to Mindanao
Posted at 07/07/2013 12:46 AM
 


The United States issued a travel warning against the southern Philippines.
The State Department says, Americans should avoid going to Mindanao, particularly Sulu, due to what it calls the high threat of kidnappings and terrorism.
 
The travel advisory comes just days after Australia and Canada issued similar warnings.
 
Earlier this week, the US Embassy in Manila also barred diplomatic staff from traveling to Davao, Cotabato and Zamboanga City.
 
In Malacañang, officials say, they respect the rights of other countries to warn their citizens but noted that the travel advisory was not intended for the entire Philippines. ANC World Tonight, July 6, 2013
 
2 soldiers hurt in roadside blast
Posted at 07/07/2013 12:46 AM
 


A roadside bomb struck an army convoy in Patikul town, Sulu. Two soldiers were injured in the explosion.
 
The troops were in the area to secure a medical mission.
 
Sulu is a known lair of the Abu Sayyaf, which is on the list of the United States' Foreign Terrorist Organizations. ANC World Tonight, July 6, 2013
 
2 soldiers killed in encounter
Posted at 07/07/2013 12:54 AM
 


In North Cotabato, two soldiers were killed in an encounter with armed men in Pikit town.
 
Officials say, the clash erupted after troops confronted the gunmen, believed to be members of a Moro Islamic Liberation Front breakaway group.
 
More soldiers have been deployed to the area. -- ANC, World Tonight, July 6, 2013
 
Pinoy peacekeepers staying until August 11
Posted at 07/06/2013 10:22 AM
 


MANILA, Philippines -- More than 300 Filipino peacekeepers will stay in the Golan Heights until their tour of duty ends on August 11.

But extending their mission will still be determined.

Malacañang says President Benigno Aquino III wants the United Nations to ensure the peacekeepers' safety and security first before approving an extension. ANC Headlines, July 6, 2013

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/

Zamboanga’s most wanted criminal killed

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 6): Zamboanga’s most wanted criminal killed



A police photo of Yacob Iyong

Security forces killed Saturday a notorious bandit leader after he tried to toss a grenade on police commandos and army soldiers sent to arrest him in Zamboanga del Norte province in southern Philippines, officials said.
Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, a regional police spokesman, said Yacob Iyong, also one of the most wanted criminals in western Mindanao, was killed in his hideout in Sirawai town where security forces tracked him down.

He said the body was brought to the town of Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay province and handed over to his family.

“While serving the arrest warrants, Yacob resisted arrest and attempted to throw a hand grenade to the arresting officers which prompted the operating troops to shoot the subject that led to his instantaneous death. Yacob had multiple murder cases,” Huesca said.

The warrants were issued by Judge Reubin Lo. Maraon, of the Regional Trial Court Branch 24 in Zamboanga Sibugay. No other details about the slain bandit leader was released by the police or military.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2013/07/zamboangas-most-wanted-criminal-killed.html

Modernization always in Air Force pipeline of requests — spokesman

From the Daily Tribune (Jul 7): Modernization always in Air Force pipeline of requests — spokesman

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has admitted that the recent crash of an old and decrepit OV-10 Bronco fighter jet calls for the modernization of the command even before President Aquino promised to modernize the PAF.

Col. Miguel Ocol, PAF spokesman, said that modernization has always been a request of the PAF even before the crash that occurred on June 23. As of press time, both pilots, Maj. Jonathan Ybañez and 1st Lt. Abner Trust Nacionin, are still missing.

“It’s always in the pipeline of request,” Ocol told The Daily Tribune in a text message.

The PAF spokesman denied that both pilots were neophytes that’s why the plane crashed five minutes before landing in Puerto Princesa City air force base.

“They were seasoned pilots,” the spokesman added. Two weeks after the crash, the remains of Ybañez and Nacionin have yet to be retrieved, believed to be trapped under the fuselage of the ill-fated Bronco fighter jet.

“They could be inside the fuselage,” Commodore Joseph Rustom Peña was quoted as saying. Ybañez and Nacionin were flying to test the OV-10’s night proficiency when it crashed past 7 p.m. of June 23.

As early as June 26, Peña already presumed the missing pilots dead if anyone would read between the lines carefully his statement to the media. “Well, the standard 48 hours’ critical time for any survivor had lapsed. It’s been three nights,” Peña was quoted as saying.

A research by this paper confirmed that no more country uses OV-10 today, except the Philippines. Original users of the plane, the US Air Force and Navy, last flew their OV-10 18 years ago. All seven nations that bought the planes in recent years have placed the plane in their museums.

During the last 10 years, seven nations — Venezuela, Colombia, Germany, Indonesia, Morocco, Philippines and Thailand — purchased several OV-10s, but only the Philippines, with 11 more of this plane, uses the decrepit aircraft.

The Royal Thai Air Force was the last to decommission the planes in 2003. Ocol confirmed there are still 11 OV-10s in the PAF. “Yes 11. They are grounded,” the spokesman confirmed.

During PAF’s 66th anniversary last July 1, President Aquino claimed that the national government will allocate P75 billion to rebuild the PAF in the next five years.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/16305-modernization-always-in-air-force-pipeline-of-requests-spokesman

Japanese researcher interns at MILF ceasefire committee

From the MILF Website (Jul 6): Japanese researcher interns at MILF ceasefire committee



A University Research Fellow and Partnership Project for Peacebuilding and Capacity Development, Hiroshima University had applied for internship at the MILF Coordinating Committee on Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) or simply ceasefire committee and the same was approved by the MILF peace panel, which has supervisory jurisdiction over the MILF CCCH.
  
Ms. Meg Kagawa of the Hiroshima University-Japan will embed with the MILF CCCH from the period June 28-July 9, this year. As an intern, she will go with the MILF CCCH on field activities, area visitations, advocacy, dialogue, consultation and other functions this Committee will attend to.

Ms. Meg is a PhD candidate at the Osaka University.

Ms. Meg is also the first ever inter of this Committee since its inception in 1997. It is important to note that said first Intern is a Japanese fellow from a prestigious academic institution of Hiroshima which is known as one of the peace centers in the world over.

Ms. Meg has known many Moros and non-Moros in Mindanao especially those who had undergone peace seminars in Hiroshima University in Japan.

Her internship has been fully coordinated with the government CCCH. A letter to the effect was signed by Abbas Salung and sent to his counterpart in government.

Salung is the acting chairman of the MILF CCCH. He replaced Said Sheikh, now a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission.

In her meeting with the MILF peace panel, Mohagher Iqbal, the chair, had expressed gratitude to Ms. Meg for choosing the MILF CCCH as her field of study and internship and assured her of every form of help to ensure the success of her endeavor.

However, he was advised to make extra precaution especially travelling unaccompanied.

http://www.luwaran.com/

55 political families have unbreakable hold on power, one clan for 43 years

From GMA News (Jul 6): 55 political families have unbreakable hold on power, one clan for 43 years

Among the 18,000 elected officials who assumed office on July 1 is a small group of congressmen, mayors and governors who came from the most resilient of political families – they have held on to a post for at least two decades, uninterrupted.

At least 55 political families will have each controlled an elective post for 20 to 40 years straight when their scions' fresh terms end in 2016, according to findings of GMA News Research based on the Commission on Elections' list of proclaimed winners.

At least one political clan, the Abadillas, will have governed the town of Banna in Ilocos Norte for 43 uninterrupted years by 2016.

At least nine political families will each have held a post for more than 30 years uninterrupted.

At least 45 other political clans will each rule over an incumbent post for more than 20 years straight by 2016.


The elite circle is led by the Abadilla family, whose members will hold the post of mayor of Banna (Espiritu) in Ilocos Norte for 43 straight years, from 1971-2016. (In computing the years, GMA News Research deducted the OIC years of 1986-1988 for local posts and 1986-1987 for congressional posts.)

Three political families will each occupy a congressional post for 37 straight years by 2016: Albano, Isabela First District; Cojuangco, Tarlac First District; and Ortega, La Union First District. Members of these families were colleagues since the Interim Batasang Pambansa in 1978, although all three clans were elected congressmen earlier than that.

The time of these three families in the House of Representatives started many years before their uninterrupted reign. The Ortega clan will represent La Union's First District for a total of 58 years by 2016 as its stint began in 1934. The Cojuangcos will clock a total of 57 years as Tarlac First District congressman by 2016, they first held the post in 1907. The Albano family will be on its 45th year as Isabela First District representative by 2016.

(click image to enlarge)
 
For 35 years, from 1979-2016, the Gironella family holds the mayoralty post of Salcedo in Ilocos Sur. The Mamba clan occupies the post of mayor of Tuao, Cagayan also for those years.

Members of the Purisima family will control the mayoralty post of San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur for 34 years, from 1980-2016. Members of the Vargas family will occupy the mayoralty post of Abulug, Cagayan also for 34 years, also from 1980-2016.

 Members of the Durano and Zubiri families are contemporaries in the House of Representatives since the Regular Batasang Pambansa in 1984 and will continue to be so until 2016. The Duranos represent Cebu's Fifth District while the Zubiris hold Bukidnon's Third District.

Two families were able to regain their posts after losing sometime in their 30-year run.

The Dy family clocked 32 straight years as Isabela governor, from 1970 until 2004, when it lost to broadcaster now Elections Commissioner Grace Padaca. The clan reclaimed the post in 2010 and won again in May 2013.

The Reyes family represented the Lone District of Marinduque for 31 years, from 1978 until 2010, when it lost to Lord Allan Jay Velasco. In the May 2013 polls, Regina Reyes won over Velasco.

Losers

Two families who each ruled over a post for at least three uninterrupted decades lost for the first time in the May 2013 elections.

The Payumo clan, which before the elections holds the distinction of staying in an incumbent post for the longest time at 48 straight years (1963-2013, minus OIC years), lost its hold on the Dinalupihan mayoralty post. The loss of the Payumos is the gain of the Garcias, yet another prominent political family in Bataan.

The Gordons' 31-year reign in the Olongapo City Hall was toppled last May. They held the post since 1980. Patriarch James Leonard Gordon was also the first mayor of the city, elected from 1963-1967.

Three political families who had each ruled over a post for 30 years or more failed to regain the post last elections: the Felix family for Cainta mayor, the Kintanar family for Cebu Second (Fourth before) District representative and San Luis for Laguna governor. All fielded candidates but lost.

These political families each occupied an elective post for more than 30 years but appear to have lost interest in the office: Cuneta for Pasay City mayor, Yulo for mayor of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, Leviste for Batangas governor, Carmona for mayor of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental and Rodriguez for Rizal governor. These families did not field any candidate to those posts but have members who are either incumbents or sought other positions

20+ years

At least 45 families each will control a post for 20 years and more when their new term ends in 2016.

Of these 45 political families, at least 26 each control a district representative for more than 20 years straight. Some of these families spent years on their district posts on top of the 20-year-something unbroken reign.

The Fuentebella family, for instance, represented Camarines Sur's Third District (now the Fourth District) for a total of 67 years starting 1910. The Espinosa clan occupied the congressional seat of Masbate's First District for a total of 57 years beginning 1934.

At least 14 of the 45 political families will each hold a mayoralty post for more than 20 years straight by 2016. Half of these families are local chief executives of cities, including four from Metro Manila—Binay in Makati, Estrada-Gomez in San Juan, Eusebio in Pasig and Aguilar in Las Piñas.

At least three of these families had been elected mayors for many years before the uninterrupted reign. The Ecleo family is the local chief executive of San Jose town for a total of 48 years by 2016, starting in 1963 when it was still part of Surigao del Norte.

The Marañon clan governed Sagay City for a total of 42 years beginning 1970. Former President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada was mayor of San Juan from 1969-1986; the family will rule the city for a total of 41 years by 2016.

Five of the 45 political families rule as governors for more than two decades straight.

The families of Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte, Petilla of Leyte and Yñares of Rizal will each govern their provinces for 24 years uninterrupted by 2016. The Amante clan of Agusan del Norte and the Villafuerte family of Camarines Sur will manage their respective provincial capitols for 21 years by 2016.
 

2 soldiers killed in North Cotabato clash

From ABS-CBN (Jul 6): 2 soldiers killed in North Cotabato clash

Two soldiers of the 7th Infantry Battalion under the 6th Infantry Division were killed in an encounter with an armed group in Paidupulangi in Pikit, North Cotabato Saturday morning.

Captain Antonio Bulao, CMO officer of the 602nd Brigade, said they cannot divulge the identities of the casualties because they haven't informed their families yet.

"Hindi pa natin pwedeng pangalanan, ito ‘yung protocol natin, hindi pa kasi namin naipaalam sa immediate family nila,” said Bulao.

The encounter started when government troops launched a law enforcement operation in Paidupulangi to stop the alleged lawless groups from entering North Cotabato.

"Law enforcement ‘yung ginawa namin, pinipigilan kasi naming na makapasok sila sa area namin para matigil na ang mga harassment dito. Pinaputukan nila kami kaya wala kaming choice," Bulao said.

The encounter happened between the areas of Pikit, North Cotabato and Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

Bulao said civilians were not affected in the clash.

"Inaabisuhan na kasi namin sila bago ang operation, nakipagtulungan naman sila kaya wala namang nasaktan sa kanila," he said.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces have yet to determine if there are casualties from the side of the lawless elements.

Bulao also said they still have to verify if these lawless elements are members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

"Hindi pa natin ma-confirm sa ngayon kung anong grupo talaga sila, hindi tayo basta-basta makakapagsabi kung BIFF ba sila o ano,” Bulao said.

The clash started at 11:45 a.m. and continued until around 2 p.m.

Col. Dickson Hermoso, Division Public Affairs Officer of the 6th ID, said they will deploy more troops to the area.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/07/06/13/2-soldiers-killed-north-cotabato-clash

BRP Ramon Alcaraz departs for Hawaii

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6): BRP Ramon Alcaraz departs for Hawaii

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), the country's Hamilton-class cutter in service, has left San Diego, California Saturday morning (Philippine time) for its port call in Hawaii.

"She left her San Diego anchorage around 6:30 a.m. (Philippine time) for her Hawaii voyage," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.

The Filipino frigate docked at San Diego, California for re-fueling and re-provisioning last June 28.

Hawaii is the second port call of the frigate as it cruises back to the Philippines.

The distance between San Diego, California to Hawaii is around 2,400 miles.

She is expected to be in the country by first week of August for the commissioning in September.

BRP Ramon Alcaraz successfully concluded her Panama Canal crossing last June 18, becoming the first Filipino warship to cross the historic waterway.

The Philippine frigate departed Charleston, South Carolina last June 10 and made a brief stopover at Mayport, Florida to successfully test fire her 76-mm Oto Melara automatic cannon and speed trials attained at 25 knots without any difficulty.

The ship's top speed is placed between 29 to 31 knots.

On July 2, Concepcion D. Alcaraz, the widow of Filipino naval hero Commodore Ramon Alcaraz, visited the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the namesake ship of her husband, during its port call in San Diego, California.

During her visit, Mrs. Alcaraz signed copies of the book "Mrs. Alcaraz, A Biography" and "Commodore Alcaraz; First Victim of President Marcos."

She was accompanied by granddaughter Hailey Marshall and daughters Ramona and Efigenia in their short tour of the Filipino frigate.

Commodore Alcaraz gained distinction in World War II by shooting down three Japanese Zero fighters who tried to attack his ship, the Abra (Q-112) during the first months of the war.

Consul General Maria Hellen De La Vega and the Filipino-American community in California also visited the BRP Alcaraz last July 1.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=541609

NPA Bicol spokesman among 8 rebels killed in Sorsogon clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6): NPA Bicol spokesman among 8 rebels killed in Sorsogon clash

The spokesperson of the New People’s Army (NPA)/National Democratic Front in Bicol was among the eight rebels slain in Thursday's encounter in a hinterland village in Juban, Sorsogon, a statement from NPA Celso Minguez Command confirmed Saturday.

Samuel Guerrero, Celso Minguez Command spokesperson, said in the statement obtained by the PNA that Ka Greg Bañares, NDF Bicol spokesperson, was among the eight rebels killed in the encounter with Army soldiers.

Guerrero said aside from Bañares, whose real name was Frankie Joe Soriano, a native of Camarines Sur, other slain rebels were Pehing Hipa, alias Ka Miloy; Christine Puche, alias Ka Nel; Ted Palacio, alias Ka Gary; David Llunar, or Ka Rey; Romero Añonuevo, or Ka Nene; William Villanueva, Jr., or Ka Jay, and Ailyn Calma, alias Ka Kevin -- all members of the communist guerrilla front operating in Sorsogon.

Guerrero condemned the attack as a “treachery,” as he claimed that Bañares, Palacio and Puche were unarmed and were fleeing the scene when soldiers fired at them.

He said the attack carried out by soldiers belonging to the 31st Army Infantry Battalion operating in Sorsogon violated the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.

The rebel spokesman claimed the attacking soldiers even fired at the dead rebels as “finishing touches” to ensure that they were dead.

Guerrero said the Army troops carted away some P300,000, aside from four laptop computers and high-powered firearms that the soldiers recovered from the fight scene.

Army Col. Joselito Kakilala, 903rd Infantry Battalion commander, said in a phone interview that military intelligence confirmed that Bañares was among the slain rebels.

Kakilala, however, dismissed the rebels’ accusation that the military employed excessive force during the attack, saying “It’s a mere propaganda.”

He said the engagement between the Army soldiers and the NPA rebels resulted in a 35-minute fierce firefight where government forces outmaneuvered the rebels.

He denied that soldiers employed “finishing touches” strategy during the firefight, saying “Our soldiers were trained to engage an enemy on the one shot-one kill rule in engagement.”

When asked on the possible strength of the NPA rebels in Sorsogon, Kakilala said that so far, there are only around 40 armed guerrillas operating in Sorsogon.

He commended his men for a successful combat operation in bringing down the strength of the communist movement, especially the death of Ka Greg Bañares, who he said was one of the movement’s prominent ranking leaders.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=541628

Troops hunting down NPA rebels who ambushed and killed soldier in Zamboanga del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6): Troops hunting down NPA rebels who ambushed and killed soldier in Zamboanga del Sur

Government troops are tracking down the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels responsible in the Friday ambush that killed a soldier undertaking development projects here.

Another soldier was unscathed in the ambush after engaging the NPA rebels, who fled upon sensing the arrival of reinforcement.

Army’s 1st Infantry Division spokesman Capt. Jefferson Somera said the troops are scouring the hinterlands of Guipos municipality in Zamboanga del Sur province in search for the NPA ambushers.

The ambushers belong to the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), according to Somera.

Slain in the ambush, which took place around 8 a.m. Friday in Barangay Magting here, was Corporal (Cpl.) Danilo Saavedra of the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion.

Unscathed was Private First Class (PFC) Rommel Taneo, who managed to engage in a five-minute firefight before the rebels fled.

Somera said the two soldiers belong to the Peace and Development Team (PDT) that is undertaking development project in Barangay Datagan, also in this town.

Somera said the two soldiers were on board a motorcycle driven by Taneo on the way to the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion headquarters when they were ambushed.

Acting 1st Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad Jr. has condemned the atrocity saying “this action of the enemy manifests their anti-development and anti-peace programs.”

“Our troops were there to uplift the socio-economic condition of our fellows but were fired upon in a desperate attempt to disrupt them,” Trinidad said.

Trinidad said the ambush will not stop them from implementing peace and development projects in every community within the area of responsibility of his command.

He dared the NPAs to work hand-in-hand with the troops if it is true that they want peace and development by virtue of Bayanihan “but sad to say, they are not.”

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=541633

2 gov't troops wounded in roadside bombing in Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6): 2 gov't troops wounded in roadside bombing in Mindanao
 
Two Philippine government soldiers got injured Saturday morning in a roadside bombing set off by the rebel group of Abu Sayyaf in a remote village of Southern Philippine province of Sulu, military said.

According to the military, soldiers under the Philippines' Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 were on convoy with military truck and an armored carrier tank at about 6:25 a.m. when the truck was hit by an improvised explosive device planted by the Abu Sayyaf a few kilometers away from its detachment in the village of Bunbun, Patikul town.

"Two soldiers were slightly wounded but the blast failed to damage the truck," said marine commander Colonel Jose Cenabre, adding that the wounded soldiers were brought to the military trauma hospital for treatment after the incident.

He said no firing ensued after the blast and he believed the bomb was triggered remotely.

The marines were immediately alerted and they believed that the roadside bombing could be possible counter attack of Abu Sayyaf following the air strike late last month against the group that left four militants killed and several others wounded.

The Abu Sayyaf was founded in the 1990s and had since perpetrated a number of high-profile attacks, including kidnapping and bombing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=541640

Military launches assault on major Moro rebel camp

From Rappler (Jul 6): Military launches assault on major Moro rebel camp

Government forces launched a major assault to flush out members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao on Saturday, July 6.

Major General Romeo Gapuz, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, said recent "atrocities and threats" perpetrated by the rebel group prompted the military, Philippine National Police, and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to conduct operations.

Gapuz said the BIFF is "hell-bent on derailing the peace process" between the MILF and the government.

Clashes are ongoing as of posting time.

Col Dickson Hermoso, 6th ID spokesperson, said the first encounter between forces from the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and Moro rebels transpired in Sitio Dam, Barangay Damablas, Datu Piang town at around 10:40 am.

It was followed by a clash between the rebel group and elements of the 45th Infantry Brigade in Barangay Dasawao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha town, 20 minutes later.

Another encounter transpired 10 minutes after this in Sitio Mapagkaya, Barangay Paidu Polangi, in Pikit, North Cotabato.

BIFF members harassed the soldiers in Pikit to divert the attention of the military.

There are no confirmed casualties but the MILF's Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) said the BIFF sustained casualties in Datu Piang.

Abu Misry Mama, spokesman of the BIFF, claimed that their fighters damaged 3 government tanks and sank a speedboat. He also said they were able to confiscate one M60 machine gun from the assaulting soldiers.

Col Hermoso denied the claims, saying those were mere propaganda.

On June 19, the BIFF harassed a military detachment in President Quirino town, Sultan Kudarat, killing a militiaman and a farmer.

On the same day, the rebel group used sniper rifles and rocket-propelled grenades to attack a patrol base of the 33rd Infantry Battalion.

Last June 21, 8 BIFF members were captured by government forces in Barangay Kulasi, Bagumbayan town.

Five were turned over to the President Quirino municipal police station and charged with illegal possession of explosives, while 3 more BIFF members, who were found to be minors, were turned over to Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Mama criticized the assault as an act of terrorism. He said the military trespassed on Moro land.

The BIFF spokesman said the objective of the government forces is to paralyze a major camp of the rebel group in Barangay Ganta in Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

"We are using guerilla warfare and not conventional. Even if we have the capacity for direct confrontation we will divert," Mama said.

Gapuz assured that government forces are in control of the situation.

“We are on top of the situation. We are ready and committed along with our counterparts from the MILF to defend our communities from BIFF abuses and the massive displacements and lost livelihoods they cause, which are clear violations of the International Humanitarian Law, and to preserve and guard the primacy of the peace process in Mindanao,” Gapuz said.

Von Al-Haq, spokesman of the MILF's BIAF, explained that the military is closely coordinating with the leadership of the MILF.

"Our forces were already repositioned to avoid any misencounters," Al-Haq said.

Led by former 105th Base commander Ameril Umra Kato, the BIFF broke away from the MILF after serious disagreements on the conduct of the peace talks.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/33092-military-launches-assault-moro-rebel-camp

NPA ambush kills soldier in Zamboanga del Sur

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): NPA ambush kills soldier in Zamboanga del Sur

A soldier was killed after New People's Army (NPA) rebels ambushed his vehicle on Friday in Purok 4, Barangay Magting, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur, army spokesmen said on Saturday. Another soldier riding with the fatality was able to escape with some injury.

Killed was Corporal Danilo Saavedra of the 53rd Infantry Battalion.

Capt. Jefferson Somera, spokesman of the Army's 1st Infantry Division, quoted a report from the 53rd Infantry Battalion's commander:

"[Saavedra] was hit in his back by a bullet but was able to return fire before he passed away. Private First Class Rommel Taneo, who was able to jump out immediately, returned fire to the enemy. The enemy withdrew after five minutes of gun fight, sensing that government reinforcement was arriving."

The Army said the rebels were believed to be from the NPA's Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65709/npa-ambush-kills-soldier-in-zamboanga-del-sur

Daughter of WWII hero Alcaraz feels father's presence on visit to new PH Navy ship

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): Daughter of WWII hero Alcaraz feels father's presence on visit to new PH Navy ship



Capt Ernesto Baldovino, commander of the Navy's newest vessel, the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, with Mrs. Concepcion Alcaraz, widow of the World War II naval hero after whom the ship is named. (photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

(EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is from the Philippine embassy to Washington DC)

WASHINGTON DC -- The daughter of the late Commodore Ramon Alcaraz said she felt her late father’s presence the day she and her mother went aboard the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the latest addition to the Philippine Fleet named in honor of the Filipino World War II naval hero.

“When I came aboard the Alcaraz, I felt so proud and honestly, speechless. I wish I had the words to express the torrent of emotions I experienced,” said Ramona Alcaraz-Moore. “I was extremely close to my father and I so wished he was there; yet I did feel his presence that day.”

Ramona had the chance to board the Alcaraz on Tuesday, a few days after the vessel arrived in San Diego, its last port call in the United States mainland before it resumes its voyage to the Philippines.

She was with her mother, Concepcion, her father’s sister Efigenia Alcaraz-Johnson, her daughter Hailey Marshall, and family friend Santas Tamayo during the visit.

They were received by the officers and crew of the Alcaraz led by Capt. Ernesto Baldovino the day after the visit of Consul General Hellen Barber Dela Vega and members of the Filipino-American Community.

“The presence of Commodore Alcaraz’s family gave the ship's namesake a human dimension that touched the crew,” Baldovino said. “We became more aware of the life of Commodore Alcaraz, his heroism, trials and sacrifices during his entire life.”

“The men and women of the Alcaraz are now more inspired to do the same sacrifices for the country,” he added, as he recalled how the late Navy officer was credited for shooting down three enemy aircraft while serving as commander of a coastal patrol boat at the beginning of the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in 1941.

It was for this feat that the Navy decided to honor Commodore Alcaraz by rechristening the former USCGS Dallas, a Hamilton Class, all-weather, high endurance cutter, in his honor immediately after it was turned over by the United States to the Philippines last year.

“When we found out the Coast Guard cutter was to be named after my father, we were overjoyed and overwhelmed by the honor. My family thought this was such a fitting tribute for my father's accomplishments in his many years of service in the Navy,” said Ramona.

“Unfortunately, my father didn't share details of his exploits. When he spoke of any event, he would just tell me it happened, but gave no details of what he had experienced. In that way, I think he felt that what he did in the name of country and democracy was simply just his duty to perform, no more, no less,” she said.

Commodore Alcaraz and the members of his crew were captured by the Japanese and incarcerated in Bulacan until they were released upon the liberation of the Philippines.
He went on to serve in what would become the Philippine Navy after the country gained independence.

He retired in 1966 and passed away in 2009.

“I was born after my father had already retired from the service. I knew my father as a successful real estate entrepreneur, loving husband and father. He was tough in his upbringing of me, but was also very tender and giving,” recalled Ramona.

“My father instilled in me a strong work ethic and nothing in this world will be given you,” she added. “You have to earn it and in order to be proud of any of your accomplishments you must conduct yourself honestly and with integrity.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65724/daughter-of-wwii-hero-alcaraz-feels-fathers-presence-on-visit-to-new-ph-navy-ship

2 Marines hurt in Sulu roadside blast

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): 2 Marines hurt in Sulu roadside blast



Two Marines were wounded in a roadside bombing in Sulu Saturday morning.

Colonel Rodrigo Gregorio, spokesman of the Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command, said the incident in Sitio Tuwak, Barangay Bonbon, Patikul happened around 6:30 a.m. as troops of Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 and the 2nd Marine Brigade were on their way to Barangay Tagantangan to prepare the area for a medical mission.

The injured personnel were identified as Sergeant Almandres Muhajil and Corporal Antonieto Docdoc.

The M35 truck the soldiers were riding and their V150 armored personnel carrier escort were slightly damaged.

Grogorio said Docdoc had to be airlifted to the KHTB Station Hospital in Barangay Busbus for further medical treatment while Muhajil “only suffered slight injury.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65725/2-marines-hurt-in-sulu-roadside-blast

Former Gazmin spokesman is new 7th ID commander

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): Former Gazmin spokesman is new 7th ID commander



A newly promoted brigadier general who was former spokesman and senior military adviser of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin has been named commander of the Army’s 7th Infantry Division based at Fort Magsaysay in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

Brigadier General Hernando Iriberri, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Matikas” Class 1983 who current commands the 503rd Infantry Brigade, will assume his new post on July 8.

Earlier, military sources said Major General John Bonafos, chief of the Army’s Special Operations Command and a member of PMA “Sandigan” Class 1982, was also being eyed for the 7th ID.

Iriberri replaces Major General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. (PMA “Dimalupig” Class ’81), who was appointed chief of the Northern Luzon Command based at Camp Aquino in Tarlac City, Tarlac following the retirement of Lieutenant General Anthony Alcantara (PMA “Matapat” Class 1979).

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65721/former-gazmin-spokesman-is-new-7th-id-commander

Communist rebels vow revenge for slain NPA spokesman

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): Communist rebels vow revenge for slain NPA spokesman

Communist insurgents Saturday promised revenge after Philippine soldiers killed their regional spokesmen along with seven other rebels in the latest operation against the militants since talks to end one of Asia's longest running insurgencies collapsed.

The Communist Party of the Philippines confirmed that one of the eight rebels killed in the clash in the eastern province of Sorsogon on Thursday was Greg Banares, guerrilla spokesman for the rebel-infested Bicol peninsula.

Along with Banares, whose real name was given as Frankie Joe Soriano, other members of his information group and their security detail were killed in the incident, the rebels said in a statement sent to news agencies.

"The CPP and all revolutionary forces vow to exact justice and punish the perpetrators of this massacre. It calls on all units of the NPA (New People's Army) to carry out more tactical offensives... in Sorsogon and the Bicol region," it added.

The New People's Army is the CPP's guerilla wing.

The military previously said the eight were killed when villagers, tired of guerrilla threats, tipped off the soldiers to the presence of the rebels.

The CPP statement however said that Banares and two of his aides were killed after being captured unarmed.

Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala denied the allegation, calling it an attempt to discredit the government forces.

"They were all armed and they fought back. There was a 35-minute exchange of fire," he said.

While the military would have preferred capturing Banares, his death would still be a blow to the guerrillas whose ranks have fallen to about 4,000 fighters, down from a peak of roughly 26,000 in the 1980s, Zagala said.

"He was influential in their propaganda. He was a key in their recruitment of those with legitimate problems into the war of the CPP against the government."

Banares had been one of the more visible guerrilla figures, frequently issuing statements and even posting on YouTube.

The CPP and the NPA have been fighting successive governments for 44 years in a rebellion that has claimed at least 30,000 lives.

President Benigno Aquino hoped to end the rebellion before his six-year term expires in 2016, but the government said in April that peace talks had collapsed due to rebel demands such as for the release of captured comrades.

In recent months, the communist rebels have launched more assaults, often targeting unarmed soldiers, police, and civilians.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65728/communist-rebels-vow-revenge-for-slain-npa-spokesman

Bicol rebel spokesman among 8 slain in July 4 clash; another NPA dead in new encounter

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): Bicol rebel spokesman among 8 slain in July 4 clash; another NPA dead in new encounter

SORSOGON CITY -- The spokesman of the National Democratic Front in the Bicol region was among the eight communist rebels who died in a clash with Army troops on July 4, the rebels acknowledged Saturday.

This developed as another New People’s Army guerrilla died in an encounter early Saturday morning in Barangay Gabao, Irosin, some 40 kilometers from this city, an Army commander said.

A statement released to media by the NPA’s Celso Minguez Command said Frankie Joe Soriano, who used the nom de guerre Ka (Comrade) Greg Banares, was among the rebel casualties in the July 4 battle in Juban town in this province.

The other fatalities were Pehing Hipa alias Ka Miloy, Ted Palacio alias Ka Gary, David Llunar alias Ka Rey, Romero Anonuevo alias Ka Nene, William Villanueva Jr. alias Ka Jay, Christine Puche alias Ka Nel, and Ailyn Calma alias Ka Kevin.

But a post on the Facebook page of the Army’s 9th Infantry Division said among the slain rebels was Arnel Estiller, alias Ka Ariston, secretary of Larangan 2, Komiteng Probinsya, and John Francis Perez, a member of KOMPROB.

Samuel Guerrero, spokesman of the NPA command in Sorsogon, said Soriano’s unit had in its possession P300,000 cash, laptops and cellular phones, which he said was not reported by the Army among the items its troops recovered.

But Lt. Col. Beerjenson Aquino, commanding officer of the 31st Infantry Battalion, whose troops were involved in both the July 4 and Saturday clashes, denied this, saying all recovered items were properly documented.

He said the cash could have been taken by the other fleeing rebels.

On Saturday’s encounter, Aquino said a platoon from his battalion’s Charlie Company was on patrol when they chanced upon the rebels.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65719/bicol-rebel-spokesman-among-8-slain-in-july-4-clash-another-npa-dead-in-new-encounter

5,000 flee as clashes break out between BIFF, Army 3 days before Ramadan

From InterAksyon (Jul 6): 5,000 flee as clashes break out between BIFF, Army 3 days before Ramadan



An old man carries a fighting cock as he and other residents flee clashes between the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter and military in Paidu Pulangi, Pikit, North Cotabato. (photo by Ferds Ballentes, InterAksyon.com)

Clashes broke out Saturday between the military and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in North Cotabato and Maguindanao, sending civilians fleeing their homes three days before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The fighting is continuing as of this posting and there have been reports of deaths and injuries on both sides, including two Army Special Forces troops reportedly killed in the first clash in Sitio Mapagkaya, Barangay Paidu Palangit, Pikit, North Cotabato at 11 a.m.

The unit the two fatalities belong to is still reportedly pinned down by sniper fire from the rebels, who belong to a faction that broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

However, Colonel Dicson Hermoso, spokesman of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said they are still confirming the information.

The initial clash was followed by two more gun battles in Maguindanao, at Sitio Dam, Barangay Damablas in Datu Piang, which is just across the river from Pikit, and Barangay Dasawao, Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

There have also been reports of fighting in Guindulungan town, also in Maguindanao.

At least 5,000 people have fled their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire.

The 6th ID, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao police office and the MILF contingent to the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities are coordinating efforts to control the hostilities from escalating and spreading.

General Romeo Gapuz, 6th ID commander, accused the BIFF of seeking to sabotage peace talks between the government and MILF.

Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu condemned the violence while ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman appealed to both sides to respect the approach of Ramadan.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/65741/5000-flee-as-clashes-break-out-between-biff-army-3-days-before-ramadan

CPP/NPA: Concerning the battle that occurred in Brgy. Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon on July 4, 2013, and the extreme violation of the Laws of War by the 31st Infantry Battalion

Posted to the CPP Website (Jul 6): Hinggil sa nangyaring labanan sa Brgy. Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon noong Hulyo 4, 2013, at ang matinding paglabag ng 31st Infantry Battalion sa mga Batas ng Digma (Concerning the battle that occurred in Brgy. Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon on July 4, 2013, and the extreme violation of the Laws of War by the 31st Infantry Battalion)

Samuel Guerrero
Spokesperson
NPA Sorsogon Provincial Operations Command (Celso Minguez Command)


 Mariing kinukundena ng Celso Minguez Command ang di-makataong pagpaslang ng 31st Infantry Battalion sa pamumuno ni Col. Virginson Aquino sa walong (8) kasama sa Brgy. Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon nitong Hulyo 4, 2013. Isinagawa ng mga berdugo ng 31st IB ang masaker sa mga kasama bandang 5:20 ng umaga. Namartir sina Ka Greg Bañares, tagapagsalita ng NDF-Bicol (Frankie Joe Soriano), Ka Miloy (Pehing Hipa), Ka Nel (Christine Puche), Ka Gary (Ted Palacio), Ka Rey (David Llunar), Ka Nene (Romero Añonuevo), Ka Jay (William Villanueva, Jr), at Ka Kevin (Ailyn Calma).

[The Celso Minguez Command strongly condemns the inhuman murder of eight (8) (red fighters) by the 31st Infantry Battalion led by Col.. Aquino Virginson (that took place in) Brgy. Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon on July 4, 2013. This massacre was conducted by the executioners of the 31st IB round 5:20 am. Those martyred were Greg Bañares, spokesperson of NDF-Bicol (Frankie Joe Soriano), You Miloy (Pehing HIPA), Ka Nel (Christine Puche), Ka Gary (Ted Palacio), Ka Rey (David Llunar), Ka Nene (Romero Anonuevo ), Ka Jay (William Villanueva, Jr.), and Ka Kevin (Ailyn Calma).]

Ayon sa pagsisiyasat ng Celso Minguez Command at gayundin sa ibinigay na ulat ng mga taumbaryo, tatlo sa walong kasamang namartir ang nakalayo na sa bahay na pinaglabanan at walang dalang mga armas. Sa kabila nito, walang habas pa ring pinagbabaril ng mga sundalo sina Ka Greg, Ka Nel, at Ka Gary. Hindi pa nakuntento ang mga pasista, lahat ng nalugmok na kasama ay binaril sa mukha — malinaw na paglabag sa internasyunal na mga batas ng digma na nagtitiyak sa kaligtasan ng mga di-armado at mga wala nang kakayahang lumaban. Haharapin ni Col. Aquino at ng kanyang mga tauhan ang patung-patong na kaso ng paglabag sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.

[According to investigations by the Celso Minguez Command and reports provided by villagers, three of the eight who were martyred at the house fought without carrying weapons. Despite this, the soldiers wantonly shot Ka Gre, Ka Nel, and Ka Gary. Not yet satisfied, the fascists also shot them in the face - a clear violation of international laws of war that ensure the safety of those who are unarmed and have no ability to resist. Col. Aquino and his staff (are guilty) of violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law.]

Ito ang tunay ng mukha ng Oplan Bayanihan. Sa likod ng mga pakitang-taong pagpapalamuti, kahayupan ang siyang iniuumang ng estado sa mamamayang lumalaban sa kawalan ng tunay na kalayaan at demokrasya. Walang natatanging paraan para sa mamamayan kundi ang magpursigi sa kanilang pagrerebolusyon upang wakasan ang isang sistemang nagkakait sa kanilang karapatan at kabuhayan, at pumapatay sa sinumang naghihimagsik.

[This is the very face of Oplan Bayanihan. Behind the token decoration, the state (is forcing) people to resist the lack of true freedom and democracy. There is no (other) way for the people but to persevere in their revolution to end a system that denies their rights and livelihood, and kills any insurgent.]

Dapat ding ilantad ang pagnanakaw ng mga upisyal at sundalo ng 31st IB sa mga rekurso ng mamamayan. Hindi iniulat ng 31st IB ang kanilang ibinulsang 300T pera na nasa pangangalaga ng mga kasamang namartir. Itinago din nila ang apat (4) na laptop computer, gayundin ang mga cellphone na ginagamit ng mga kasama sa paggampan nila ng mga rebolusyonaryong gawain.

[The theft by the officers and soldiers of the 31st IB of the resources of the people must also be exposed. Not reported by the  31st IB is 300T in money that was in the care of the martyred comrades. They also kept four (4) laptop computers, as well as the mobile phones used by (the martyrs) in carrying out (their) revolutionary activities.]

Pinakamataas na parangal ang iniaalay ng Celso Minguez Command, kaisa ang buong mamamayan ng Sorsogon, sa walong kasamang nagbuwis ng kanilang buhay sa daloy ng kanilang paglilingkod sa mamamayang inaapi at pinagsasamantalahan. Inspirasyon sila sa iba’t ibang uri at sektor ng lipunan na humawak ng armas at maglingkod sa mamamayan sa kanilang pagkamit ng isang lipunang tunay na malaya, makatarungan, at maunlad.

[Celso Minguez Command, along with the entire people of Sorsogon, offers the highest accolades to the eight (martyrs) who gave their lives in their service of the oppressed and exploited. They inspire different types and sectors of society to take up arms and serve the people in achieving a society truly free, fair, and prosperous.]

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130706_hinggil-sa-nangyaring-labanan-sa-brgy-calomayon-juban-sorsogon-noong-hulyo-4-2013-at-ang-matinding-paglabag-ng-31st-infantry-battalion-sa-mga-batas-ng-digma

CPP salutes fallen Bicol revolutionaries, denounces July 4 Juban massacre

From the CPP Website (Jul 6): CPP salutes fallen Bicol revolutionaries, denounces July 4 Juban massacre

The leadership and entire membership of the Communist Party of the Philippines and Red fighters and commanders of the New People’s Army rise up to salute

Frankie Joe Soriano (Ka Greg Bañares)
Christine Puche (Ka Nel)
Ted Palacio (Ka Gary)
Pehing Hipa (Ka Miloy)
David Llunar (Ka Rey)
Romero Añonuevo (Ka Nene)
William Villanueva, Jr (Ka Jay)
Ailyn Calma (Ka Kevin)


who were martyred in the early morning of July 4, 2013 in Barangay Calomayon, Juban, Sorsogon.

Ka Greg Bañares served as spokesperson of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in the Bicol region. He was with other members of the Information Office of the NDFP-Bicol and a security detail of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The CPP denounces the brutal massacre committed by the fascist troops of the 31st IB against the revolutionary martyrs. The CPP demands that the troops and officers involved in the massacre be made to answer for violations of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and pertinent protocols of the Geneva Conventions.

According to initial reports submitted by the NPA Sorsogon Provincial Command, local residents saw Ka Greg, Ka Nel and Ka Gary retreating from the site of the initial fighting. Despite being unarmed, they were seized and summarily-executed. They were shot in the face and their bodies riddled with bullets by the troops of the 31st IB.

Being unarmed and unable to put up any form of resistance, Ka Greg, Ka Nel and Ka Gary should have been arrested and detained as prisoners of war in accordance with provisions of the Geneva Conventions governing protagonists rendered hors de combat. They were, instead, mercilessly massacred by the soldiers of the 31st IB.

The CPP seeks an independent investigation of the July 4 Juban massacre. It calls on the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) tasked to oversee the implementation of the CARHRIHL to conduct a fact-finding effort in cases of violations of human rights and brutality. The CPP appeals to human rights groups, church groups, independent lawyers’ groups and pertinent agencies of the United Nations to undertake their own investigation into this massacre.

The CPP and all revolutionary forces vow to exact justice and punish the perpetrators of this massacre. It calls on all units of the NPA to carry out more tactical offensives to defend the people, particularly the peasant masses in Sorsogon and the Bicol region, who are being subjected to more severe violations of human rights as the AFP intensifies its Oplan Bayanihan war of suppression.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20130706_cpp-salutes-fallen-bicol-revolutionaries-denounces-july-4-juban-massacre