Slain students in Batangas clashes were on ‘immersion’ program, says AFP

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 1): Slain students in Batangas clashes were on ‘immersion’ program, says AFP


Guns and bags with personal belongings that were retrieved from the scene of battle between communist rebels and government troops in Nasugbu, Batangas, are inspected by Chief Supt. Ma O Aplasca, Calabarzon police chief, and Senior Supt. Alden Delvo, provincial police chief. Fifteen suspected rebels, including UP Manila student Josephine Anne Lapira, were killed during the clash. (Photo MARRAH ERIKA RABE / Inquirer Southern Luzon)

A University of the Philippines (UP) student and other youngsters who were among the 15 suspected New People’s Army (NPA) members killed at Nasugbu town in Batangas province on Tuesday were on an “immersion” program, according to a top military official.

Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno, commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, said the program, or “tour of duty” (TOD), was meant to prepare fresh recruits for the rigors of living dangerous lives.

“TOD, normally in groups, aims to strengthen the belief of the would-be recruit that he or she is joining a just group and that they have noble purposes,” Parayno said in a phone interview.

“Our theory is they were [supposed] to conduct an offensive. They were ‘dressed to kill,’” he said.

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

He said a TOD member from UP “means she or he is being groomed to be a leader or cadre of the group.”

UP and PUP

Among those killed in what the military said were gun battles between government forces and the NPA was Josephine Anne Lapira, 22, a former biochemistry student at UP Manila.

Also killed was Kamil Manangan, a former Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) student and spokesperson for Gabriela Youth, the women’s group Gabriela said.

Authorities had yet to release the official list of those slain as of Thursday afternoon.

The military said Glen Mark Aytona, 22, of Balayan, Batangas, and Carl Espinosa Labajata, 32, of Lemery, also in Batangas, were among those killed.
Sources identified two other fatalities—Julieto Pellazar Jr. and a certain Dondon from Antipolo City, Rizal.

 Lone survivor

The lone survivor is Victoriano Almario, 47, whose home is just about 20 meters from the encounter site in the village of Aga.

Almario was taken to Medical Center Western Batangas in Balayan but was later moved to Batangas Regional Hospital in Batangas City. He is being guarded by policemen who denied the Inquirer’s request to talk to his relatives on the phone.

“He is an NPA,” Parayno said of Almario, who was under hospital arrest.

He said Almario drove the jeepney that ferried the rebels up to a police-military checkpoint in Aga.

Five people in the jeep died while nine others in a van were killed in the second clash in Barangay Kaylaway, about 2 kilometers away.

Chief Insp. Rogelio Pineda, Nasugbu police chief, said Almario would be charged with illegal possession of explosives and attempted murder.

Arnold Evangelista of the Batangas Integrated Human Rights Advocates said Almario, quoting relatives and neighbors, was “just a jeepney driver” hired by the group.

Just a driver?

Nasugbu Mayor Antonio Barcelon confirmed that Almario was a jeepney driver and that the vehicle was owned by a family from Barangay Banilad.

“[But] he would always be seen driving the jeep hired by protesters during rallies. If anything, he could be a ‘supporter,’” Barcelon said.

Families of those killed were still awaiting the release of the remains of their loved ones. As of Thursday afternoon, only Lapira’s remains had been released, according to Evangelista.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/948982/slain-students-in-batangas-clashes-were-on-immersion-program-says-afp

Pakistan national arrested for links with Daesh

From The Gulf Today (Dec 1): Pakistan national arrested for links with Daesh

Police and anti-narcotics agents reported the arrest of a Pakistani national allegedly with connections to Daesh-linked terrorists in General Santos City in restive Mindanao for illegal drugs.

Police identified the suspect as Shahzad Khan alias Salman, 25, who was arrested with his wife, a Filipina, during a raid on their house in General Santos City where they confiscated sachets of shabu or methamphetamine hydrochloride worth about $2,000.

Police confirmed that Khan was a member of the El Patron drug group that continued to operate in General Santos City and neighboring areas despite the intensified war on drugs by the government.

But Gil Cesario Castro, the regional head of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), revealed that Khan was also allegedly linked to local terrorists who had pledged allegiance to the Daesh extremists in the Middle East.

In particular, Castro said that based on reliable information, Khan allegedly supported the Maute Group that laid siege to Marawi City on May 23, prompting President Rodrigo “Rody’ Duterte to impose martial law over the whole of troubled Mindanao. In a related but separate development, Jovenal Azurin, the PDEA chief in the Autonomouos Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) reported the arrest of an alleged member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during a “sting” operation in the town of Pigcawasyan, North Cotabato.

Azurin said Mohammad Tuankali Macalimpas was arrested along with another suspect during a “sting operation” that lead to the confiscation of about $5,000 worth of shabu.

http://www.gulftoday.ae/portal/4846d56c-2a6d-44ea-b146-77c4c7422acf.aspx

DWDD: TROOP VISIT | CSAFP at Headquarters PA

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 1): TROOP VISIT  |  CSAFP at Headquarters PA

PA GRANDSTAND, Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City (DWDD) – The Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Rey Leonardo B Guerero AFP visited the Philippine Army at Fort Andres Bonifacio in Taguig City on November 28, 2017.
   

He was received by the Philippine Army Commanding General Lt Gen Rolando Joselito D Bauista and other PA senior leaders.

The Command rendered honors to CSAFP followed by Talk to the Troops with the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees of the Philippine Army at the HPA Grandstand. OACPA/MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/12/01/troop-visit-csafp-at-headquarters-pa/

DWDD: GIFT GIVING | PAFCEA pays Tribute to Marawi Heroes

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 1): GIFT GIVING | PAFCEA pays Tribute to Marawi Heroes



AFP MEDICAL CENTER, V Luna Road, Quezon City (DWDD) – More than 200 wounded soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who had fought during the five-month long Marawi City crisis benefitted from the gift-giving activity organized by the Philippine Air Force Civilian Employees Association on November 28, 2017 at V-Luna Medical Center, Quezon City.

These soldiers, who are currently confined, are continuously receiving medical treatment in the said hospital.

Unlike the previous years wherein PAFCEA members from different Air Force bases nationwide gather to celebrate its anniversary, this year, the organization’s officers and members opted to bring joy to the country’s modern heroes.

As the PAFCEA President, Doctor Felicitas DJ Rada, felt honored to be with some of the brave people who were behind the liberation of Marawi City from the terrorists. As a daughter herself of a soldier, she acknowledged the sacrifices and heroism of the government troops.

In return, Colonel Antonio Punzalan MC (GSC) PA, Chief of VLMC, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the organization’s initiative to hold a simple yet sincere gift-giving activity for the Marawi heroes.

Apart from distributing gifts, the soldiers were also entertained by some performances from the PAF civilian talents and were also amused by the special appearance of The Voice Season 2 winner, Jason Dy, who rendered a song number.

As the soldiers recuperate, the men and women of the PAFCEA hope and pray that more and more Filipinos will continue to support them and share a little of their blessings. PAFCEA/MCAG




http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/12/01/gift-giving-pafcea-pays-tribute-to-marawi-heroes/

DWDD: TROOP VISIT | CSAFP at Headquarters PN

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 1): TROOP VISIT  |  CSAFP at Headquarters PN

NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Roxas Blvd., Manila (DWDD) – The Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Rey Leonardo B Guerero AFP visited the Philippine Navy on November 29, 2017.

He was received by the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado AFP and other PN senior leaders.

The Command rendered honors to CSAFP followed by Talk to the Troops with the officers, enlisted personnel and civilian employees of the Philippine Navy aboard Headquarters Philippine Navy. NPAO/MCAG









http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/12/01/troop-visit-csafp-at-headquartetrs-pn/

DWDD: TROOP VISIT | CSAFP at Headquarters PAF

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 1): TROOP VISIT  |  CSAFP at Headquarters PAF 

COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Rey Leonardo B Guerrero AFP, visited the men and women of the Philippine Air Force on November 28, 2017 at the PAF Multi-Purpose Gym, Col Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

Foyer honors was given to General Guerrero upon his arrival at the HPAF Quadrangle with the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, Lt Gen Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr. AFP. PIO PAF / MCAG / Photos by: MSg Bruna and A1C Yupangco













http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/12/01/troop-visit-csafp-at-headquarters-paf/

MILF: Pass BBL first before shifting to Federal System: Former CJ Davide

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 29): Pass BBL first before shifting to Federal System: Former CJ Davide



Former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. described as a “lethal experiment” and a “leap into hell” the apparent rush by Congress to amend the 1987 Constitution to pave the way for a shift in the form of government from unitary to federal, Philippine Daily Inquirer said in its online report on November 22.
“I assert that the shift to federalism or amendments to our Constitution to accomplish the goals and objectives of the proponents of federalism is totally unnecessary,” Davide told business executives at Manila Polo Club in Makati.

The reasons cited to support the move were “deceptively misleading”, Davide said as quoted by PDI.

Davide said that instead of rushing up the shift to federal type of government, the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law be passed first as it contained elements of a federal type of government for Muslim Mindanao.

If the system succeeds in Muslim Mindanao, then the federalization of the rest of the country could follow, he said.

Davide echoed other sectors, legal experts and political pundits’ criticisms of efforts to change the form of government, said the PDI in its report.

“A shift to federalism is a lethal experiment, a fatal leap, a plunge to death, a leap to hell,” the former Chief Justice also said.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1099/pass-bbl-first-before-shifting-to-federal-system--former-cj-davide

MILF: Duterte to seek special session on BBL, House Majority Leader says ‘no need’

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 30): Duterte to seek special session on BBL, House Majority Leader says ‘no need’



President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday (Nov 27) said he will ask Congress to hold special session on BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law) for its speedy passage, however House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas replied on Tuesday saying there is no need for a special session as the Lower House targets to pass the bill by March next year.
       
The BBL is the legislative measure that seeks to establish an autonomous Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“I’d like to address myself to the nation this time. I plead to all Filipinos listening now to understand the problem (on Bangsamoro),” the President said during the Bangsamoro Assembly on Monday held at the Old Capitol in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao where more than a million Moro people attended.

The country’s chief executive related the historical injustice committed against the Bangsamoro people way back during intrusion of Spaniards until the coming of imperialism that “created a monster by giving away the lands and adopting, I said, ‘yung mga homestead, ‘yung mga cadastral land. And sadly to the exclusion of many.”

“And most of them, who were left behind or left out were really the Lumads here and most of the Moro people,” he explained.

Duterte further related, “But the fight for the territory began. And the dream of the Moro people was just to retake what they were or they had at that time. Violence after violence after violence.”

The President described the Bangsamoro issue as the one of the hardest in his administration and he enjoined Filipino people to understand the Bangsamoro problem.

In solving the Bangsamoro problem, Duterte disclosed there are drafts coming from MNLF Founding Chairman Nur Misuari, the academe and everybody else and said the process ‘should be inclusive’ and nothing is left behind.

Duterte said what is important is that the state will be able to deliver an arrangement acceptable to the Moro people.

“I will work very hard for it. I will ask Congress to a special session just to hear you talk about this in Congress,” the President said which draw applause from the audience which came from across Mindanao and the island provinces.

In a report by Philippine News Agency, Fariñas said, “We will request the President na siguro hindi na kailangan ng special session (that maybe there's no need for a special session). We will try to finish it before we adjourn on March 21."

He related that the BBL is now being handled by local government, peace and reconciliation, and Muslim affairs committees of the House.

Moro leaders present during the assembly pitched their call for the speedy passage of the BBL as it will address the historical injustice committed against the Bangsamoro people, provide a governance acceptable to them and will also address the emerging violent extremism which pose a big threat to national security.

The passage of the BBL will materialize the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, a peace deal signed by the MILF and the Philippine government in 2014 after more than 17 years of peace talks.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1100/duterte-to-seek-special-session-on-bbl--house-majority-leader-says----no-need---

MILF: After 40 Years, MNLF and MILF Together Again

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 1): After 40 Years, MNLF and MILF Together Again



IN PHOTO- (fr. left to right)- Datu Muslimen Sema, Chair of the MNLF Bangsamoro Peoples’ Assembly, Yusoph Jikiri, Chairman, MNLF Council of 20, MILF Chair Al Haj Muard Ebrahim, and MILF 1st Vice Chairman, and also Chair of the BTC Ghazali Jaafar

The recent Bangsamoro Assembly held on November 26-27, 2017 at Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao where at least more than a million people from all walks of life attended was an extraordinary occasion for the Bangsamoro people.

Aside from the very strong and popular support showed by the Bangsamoro masses for passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), it also proves that the BBL can unify the two major Moro Fronts, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“It was good and very welcome development for us”, said Abdulbasit Benito, the Executive Director of the Regional Reconciliation and Unification Commission (RRUC) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

One clear proof why the BBL has become a real unifying factor for the MNLF, and the MILF was the presence of prominent leaders of the two big Moro groups in the assembly, sitting side by side from the start of the program in the morning of November 27 up to its culmination in the afternoon.

Datu Mus Sema also participated in the press conference early evening on that day joining Chairman Al haj Murad, MILF PIP Chair Mohagher Iqbal, BTC Chair Jaafar, and GPH PIP Chair Nabil Tan, said Benito, who is also a peace advocate.

Although Prof. Nur Misuari, Chair of the MNLF was not there, some of his supporters including his former lieutenants were seen in the assembly to show their support and solidarity with the Bangsamoro.

In retrospect, it was in 1976, when Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi brokered a peace negotiation between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, and Misuari which led to the signing of the 1976 GRP-MNLF Tripoli Agreement where the MNLF accepted the Philippine Government's offer of semi-autonomy for Mindanao Region.

In late 1977, the late Hashim Salamat and 57 MNLF officers broke away from MNLF. The group was initially known as "The New Leadership". After which Salamat moved the new organization first to Cairo, Egypt and then, in 1980, to Lahore, Pakistan, where it engaged in diplomatic activities. In 1983, the group of Salamat adopted Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) as its official name. It took place in Camp Abubakar As-Sidddique.

In January 1987, the MNLF accepted the Philippine Government's offer of semi-autonomy for Muslim Mindanao leading to the establishment of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao on 6 November 1990.

The MILF, however, refused to accept the autonomy. A general cessation of hostilities was signed in Manila in July 1997 between the GRP, and the MILF but was voided in 2000 by the Philippine Armed Forces during the administration of President Joseph Estrada who declared all-out war against the MILF.

Major encounters were fought in Mindanao between the military, and MILF Forces resulting to a big number of casualties on both sides.

Under President Gloria Arroyo, the government entered into a cease-fire agreement with the MILF, and resumed peace talks, but in 2003, she also declared all-out war against the MILF, and bombed Boliok Peace Complex.

On October 2015, MILF and the MNLF signed a “unified declaration” calling for the approval of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as an embodiment of each other’s separate peace pacts with Malacañang.

The two groups who warned for a rejection of a “diluted BBL,” was witnessed by representatives from civil society organizations, and officials of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team (IMT).

In his speech during the Assembly, Sema stressed the need for the two fronts to converge. “There are uncertainties in our collective pursuit. Nonetheless, the general atmosphere in our homeland demands that we must be decisive and take a firm united stand taking into consideration the consequences of a failed implementation”, Sema said.

“ Thus, the need to converge becomes more imperative and as far as the MNLF is concerned, agreeing to converge in the BBL is the most logical action to be taken instead of pursuing a line that is no longer parallel but totally opposite to the position of the MILF” he added.

In a separate interview by Luwaran.com Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque, said that President Duterte’s proposal for a special session by Congress is a clear indication that the president is true to his promise, and sincere in restoring peace in Mindanao by rectifying historical injustices against the Bangsamoro people.

Although President Duterte did mention the BBL in his half an hour speech, he emphasized the inclusivity of the process, and mentioned about the one day, one session with the Moro Fronts in the Congress, and this is what exactly happening at the moment, Benito added.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1101/after-40-years--mnlf-and-milf-together-again

NDF/NDF-NEMR: PP 360 sa rehimeng US-Duterte, Samot nga nagtukmod sa kusganong pagsukol sa katawhan batok sa hilabihang pasistang pagpanumpo ug kabangis

NDF-Northeast Mindanao Region propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Nov 29): PP 360 sa rehimeng US-Duterte, Samot nga nagtukmod sa kusganong pagsukol sa katawhan batok sa hilabihang pasistang pagpanumpo ug kabangis

Press statement
November 29, 2017


Photo: Philstar.com

Alang sa NDFP-NEMR usa ka hinungog nga lakang ug angay ipanghimaraut sa katawhan ang pagpagawas sa Rehimeng US –Duterte sa Presidential Proclamation (PP) 360 niadtong Nobyembre 23, 2017. Tungod kay kini nga proklamasyon makiusa ka bahin nga pagtapos sa Rehimeng US-Duterte sa hinabing pangkalinaw tali GRP ug NDFP, ug pagdeklarang “terorista” sa mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa ug organisasyon nga gilangkuban sa PKP-BHB-NDFP. Gimando niini nga deklarasyon ang todong pag-atake ug pagpanumpo sa mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa ug gilakip bisan ang mga lehitimo nga mga demokratikong pwersa ug organisasyon.

Timailhan kini sa hingpit nga pagkawalay interes sa rehimeng US-Duterte sa pagsulbad sa mga gamot hinungdan sa nagpadayong gubat-sibil sa Pilipinas aron kab-uton ang makatarunganon ug malahutayong kalinaw. Walay pagkonsidera si Duterte sa positibong naabot sa mga serye sa panaghisgot ilabina sa mahinungdanong hisgutanan sa katilingbanon ug ekonomikanhong reporma. Usa kini ka lakang sa pagsabotahe sa rehimen sa panaghisgot pangkalinaw.

Tataw nga ang pagkansela sa rehimeng US-Duterte sa panaghisgot pangkalinaw ug pagdeklarang terorista ang PKP-BHB-NDFP timaan sa iyang pagka-itoy ug matinud-anong nagasubay sa dikta ug interes sa mga imperyalista ilabina sa Estados Unidos (US). Mitukma usab kini sa iyang pamaagi sa pagpadayon sa pasistang pagdumala sa katawhang Pilipino ug pagpatuman sa iyang pangandoy sa pagtukod og usa ka diktadurang rehimen aron makapabilin sa gahum. Kay kun magpadayon ang hinabing pangkalinaw subling mabutyag sa katawhan ug sa tibuok kalibutan ang pagkadili seryoso sa rehimen sa pagtuman sa CARHRIHL ug uban pang mga napirmahang kasabutan tali sa GRP ug NDFP.

Lain pa, babag alang sa mga imperyalista, dagkung burgesyang kumprador ug agalong yutaan ang seryosong pagpadayon sa panaghisgot ilabina kay dakung hulga sa ilang interes ang sunod nga hisgutanan kalambigit sa katilingbanon ug ekonomikanhong reporma. Dinhi nga agenda maghisgot na kabahin sa reporma sa yuta, nasudnong soberanya, nasudnong industriyalisasyon, katilingbanong kaayuhan ug uban pa nga maoy gipanghingusog sa nagkalain-laing hut-ong ug sektor sa katawhang Pilipino.

Aron hingpit nga mapatuman ni Duterte ang interes sa mga imperyalista ug lokal nga mga nagharing hut-ong partikular sa pagmina, plantasyon, pagpatuman sa gastosong imprastraktura ug pagtukod sa base militar sa US dinhi, pugsanon niining gipahamtang ang martial law sa Mindanao ug pasistang kabangis sa tibuok nasud. Apan, human sa iyang deklarasyon nga “nalingkawas na ang Marawi” nahutdan na og pasumangil ang rehimeng US-Duterte alang sa katarungan sa pagpadayon sa martial law, pasistang pagpanumpo ug paghari. Gigamit niini karon nga rason ang pakanang pagdeklara nga “terorista” ang PKP-BHB-NDFP. Base usab kini sa damgo sa rehimen nga puohon ang BHB sa tuig 2018. Ug matukod sa rehimeng US-Duterte ang pantalyang “rebolusyonaryong gobyerno” aron hanoy nga mausab niini ang 1987 nga Batakang Balaod sa Pilipinas para hingpit na nga mouyon sa tinguha sa imperyalista, sa nagharing pundok ug sa iyang diktadura.

Angay natong sabton nga ang mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa nga gipangulohan sa Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas maoy nag-una ug kusganong pwersa nga nagaduso sa nasudnon ug demokratikong pangandoy sa katawhang Pilipino ug pursigidong nagabatok sa anti-nasudnon, anti-demokratiko ug anti-katawhan nga mga palisiya sa rehimeng US-Duterte. Gawas pa kini sa nagakusog nga pagsupak sa katawhan ug sa mga demokrtikong pwersa ug bisan sa mga politikal nga oposisyon batok sa pasista ug diktadurang ambisyon ni Duterte. Nahulga na pag-ayo si Duterte nga mapalagpot sa poder. Mao nga nag-unang lakang usab sa reaksyonaryong rehimen nga targeton ug gukuron ang tanang rebolusyonaryong pwersa ug tanang mga nagasupak kaniya.

Gihimong pad-anan ni Duterte ang sunod-sunod nga mga taktikal nga opensiba (TO) nga gilunsad sa BHB batok sa AFP/PNP labina niining bulan sa Nobyembre ug atol sa ASEAN Summit aron ilhon nga ”terorista” ang BHB ug mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa. Partikular sa BHB-NEMR, nakalunsad kini og 27 ka mga aksyong militar sulod lang sa tunga sa bulan sa Nobyembre nga nakapahiagom sa kaaway ug ubay-ubay nga mga kaswalti ug nakasakmit ang BHB og 8 ka armas ug nakabihag og 2 ka membro sa PNP nga gitratar isip POW.

Tukma lang nga gilunsad sa BHB-NEMR ang sunod-sunod ug kaylap nga TO agi’g pagpanalipod ug kontra-atake sa walay puas nga pasista ug teroristang pagpanulong sa AFP/PNP batok sa katawhan ug rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa rehiyon. Sa pikas bahin, wala pay namugnang kasabutan sa hunong-buto tali sa BHB ug AFP busa padayon ang armadong panagsangka samtang naghisgot sa kalinaw aron sulbaron kini.

Bisan nagpadayon ang mga panagsangka, matinud-anong gipakita sa mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa ang kaakuhan sa pagkab-ot sa kalinaw pinaagi sa seryosong panaghisgot. Gani nakatakda nang buhian ang 2 ka POW sa Surigao del Norte isip maayong kabubut-on alang sa pagpadayon sa panaghisgot pangkalinaw. Apan, tungod kay pasista ug militarista ang rehimeng US-Duterte, wala niini gitagad ang kaayuhan sa mga POW, hangyo sa pamilya ug sa katawhang nagpakabana sa kalinaw alang sa luwas nga pagrelis.

Ang rehimeng US-Duterte ug ang AFP/PNP mismo ang nabantog na sa pagmugna og kabangis ngadto sa katawhan, maoy tinuod nga terorista. Libuan na ka tawo ang gipangpatay ug gipangdakop sa mga ahente ug personahe sa AFP ug PNP sulod lang sa panahon ni Duterte. Gatusan ka libo na ang biktima sa pinugos nga pagpamakwit gumikan sa mapadayonong operasyong militar ug sa iyang kontra –teroristang pakana nga gera sa Marawi.

Sulod niining bulan sa Nobyembre ug human sa deklarasyon sa PP 360, duha na ka kaso sa politikal nga pagpamatay ug usa ka kaso pagpang-istraping sa mga mag-uuma ang natala nga binuhatan sa mga ahente sa AFP dinhi sa NEMR. Mokabat na sa dili moubos sa 7 ka kaso sa politikal nga pagpamatay dinhi sa rehiyon sukad milingkod ang rehimeng US-Duterte. Wala pay labot karon ang mga kaso sa pagpanggukod ug pagpandakop sa mga aktibista ug mga lider sa kahugpungan sa katawhan. Ug bag-ohay pa lang, ang kaso sa dinaghang pagbakwit sa libuan ka mga Lumad ug pagbungkag sa ilang eskwelahan bunga sa todo-todo nga gera sa AFP pinaagi sa dinagkung operisyong militar batok sa BHB ug sa katawhan sa Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte ug Surigao del Norte.

Ang pagmobilisa karon sa dinagkung pwersa sa pasistang AFP/PNP ug paggamit sa tanang kahimanang militar apil ang modernong kagamitan (drones, ubp) alang sa iyang todo-todo nga gera batok sa katawhan ug sa BHB, seguradong magbunga og kaylap ug mas daghang pagpanglapas sa tawhanong katungod. Apan, susama sa nahitabo panahon ni Marcos ug ubang rehimen momugna kini og madilaabong pagsukol armado man o dili aron tapuson ang pasistang paghari.

Walay laing epektibong hinagiban ang katawhan aron malingkawas batok niining naghingaping pagpahimulos ug kabangis sa mga imperyalista ug sa rehimeng US-Duterte gawas sa hiniusang pagsukol ug subayon ang dalan sa nasudnon-demokratikong rebolusyon pinaagi sa gubat sa katawhan. Lig-ong maghiusa ug ilunsad ang tanang porma sa pakigbisog aron mapanalipdan ang tawhanong katungod ug mapanghingusog ang makihut-ong ug sektoral nga interes batok sa teroristang pagpangatake sa rehimeng US-Duterte ug kab-uton ang tinuod nga kalinaw.

Kaylap ug sunson nga ilunsad sa BHB –NEMR ang gerilyang pakiggubat sa tibuok rehiyon aron pabayron ang mga pasista sa ilang utang nga dugo sa katawhan. Ang daghan ug kaylap nato nga malampusong mga taktikal nga opensiba maghatag og kadasig ug kalagsik sa katawhan alang sa militanteng pagsukol aron mapalagpot ang pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte.

Mabuhi ang katawhang nakigbisog!

Ka Maria Malaya
Tigpamaba
NDFP-NEMR

https://www.ndfp.org/pp-360-sa-rehimeng-us-duterte-samot-nga-nagtukmod-sa-kusganong-pagsukol-sa-katawhan-batok-sa-hilabihang-pasistang-pagpanumpo-ug-kabangis/

CPP/NDF-ST: Pagpupugay sa mga Rebolusyonaryong Martir sa Nasugbu, Batangas

NDF-Southern Tagalog propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 1): Pagpupugay sa mga Rebolusyonaryong Martir sa Nasugbu, Batangas

Pagbayarin ang rehimeng US-Duterte sa kanyang mga krimen sa mamamayan!

Patnubay de Guia, Spokesperson
NDFP Southern Tagalog

1 December 2017
Press Release

Nagpupugay ang buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan sa Timog Katagalugan sa labinlimang Pulang kumander at mandirigma ng BHB na pinaslang ng pasistang AFP sa Nasugbu, Batangas noong Nobyembre 28, 2017. Habambuhay na dadakilain ng mamamayang inaapi at pinagsasamantalahan ang inialay nilang talino, galing at kakayahan alang-alang sa pagsusulong ng demokratikong interes ng sambayanan.

Taos-puso ding nakikiramay ang National Democratic Front- Southern Tagalog sa mga pamilya, kaibigan at kasama ng lahat ng mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma na nag-alay ng kanilang natatanging buhay para sa pagsusulong ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan Walang kaparis na pighati ang nararamdaman ngayon ng mamamayan sa maagang pagpanaw ng mga mahal na kasama.

Kaisa ng kanilang mga pamilya at kaibigan ang lahat ng rebolusyonaryong mamamayan ng Timog Katagalugan sa pagdadalamhati. Mananatiling nakaukit sa gunita ng bawat kasama at masang kanilang nakasalamuha ang kanilang mga alaala. Ang kanilang inialay na buhay na kasimbigat ng kabundukan ng Sierra Madre ay magsisilbing inspirasyon sa lahat ng mamamayang nakikibaka para sa tunay na demokrasya at kalayaan.

Marapat lamang na paghalawan ng aral ang kanilang mga naging buhay. Tiyak na ang kanilang mga rebolusyonaryong simulain at adhikain ay tatagos sa bawat uring kanilang pinagmulan upang pukawin ang mamamayang kumilos para sa pagtatagumpay ng rebolusyon. Mapagpasya nating ibaling ang ating pagdadalamhati sa patuloy na pagpupunyagi sa ating mga rebolusyonaryong gawain at paigtingin ang ating pakikibaka laban sa rehimeng US-Duterte.

Ang pinakamahusay na paraan ng pagbibigay parangal at pagpupugay sa mga martir ay ang pagpapatuloy ng kanilang nasimulan, ang mahigpit na pagtangan sa mga armas na kanilang nabitawan at ang higit pang pagpupunyagi sa pagsusulong ng digmang bayan pangunahin sa pamamagitan ng armadong pakikibaka. Dapat na ibaling ng mamamayan ang kanilang poot at galit sa kasalukuyang pasistang rehimen na siyang salarin sa pagpaslang ng mga Pulang mandirigma.

Ang mga utang na dugo ng rehimen ang siya ring dugong dumidilig sa matabang lupa ng rebolusyon. Tiyak na libu-libong mamamayan ang mapupukaw upang tahakin ang rebolusyonaryong landas tulad ng ating mga bayani. Ang mamamayang nagpupuyos sa galit ang siyang sisingil sa rehimeng US-Duterte para sa lahat ng krimen nito sa sambayanang Pilipino.

Pansamantalang kabiguan lamang para sa lahat ng rebolusyonaryo ang naging kamatayan ng mga Pulang mandirigma sa kamay ng pasistang kaaway. Hindi magtatagal, muling tataglayin ng rebolusyonaryong mamamayan ng Batangas ang ibayong lakas upang tanganan ang mga sandatang nabitiwan ng mga kasamang namartir sa Nasugbu.

Hangga’t nananatiling malakolonyal at malapyudal ang lipunang Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng papet na rehimeng US-Duterte, kikilos ang daang libong mamamayan upang patuloy na ipaglaban at igiit ang kanilang mga demokratikong karapatan. Ang sumasahol na panlipunang krisis at ligalig ang siyang pangunahing matutulak sa mamamayan upang isulong ang tunay na panlipunang pagbabagong tanging sa pagrerebolusyon lamang makakamit.

Mabuhay ang lahat ng bayani ng rebolusyong Pilipino!
Mabuhay ang New People’s Army!
Paigtingin ang digmang bayan laban sa pasista at diktador na rehimeng US-Duterte!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171201-pagpupugay-sa-mga-rebolusyonaryong-martir-sa-nasugbu-batangas

AFP locating communist consultants

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 1): AFP locating communist consultants

THE Armed Forces yesterday said it is locating the 21 consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, who were freed by the Duterte administration so they can participate in peace negotiations between government and the communist group.

President Duterte formally terminated the peace negotiations last week because of what he said was the communists’ lack of sincerity and commitment to the peace process. Following the termination, he asked the consultants to surrender or “face punitive actions.” Duterte said the consultants should “go back to where you belong,” referring to jail.

AFP public affairs chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said the military has yet to get specific orders from higher authorities to arrest the consultants but is now determining their whereabouts in preparation for the arrest.

Among the consultants are Benito Tiamzon, chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines, and his wife, CPP secretary general Wilma Austria.

Tiamzon and Austria were arrested by military intelligence operatives in 2014 in Cebu for various crimes. The two and 19 other NDF consultants were freed last year so they can participate in the peace talks.

“As of now, we have no information on their location but we are awaiting specific guidance if we should arrest them, based on order from our courts,” Arevalo told a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo.

Arevalo said Proclamation 360 on the termination of the talks should be “enough signal for them (communists) to take heed or take cue that the formal talks are already over.”

“We are going to await further instruction about this (arrest of the consultants) but we are already monitoring them,” said Arevalo.

“Monitoring is different from arrest. We have to monitor them so that we’re already aware of their whereabouts when there is already an instruction, specific order to arrest them. We have to be proactive in our actions,” said Arevalo.

Asked if the Tiamzons and the other NDF consultants are in the country, Arevalo said: “I cannot answer that question right now but what I am sure about is we have efforts to locate them.”

Four rounds of formal talks were held in Norway and Rome. A fifth round was supposed to be held also in Norway before Duterte suspended the talks in July because of, among others, continued attacks by the New People’s Army, the CPP’s armed wing, on government forces.

The military has stepped up its campaign against the NPA which Duterte is planning to declare a terrorist organization.
 

FOCUS

Arevalo said the military would take more actions against the NPA, similar to that in Nasugbu, Batangas last Tuesday, where 14 NPA members were killed in clashes with government forces.

The Nasugbu incident is the biggest feat so far since President Duterte issued Proclamation 360 on Thursday last week.

“We are going to be relentless in our intensified campaign against the terrorist New People’s Army, especially so that our combat operations in Marawi are now over,” Arevalo said.

He was referring to the attack by the Maute Group in Marawi City. The conflict that started on May 23 lasted five months.
 

SISON’S PROPAGANDA

Brig. Gen. Marcelo Burgos, commander of the Army’s 202nd Brigade, accused communist party founder Jose Maria Sison of resorting to propaganda and mis-information to undermine the military success in Nasugbu.

The Netherlands-based Sison earlier insinuated that those killed in the fighting were civilians and not NPA members.

Burgos said Sison’s statement is aimed at “salvaging their eroding mass base support and projecting relevance in the region.”

Burgos maintained that the fatalities, including UP student Josephine Anne Lapira, are all NPA members. Four other female rebels died in the fighting.

“They are all armed. They are all NPAs. And they are there to conduct tactical offensive. They’re wearing bandoliers and they have arms. How can you explain the number of firearms they were carrying?” said Burgos.

Burgos said the rebels were planning to attack a police detachment in Nasugbu.

Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno acknowledged that Lapira is a UP student but stressed she is an NPA member. “Her status in the NPA is full-timer, meaning that she is really an NPA (rebel),” said Parayno.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/afp-locating-communist-consultants

Acceptance procedure for upcoming frigates’ components ongoing

From Update Philippines (Dec 1): Acceptance procedure for upcoming frigates’ components ongoing



Technical inspection and acceptance procedures for components that will be installed on the Philippines’ first two missile-firing frigates are now being finalized.

This was bared by Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong on Wednesday when asked on the progress of the modernization project worth PHP18 billion.

“The Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) is proceeding as scheduled and we are now finalizing the Technical Inspection and Acceptance procedures for the many components that will comprise the two frigates,” he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

This stage includes possible selection of weapons, propulsion and sensor systems on the two frigates.

“We expect the concerned parties to submit the checklists, which are required in the Technical Inspection process, not later than December 1, 2017,” Andolong said.

On Oct. 24, 2016, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana formally inked the contract for the FAP, together with officials and delegates from South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) at the PN’s headquarters in Naval Station Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

The project involves the construction and delivery of two missile-firing frigates to the PN.

As background, the Notice of Award was approved, issued and was duly conformed by HHI on Sept. 13, 2016 with the amount of USD336,912,000 or PHP15,744,571,584.

An additional PHP2 billion was allocated for the acquisition of assorted weapon systems and munitions.

 https://www.update.ph/2017/12/acceptance-procedure-for-upcoming-frigates-components-ongoing/23027

Philippines officially chooses Super Tucano for counterinsurgency

From Update Philippines (Dec 1): Philippines officially chooses Super Tucano for counterinsurgency

 

The Philippines has officially and finally chosen the A-29 Super Tucano to replace/complement the Philippine Air Force’s Rockwell OV-10 “Bronco” turboprop attack planes in close-air support missions specially in counterinsurgency. This acquisition is part of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization First Horizon.

Brazilian manufacturer of Super Tucano, Embraer announced on November 30 the said order for six units of light attack and advanced training aircraft.

Deliveries are slated to start in 2019. Once delivered, these aircraft will be operated under PAF 15th Strike Wing (15SW). 15SW is the operator of PAF’s SF260TP Light Attack Aircraft, AW-109E amred helicopters, MD520 MG Defender armed helicopters, and OV-10 Broncos.

Embraer said A-29 Super Tucano is a durable, versatile and powerful turboprop aircraft capable of carrying out a wide range of missions, even operating from unimproved runways.

“We are honored to be selected by the Philippine Air Force, our second operator in the Asia-Pacific region, and with the confidence expressed by our customer,” said Embraer Defense & Security President and CEO Jackson Schneider.

“The Super Tucano is the best light attack aircraft in the market and we are confident that it will accomplish with excellence the missions it was selected for,” he added.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/philippines-officially-chooses-super-tucano-for-counterinsurgency/23029

Brazilian firm bags DND’s P4.9-B attack aircraft project

From Update Philippines (Dec 1): Brazilian firm bags DND’s P4.9-B attack aircraft project



The Department of National Defense (DND) has selected Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer Defense and Security as the supplier of its six brand-new close air support aircraft (CASA) which has a contract of PHP4,968,000,000.

This was confirmed by DND public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong who said the company will be supplying its turboprop A-29 “Super Tucano” light attack aircraft.

He added that the notice to proceed has been issued sometime this week.

“Yes. A Notice to Proceed for the supply and delivery of six close air support aircraft has been transmitted to and received by Embraer Defense and Security,” Andolong said when sought for confirmation on whether the contract was indeed bagged by Embraer.

“The aircraft that was selected after a rigorous public bidding process that was participated in by several manufacturers from different countries was the Super Tucano A-29, which is compliant with the stringent technical specifications required by the PAF (Philippine Air Force),” he added.

Andolong said the contract is now being crafted for signing by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

The six brand-new CASA, once delivery commenced on 2019, is expected to augment or even replace the eight to 10 ageing Rockwell OV-10 “Bronco” attack planes being used by the PAF in close-air support missions.

Funds will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act Trust Fund.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/brazilian-firm-bags-dnds-p4-9-b-attack-aircraft-project/23034

Indian offshore patrol vessel arrives in Manila

From Update Philippines (Dec 1): Indian offshore patrol vessel arrives in Manila

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessel Shurya arrived today at Pier 15 in Manila to participate in bilateral exercise with Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), PCG said.

Shurya is the fifth in the series of six 105-meter Samarth-class offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) Flight I of the ICG. She was commissioned in August 2017.


PCG photo


PCG photo

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/indian-offshore-patrol-vessel-arrives-in-manila/23039

Urgent need to fund AFP modernization raised in Senate

From Update Philippines (Dec 1): Urgent need to fund AFP modernization raised in Senate

The urgency on funding the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was voiced out in Senate by Senator Dick Gordon during the deliberation on the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN).

Senator Gordon proposed a 15 percent allocation from the TRAIN collection with Senate approving 13 percent.

“This is something that we in Congress must pay attention to, every year, so we could really have some form of measure of protection for our country. In spite of the BCDA (Bases Conversion and Development Act) Law, after 25 years there is no improvement in the military. There doesn’t seem to be any urgency on this matter. We have arguments with big nations around us,” he said.

He said the country must not rely on other nations for its security and defense.

“This is something that we in Congress must pay attention to every year so we could really have some measure of protection for our country. We cannot just rely on the donation of other country (such as M-16 from China, AK47 from Russia) Kailangan ipakita natin na tayo ay titindig at maglalagay tayo ng pera,” he said.

“We should really put in honest to goodness revenue-raising for the military. Every country that I know of – from America to Japan to every country in Europe, they have always put together something for their military,” he noted.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/urgent-need-to-fund-afp-modernization-raised-in-senate/23055

PH to charge widow of slain militant for recruiting fighters to join Marawi siege

From Rappler (Dec 1): PH to charge widow of slain militant for recruiting fighters to join Marawi siege

Prosecutors say Karen Hamidon, widow of the late founder of Ansarul Khilafa Philippines, used messaging apps Telegram and WhatsApp to promote IS activities

CHARGED. Karen Aizha Hamidon is presented during a press conference at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Manila on October 18, 2017. Authorities arrested Hamidon who allegedly used the Internet and social media to recruit followers around the world for Islamist "terrorist acts," government lawmen said. Photo by Noel Celis/AFP

The widow of a slain Islamist militant leader will be charged for allegedly using social media to recruit Islamic State sympathizers to join a five-month siege of a southern city, Philippine authorities said Friday, December 1.

Hundreds of local and foreign gunmen who had pledged allegiance to IS rampaged through Marawi, the principal Islamic city in the mainly Catholic Philippines, starting in May – sparking the nation's longest urban war that claimed more than 1,100 lives.

Karen Hamidon faces charges of inciting to rebellion for allegedly urging IS followers to travel to Marawi to fight troops in the nation's first case of terrorism committed through online networks, senior state prosecutor Peter Ong said.

"(Hamidon) wilfully, unlawfully and feloniously incite(d) others to rise publicly and take arms against the Philippine Government," Ong said in a copy of the charge sheet seen by AFP which he said was set to be filed before a local court this month.

Government investigators conducting undercover work and a forensic examination had accused Hamidon of using messaging apps Telegram and WhatsApp, where they said she was "prolific in her recruitment and promotion activities for ISIS," another name for IS.

"The Islamic State invites you to join in the Philippines. We note that the door to immigration is open to the cities of Marawi and (the southern region of) Mindanao," state investigators quoted Hamidon as saying in a Telegram post.

Hamidon had denied the allegations, telling reporters last month she was an Islamic missionary who had used social media for religious purposes.

Hamidon was arrested in a Manila suburb in October and has since been detained in the capital.

She was married to Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, founder and leader of Ansarul Khilafa Philippines (AKP), a pro-IS militant group in the restive south which authorities said helped plot a bombing in the city of Davao that killed 15 people last year.

Troops said they had killed Maguid in January this year.

The military said militants loyal to IS, including those allied with AKP, had attacked Marawi in a bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate there.

Hamidon is also accused of recruiting Indians to join IS and the Indian government had asked the Philippines for help in investigating that case, according to a justice department resolution.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/190102-philippines-to-charge-widow-of-militant

Philippine envoy to U.S. presents credentials to Trump

From Rappler (Dec 1): Philippine envoy to U.S. presents credentials to Trump

Philippine Ambassador to the US Babe Romualdez and President Donald Trump speak for about 10 minutes at the White House, the envoy's office says

PRESENTING CREDENTIALS. Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel 'Babe' Romualdez presents his credentials to US President Donald Trump on November 29, 2017. Photo courtesy of Romualdez's office

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez presented his credentials to President Donald Trump, Romualdez's office said Friday, December 1.

"US President Donald J. Trump warmly welcomed Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez during the latter's presentation of credentials at the White House last November 29," a statement from Romualdez's office said.

"President Trump and Ambassador Romualdez had a very cordial conversation that lasted for 10 minutes, with the US President expressing once again his support for President Rodrigo Duterte and the Philippines," the statement added.

Romualdez, 70, is a Philippine Star columnist who started as a television newscaster for RPN-9 in the 1970s.

 

He continues to write his Star column, "Babe's Eye View," from the US. His latest column, titled "US Drug War," was published on November 26.

In Romualdez's confirmation hearing on August 23, Senator Panfilo Lacson pointed out that US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim himself also welcomes the appointment.

 

With Romualdez, Lacson said, "We guarantee strong diplomatic engagement with the United States."

Romualdez replaces former Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr, who ended his tour of duty in June 2016.

 

https://www.rappler.com/nation/190099-philippines-ambassador-united-states-credentials-donald-trump