Saturday, June 29, 2019

Analyst: ‘There’s reason to believe’ Sulu blasts were suicide attacks by IS

From ABS-CBN (Jun 29, 2019): Analyst: ‘There’s reason to believe’ Sulu blasts were suicide attacks by IS




Provincial director Paul Labra walks with police personnel on the way to the blast site to conduct a post-blast investigation at the temporary Camp of 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) in Barangay Kajatian, Indanan town, Sulu, on Friday, June 28. Nickee Butlangan, Reuters

MANILA—A security analyst on Saturday said the bombings in Indanan town, Sulu, which left 8 people dead and 12 others wounded, were suicide attacks.

8 killed, 12 wounded in Sulu blast

Rommel Banlaoi, president of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, said he believes the Islamic State (IS) group was behind the blasts.

"I take the word of ISIS for claiming the incident as a suicide attack, because they claimed responsibility for the Marawi City siege, which turned out to be true," he told ANC.

"As far as the track record of claiming responsibility are concerned then the ISIS may have knowledge on this incident. I have reason to believe that it was a suicide attack."

Military officials earlier said the Abu Sayyaf group, an Islamic State-linked terrorist organization, could be behind the blasts, which occurred near a military camp in Barangay Kajatian, Indanan.

Banlaoi warned of ISIS' rising support in the country, citing followings in Mindanao and Luzon.

3 'ISIS supporters' arestado sa Parañaque, Rizal

"It is true that the strength of ISIS is weakening in the middle east particularly in Syria, Iraq but it is not disappearing," he said.

"In fact, just a few weeks ago a group claiming to be followers of Islamic State has pledged allegiance to ISIS again and the the film was done in the Philippines."

Banlaoi added that the Philippines has become "an alternative base for Jihad."

"Particularly from the Middle East and most particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia are being encouraged to come to the Philippines in order to mount violent incidents in southern Philippines," he said.

"And most problematic problem is that some followers are willing to accommodate them when they come to the Philippines."

Banlaoi, meanwhile, assured that government is "exerting its best efforts" to prevent the IS to mount big attacks.

"I'm very very privy to the efforts of our government, particularly coordinating with friendly countries who are willing to share info with us and willing to build our capacity," he said.

"I think what the government should do is to double up its efforts so they will not be outsmarted by the terror groups."

The government earlier said the Abu Sayyaf could be behind the (attack).

"Authorities are eyeing the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) behind this dastardly attack," Malacañang said.

Military units in Western Mindanao have been placed on red alert, while Metro Manila police also raised a full alert status as a "proactive" following the incident.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/06/29/19/analyst-theres-reason-to-believe-sulu-blasts-were-suicide-attacks-by-is

4 NPA rebels held; explosives seized

From the Philippine Star (Jun 30, 2019): 4 NPA rebels held; explosives seized

Four suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were arrested in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental on Friday.

Troopers of the 11th Infantry Battalion Alpha Company led by Cpl. Benjamin Descotido spotted the rebels in Sitio Maraja, Barangay Lamogong.

Authorities said the NPA guerrillas identified as Rea, Teodor and Danny, all surnamed Casido, and Venancio Cadeliña yielded two hand grenades, two rifle grenades, various types of ammunition, a binocular, a cellular phone charger, batteries and subversive documents.

The arrest came amid pursuit operations for around 20 NPA rebels whom the soldiers encountered in Barangay Bantulinao on Sunday.

Five landmines and two rifle grenades among other war materiel were among those recovered at the scene. A rebel was killed in the clash. 

CORDS convenes to address peace, dev’t priorities in N. Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 30, 2019): CORDS convenes to address peace, dev’t priorities in N. Mindanao


PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar presides over the Joint Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting in Region 10 at Malaybalay, Bukidnon on Friday (June 28, 2019). Andanar, Cabinet representative for Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Region 10, called on the participants to remain steadfast in pushing forward the peace and development priorities of Northern Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)
Northern Mindanao have come up with several strategies to strengthen partnership and collaboration in implementing programs and projects that support the region's peace and development agenda.

This as Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar presided over the Joint Region 10 Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting on Friday (June 28) following the launching of the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev) here.

Andanar, who is the Cabinet representative for Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Region 10, called on the participants to map-out the activities that need to be conducted in the succeeding months to move the peace and development agenda forward.


"For the second half of this year, groundworks are well underway in achieving the goals of EO (Execuive Order) 70. In fact, this joint meeting shall apprise us on what have been done so far in terms of cascading EO 70 down to the local level," Andanar said in a speech as he opened the meeting.


CAPDev put into operation President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s EO 70, which established the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). The program espouses a focused, coordinated, and sustained delivery of the government’s basic services as well as social development packages in poor, conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in the region.

During the meeting, Andanar endorsed the proposal on the structure for the institutional and implementing mechanism of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC).

“Let us remain steadfast in pushing forward the peace and development priorities of Northern Mindanao. I would like to thank our development partners who relentlessly plan for, push and implement programs and projects to improve the living conditions of each Filipino in the region," Andanar said.


He thanked the RDC and RPOC for the unwavering support despite the short timelines to work on.

"Together, we can build a truly safe, secure, and progressive communities," Andanar said.

"Since the issuance of EO 70 in December of last year, we continue to work together on how best this can be operationalized. For Region X, you relentlessly pursued our initiatives, particularly CAPDev," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073663

Gov’t provides more incentives to lure rebels

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 28, 2019): Gov’t provides more incentives to lure rebels

ALABEL, SARANGANI – The government has lured former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to surrender with livelihood and cash assistance.



New People’s Army (MANILA BULLETIN)

1Lt. Gerry Maborrang, civil military operations officer of Army’s 73th Infantry Battalion, said the provincial government of Sarangani has released P50,000 to at least eight NPA rebels who surrendered and turned in their firearms last year.

He said the surrenderers were members of NPA Guerilla Front 71 operating in Sarangani and Davao Occidental.

He said the former rebels, most of whom are B’laan tribesmen from Malapatan town, will also receive livelihood assistance, scholarship and housing benefits under the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

Sarangani Gov. Steve Solon said the provincial government had established a halfway house for former rebels where they can stay as they prepare for their assimilation with the mainstream society.

Solon said more than 200 NPA rebels in Sarangani and Davao Occidental have yielded since 2014.

In Davao Occidental, Gov. Claude Bautista dangled an assistance package ranging from P100,000 to P1 million to communist insurgents who lay down their arms.

Maborrang said six former rebels were given P65,00 each by the provincial government of Davao Occidental during the oath taking ceremony Friday of the newly-elected provincial officials at the provincial capitol in Malita, Davao Occidental.

Soldiers now qualified for hazard pay for duty in Sulu

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 28, 2019): Soldiers now qualified for hazard pay for duty in Sulu



Members of the Marine Battalion Landing-8 attend a send-off ceremony for their tour-of-duty in Sulu province. PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE MARINES

Soldiers deployed to Sulu, one of the most conflict-ridden areas in the country, would now start getting hazard pay on top of their salaries.

Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr., armed forces vice chief of staff, told reporters on Friday (June 28) that soldiers on duty in Sulu province would receive hazard pay equivalent to half of their base pay.

Collado said the extra pay was made possible by the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Duterte about the need to include Sulu on the list of areas considered hazardous for soldiers.

Duterte’s pledge to provide hazard pay for soldiers in Sulu took effect in May.

Sulu is a known stronghold of the homegrown terror group Abu Sayyaf and other armed groups associated with kidnappings, bombings, and extortion. The military has created a new division-sized military unit to address security problems in the predominantly Muslim province.

On Friday (June 28), the Philippine Navy held a ceremony for the Sulu-bound Marine Battalion Landing Team-8 which recently completed nine months of retraining.

The battalion was previously deployed to Sta. Ana, Cagayan province before the retraining. It will replace the MBLT-3, which was moved to Palawan.

Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, Navy chief, said the MBLT-8 “is now fresh, more powerful and with refurbished capabilities.”

“They are ready to fight again,” Empedrad said.

Maj. Gen. Alvin Parreno, Marine commandant, told his Sulu-bound men to be “culturally sensitive and respect local customs, traditions and norms” in their new tour-of-duty.

“Always speak peace and development,” he added.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1135298/soldiers-now-qualified-for-hazard-pay-for-duty-in-sulu

‘Sports diplomacy’ vital in advancing internal peace, security

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 28, 2019): ‘Sports diplomacy’ vital in advancing internal peace, security



SPORTS DIPLOMACY. Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana (center) poses for a photo with the members of the diplomatic corpsat the DND – Ambassadors – FAFA Fellowship Golf, a form of ‘sports diplomacy’ to strengthen camaraderie between the defense officials and the diplomatic community. (Photo courtesy: DND Public Affairs Service)

Officials of the Department of National Defense (DND) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and members of the diplomatic corps gathered for a golf event at the Camp Emilio Aguinaldo Golf Course last June 26.

Hosted by Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, the DND-Ambassadors-Foreign Armed Forces Attaches (FAFA) Fellowship Golf was instrumental in enhancing interstate cooperation, particularly in soliciting the support of the international diplomatic community in addressing the foreign activities of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) through International Solidarity Works (ISW), which was presented during the event’s security briefing.


The golf “sports diplomacy”, which carried the theme “Following Through a Strengthened Alliance with Sports Diplomacy”, was attended by DND and AFP officials, ambassadors, charge d’affaires, and members of FAFA from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam.

“I hope that by playing golf today, we were able to achieve our goals, which I have compressed into four F’s – fitness, friendship, fellowship and, last but not least, fun,” Lorenzana said.

The activity was organized by the DND to direct peace and security efforts in strengthening camaraderie among stakeholders.

“Spending time leisurely, playing sports, getting to know people with similar interests, making friends and expanding our networks outside the confines of our respective workplaces (are) wonderful way(s) of spreading goodwill, promoting trust and building confidence, which are imperative in order to carry out our duty of ensuring the peace, security and stability,” the defense chief added.

Meanwhile, the event also included a security briefing on the overview of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) conduct of ISW as one of the CTG’s overseas legal struggles, which was presented by the AFP Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence.

The AFP Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade, previously reported that CTGs have been garnering resources from the ISW’s development programs and projects in the country unwittingly provided by the European Union.

Because of the transnational scope of the CTG’s activities, the “sports diplomacy” is relevant in advancing collaborative efforts with external alliances in ensuring peace and security.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1073555

Foreign diplomats get security briefing on communist insurgency

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 28, 2019): Foreign diplomats get security briefing on communist insurgency



PHOTO from Department of National Defense

The military conducted on Wednesday a security briefing for foreign diplomats, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Friday.

The briefing, presented by the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence at Camp Aguinaldo, focused on communist insurgency and the situation in Mindanao.

The military previously alleged that certain “fronts” of Communist Party of the Philippines posing as non-governmental organizations are getting financial assistance from the European Union and the Belgian Foreign Ministry.

READ: EU to hold funds for Philippine NGOs with link to Reds

READ: Belgium probes NGOs’ links to CPP, NPA

The briefing was conducted on the sidelines of a golf event for ambassadors, charge d’affaires, and Foreign Armed Forces Attaches (FAFA) from Australia, Brunei, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam.

Lorenzana hosted the activity as part of its sports diplomacy initiative.

“Spending time leisurely, playing sports, getting to know people with similar interests, making friends and expanding our networks outside the confines of our respective workplaces are wonderful ways of spreading goodwill, promoting trust and building confidence which are imperative in order to carry out our duty of ensuring the peace, security and stability,” Lorenzana said.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1135310/foreign-diplomats-get-security-briefing-on-communist-insurgency

UAE, Philippines to strengthen defence cooperation

From the Khaleej Times (Abu Dhabi) (Jun 28, 2019): UAE, Philippines to strengthen defence cooperation



UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs Mohammed bin Ahmad Al Bowardi hands over a token to Ambassador Hjayceelyn M. Quintana  (Supplied Photo)

Both countries discussed ways on how to enhance bilateral relations, particularly defense cooperation.

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Hjayceelyn M. Quintana recently met Mohammed bin Ahmad Al Bowardi, UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs, to discuss ways on how to enhance bilateral relations between the Philippines and the UAE, particularly defense cooperation.

They also exchanged views on regional and international developments. Ambassador Quintana was accompanied by a visiting delegation from the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Death toll in Sulu twin bombings in southern Philippines reaches 8

From Xinhua (Jun 29, 2019): Death toll in Sulu twin bombings in southern Philippines reaches 8

The death toll in Friday's twin blasts inside a military camp in Sulu province in southern Philippines has reached eight, a military official said on Saturday.

Major Arvin Encinas, the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command, told local radio that among the eight killed, three were soldiers, three were civilians, and two were the bombers. Another twelve were injured in the blasts.

The Islamic State has assumed the responsibility of the attack but the claim can not be verified and investigation is still underway.

Encinas said the first bomber attempted to detonate the explosives taped on his body near the gate, killing the three soldiers manning the gate. Another bomber attempted to slip into the gate and blew himself up, injuring 12 other soldiers.

Army Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala blamed the attack on Abu Sayyaf gunmen who are notorious for carrying out kidnappings-for-ransom, bombings, ambushes of security personnel in Mindanao in southern Philippines.

"This attack is meant to disrupt the intensified security operations tempo following a series of recent operational gains in the area," Zagala said, "We vow to respond with formidable resolve."

The Abu Sayyaf Group, estimated to have 400 members, operates in the waters off the west coast of Mindanao island in southern Philippines, mainly in the provinces of the Sulu Archipelago.

Marines pulled out from Palawan for retraining

Posted to the Daily Express (Jun 29, 2019): Marines pulled out from Palawan for retraining


A battalion of Marines, deployed in Palawan to secure the country’s western frontier including the Kalayaan Islands in the disputed Spratlys, has been recalled to Manila to undergo retraining and refurbishing programme.

Capt. Felix Serapio Jr., Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) spokesman, said elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-12 (MBLT-12) of the 3rd Marine Brigade are already on their way to Manila aboard the Philippine Navy’s strategic sealift vessel BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) for retraining at Marine headquarters in Taguig City.

The Sulu-based MBLT 3, which was recently replaced by MBLT 8 in operations against the Abu Sayyaf bandits in the island province, would be redeployed to Palawan to replace the Manila-bound MBLT 12.

The 3rd Marine Brigade has been deployed in Palawan as one of the key units of the Puerto Princesa-based Western Command (AFP-Wescom), the guardian of the country’s western frontier that includes the Filipino-occupied Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the Spratlys island chain in the West Philippine Sea.

Aside from threats of terrorism coming from communist rebels and Muslim extremists, the Marines in Palawan are being deployed on rotation basis to guard and secure the nine military outposts within the KIG.

“A send-off ceremony will be accorded to MBLT 8 at 9 a.m. today. Likewise a welcome ceremony will be accorded also to the MBLT 12 upon its arrival at Pier 13, South Harbor,” Serapio said.

He said while in Manila, elements of the MBLT 12 would undergo a series of training that will focus on honing each soldier’s individual skills as well as equipment upgrade.

The role of PMC in securing the country’s maritime and territorial domain in the West Philippine Sea was highlighted in 2014 when China’s coast guard vessels blockaded Ayungin Shoal.

The Chinese blockade was aimed at isolating and starving a contingent of Marine soldiers then led by 1Lt. Mike Pelotera deployed in the area on board a grounded and rusty but still commissioned Philippine Navy landing ship tank BRP Sierra Madre.

Photo Source: philstar.com

CPP/Ang Bayan: 8 killings in 7 days

Propaganda article from the English language edition of the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Jun 21, 2019): 8 killings in 7 days

In just a week, eight activists and peasants were killed by armed state elements. Civilians were also subjected to various incidents of harassment and intimidation across the country.

Two staff members of Karapatan-Sorsogon were shot-dead in the morning of June 14. Ryan Hubilla and Nelly Bagasala, 69, were aboard a tricycle when they were fired upon by two assailants at Phase 2, Seabreeze Homes Subdivision, Barangay Cabid-an, Sorsogon City.

Bagasala served as a human rights defender for several decades. She was subjected to relentless vilification and Red-tagging by the military. Hubilla and Bagasala were also subjected to surveillance and harassment in the past months.

On the next day, Nephtali Morada, former campaign officer of Bayan-Bicol was gunned down in Barangay San Isidro, Naga City.

In San Fernando, Masbate, farmers Arnie Espinilla and Sando Alcovindaz were successively killed on June 9 and 10 in Barangay Liong and Buenavista, respectively. They were killed by the group of Sgt. Chalas, official of the Peace and Development Team of the 2nd IB operating in the barrios of Talisay, Altavista, Buenavista, Canelas, Del Rosario and Progreso. The victims were tagged as members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

On June 14 in the evening, soldiers trooped to the residence of Pizo Cabug and then gunned him down. Cabug was a member of the Masbate People’s Organization.

Amid successive killings of human rights defenders in Bicol and other parts of the country, around 6,000 individuals protested in Naga City. The mobilization was dubbed “Kilos Bikolano laban sa Tiraniya” (Bicolanos Fight Against Tyranny). Karapatan members also protested in front of the Department of National Defense headquarters in Quezon City on June 17.

In Bukidnon, state elements gunned down Nonoy Palma in front of his house at Sitio Malambago, Barangay Halapitan, San Fernando, on June 16. Palma was a member of KASAMA, provincial chapter of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas. One of the three assailats was identified as a member of the Alamara paramilitary group.

Meanwhile, Felipe Dacaldacal, member of the National Federation of Sugar Workers was gunned down in the evening of June 9 at Sitio Dita, Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental.

Killing of a person hors de combat

Edwin “Ka Dupax” Dematera, commander of NPA-Sorsogon was killed hors de combat by the 31st IB on June 12. He was gunned down after being beaten up outside his house in Barangay Incarizan, Magallanes, Sorsogon. Dematera was temporarily confined in the area due to a swollen foot.

After killing Dematera, the soldiers ransacked his house and seized the belongings of his relatives’ visitors. Jemuel Non Saturay was also illegally arrested and brought to Camp Escudero in Sorsogon City. He was accused of being a member of the NPA and was made to appear to be in possession of a .38 caliber pistol.

The 31st IB is led by Lt. Col. Randy N. Espino and is based in Barangay Rangas, Juban, Sorsogon. The battalion was deployed in Camarines Norte in the 1990s. They were transferred to Sorsogon in 2011 and are still operating in the province at present.

Bloody record

Ang Bayan reports indicate that the 31st IB has perpetrated 18 killings since 2014. The battalion is also notorious for illegal arrests, theft, and illegal search of civilian residences. The battalion also perpetrated a number of hors de combat killings.

Among its starkest crimes is the indiscriminate strafing of the Garduque residence on May 2014 in Matnog, Sorsogon. Couple Elias and Cynthia were accused as members of the NPA.

Elias was killed during the incident, while his wife and one-year old baby were wounded. The soldiers left the mother and baby to bleed for nine hours and prevented villagefolk from rescuing them.

The butcher battalion is also responsible for the killing of Teodoro “Tay Tudoy” Escanilla, 63, spokes­person of Karapatan-Sorsogon, in August 2015. He was gunned down in his house in Barangay Tagdon, Barcelona sa Sorsogon.

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

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/21/8-killings-in-7-days/

CPP/Ang Bayan: 2nd IB: Butchers of Masbate and Albay

Propaganda article from the English language edition of the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Jun 21, 2019): 2nd IB: Butchers of Masbate and Albay

Around 1,000 residents from eight barangays in Cawayan, Masbate protested in front of the municipal hall last June 3-8. They condemned the intense militarization of their communities and demanded the pull out of 2nd IB troopers who have been occupying these since May 20.

Kilusang Magbubukid ng Masbate (KMM) said that the human rights violations perpetrated by the 2nd IB, including the destruction of people’s livelihoods, are escalating.

Last May 22, elements of the 2nd IB forcibly entered the residences of and mauled KMM members. They also robbed KMM member Rosemarie Erero’s P12,000-savings, and illegally arrested her brother Nilo Erero Jr. Farmers Danilo Landao, Arnel Punay, Jovanie Impas, Bobby Baybayon, Ondo Rondina, Tong-tong Pianar, Titing Delos Reyes, Ondoy Pianar and Boy-boy Sare were also abducted and were subjected to forced labor.

Aside from this, 11 farmers were coerced to serve as guides in military operations. Former barangay council member Danilo Cunel was threatened to be killed and Barangay Dalipe residents were prohibited from going in and out of their village.

These cases add to the long list of the 2nd IB’s crimes against the Bicolanos. From atrocious killings to banditry, this butcher battalion wreaked terror in Masbate and Albay in the last 13 years. The battalion is currently under the command of Lt. Col. John Oliver F. Gabun and is based in Barangay Bacolod, Milagros, Masbate.

Murderers

Since 2010, the 2nd IB perpetrated at least 41 killings of civilians and six cases of frustated killing. Most of their victims were accused of being members or supporters of the revolutionary movement. Twenty of the killings were carried out in Masbate within the last three years.

One of the starkest crimes by the 2nd IB in Masbate was the killing of two children and their grandmother in April 2017. Soldiers under the command of Lt. Karlito John Cabillo indiscriminately fired at the residence of the victims in Ba­ran­gay Panan-awan, Cawayan. Lita Villamor Pepito, 70, and siblings Reden and Rechillen Luna, 9 and 11 years old, were killed during the incident. Pepito’s husband Paoling was also wounded.

In June 2018, from August 26-September 7, the butchers killed seven civilians. Five of the victims were residents of neighboring villages in the towns of San Jacinto, San Fernando and Monreal. Some houses were also torched by the soldiers. Atrocious killings were also perpetated by the 2nd IB in Albay when it was stationed in the province from 2006-2016. Two of its victims were decapitated, one was burned and another’s neck was slashed. Two massacres were perpetrated by the 2nd IB in the province.

Attackers of children

Children and the youth are not spared from the various crimes of the butcher battalion. Aside from the Luna siblings, two other youth fell prey to the 2nd IB’s strafing in Pioduran, Albay in April 2012. One was killed while another was wounded after they were fired upon by the soldiers. The two were on their way to a village dance.

In the 2nd IB’s massacre of the Lotino family in Daraga, Albay in October 2010, one of the victims was a minor. Three young children survived the attack while another suffered severe trauma.

In barangays occupied by the 2nd IB, children are used as human shields. In Guinobatan, Albay, cases wherein minors are used by soldiers as guides in their operations were reported.

Bandits

In Barangay San Jose, Uson, Masbate, soldiers repeatedly stole domestic animals, belongings and cash of the villagers in September 2017 and August 2018.

In Barangay Talisay in San Fernando, Masbate, the soldiers robbed the villagers thrice in May 2018. Lt. Col. Gabun himself spearheaded the crime. The officer forcibly rounded up the villagers, while his men ransacked their properties. Among the belongings seized by the 2nd IB were eight fishing boats and nets, rice, dozens of domestic animals, five generator sets and farm equipment. A day earlier, four motorcycles were also seized by the soldiers. Two incidents of theft by the 2nd IB, affecting 35 victims, were recorded

Even when it was still deployed in Albay, the 2nd IB was already notorious for banditry. Its detachments were known for spearheading criminal activities including holdup incidents. Recruits in the Barangay Intelligence Network accompany soldiers in heists which primarily target middle forces accused of supporting the revolutionary movement. A rape case was also committed by the 2nd IB’s thieves.

Unrest in communities

In barangays occupied by the 2nd IB, residents are coerced to construct huts for the military, post guard and conduct reconnaissance. Cases of threat and harassment against suspected members or supporters of the revolutionary movement are pre­valent.

From 2010-2015, 2nd IB “peace and development” operations occupied and terrorized barangays in the second and third district of Albay. In Masbate, its crimes against the people are most intense in the first and second districts.

The 2nd IB also perpetrated the illegal arrest and detention of 39 civilians, torture and physical injuries of five, and harassment of eight others.

The 2nd IB was previously deployed in Bicol in 1986, and then transferred to different provinces within the region. After undergoing “retraining” in 2006, the battalion’s atrocities escalated when it was transferred from Sorsogon to Albay. Here, the 2nd IB carried out the brutal campaigns Oplan Bantay Laya 1 and 2, up to Oplan Bayanihan. The butchers were then transferred to Masbate in 2016 and carried on with their crimes there.

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

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/21/2nd-ib-butchers-of-masbate-and-albay/

CPP/Ang Bayan: CPP welcomes call for UNHRC investigation

Propaganda article from the English language edition of the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Jun 21, 2019): CPP welcomes call for UNHRC investigation

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) welcomed the call of the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) to conduct an investigation into the worsening human rights situation in the country under the Duterte regime.

Aside from widespread killings, state security forces also perpetrated various cases of illegal arrests, filing of trumped-up charges, legal harassment, threats, armed raids of communities, hamletting and occupation of rural villages, food and economic blockade, and so.

It stated that the investigation must subject to critical inquiry both Duterte’s drug war, as well as his counterinsurgency directive “to end local communist armed conflict” and its various components including Mindanao martial law, Memorandum Order 30, Oplan Kapayapaan, Oplan Sauron and Oplan Kapanatagan. These grave crimes must indeed be investigated, exposed and condemned. The Filipino people’s clamor for justice must be made known across the world, concluded the CPP.

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

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/21/cpp-welcomes-call-for-unhrc-investigation/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA-Samar confiscates 4 firearms

Propaganda article from the English language edition of the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Jun 21, 2019): NPA-Samar confiscates 4 firearms

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Northern Samar confiscated four firearms during its successful against a detachment of the Alpha Company, 63rd IB at Sitio Little Lanubi, Barangay Lanubi (EJ Dulay), Lao-ang, Northern Samar on May 21, 4 a.m. The NPA blasted and fired shots at the detachment. Three R4 rifles, a pistol, magazines, ammunition and other military equipment were seized during the raid. Three soldiers, including two officials, were killed during the 30-minute encounter. Meanwhile, the NPA paid tribute to Ka Yulo who was martyred during the offensive.

The 63rd IB was among the battalions that besieged Marawi. When the battalion was redeployed in Northern Samar, it troopers served as security forces of private contractors delivering road projects in the area.

After the offensive, the military shelled the barangay and threatened residents.

Quezon. On June 13, a unit of the NPA-Quezon ambushed more than 30 elements of the 85th IB who were patrolling at Sitio Tanauan in Barangay Villa Nacaob, Lopez, Quezon. Two soldiers were killed in action.

The patrolling unit is part of the pursuit operation of the 85th against a unit of the NPA that attacked their troops on June 11 at Sitio Bunga in the same barangay. Combat operations of the said battalion in the area started on June 7. Three towns in Quezon were ravaged, and 16 barangays were occupied by more than 200 troops of the AFP-PNP-CAFGU.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippinesand is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/21/npa-samar-confiscates-4-firearms/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Ubos-lakas na manindigan at makibaka para wakasan ang pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte!

NPA-Central Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 28, 2019): Ubos-lakas na manindigan at makibaka para wakasan ang pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte!

JB REGALADO
NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS (LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND)
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
JUNE 28, 2019

Ubos-lakas na manindigan at lumaban sa pasistang pang-aatake sa mga sibilyan sa paglabag ng karapatang pantao sa pamamagitan ng panghaharas ng mga mamamayan, panggigipit, pang-aaresto sa mga gawa-gawang mga kaso at pamamaslang ng mga berdugong pwersa na AFP at PNP sa ilalim sa dikta ng papet na rehimeng US-Duterte.

Sa pagpapatupad ng hindi makataong MO#32, napasailalim ang isla ng Negros sa de facto Martial Law . Nalagay na sa peligro ang buhay at seguridad sa pamumuhay ng mamamayang Negrosanon dahil sa marahas nga kalakasan ng kinikilalang “tagaprotekta at naglilingkod sa sambayanan” na mga AFP at PNP.

Napapahayag ng lubos na pagkondena ang Leonardo Panaligan Command- New People’s Army sa mga kalakasan ng mga uhaw sa dugo at mayayabang na mga tropa ng 94th IBPA, 62nd IBPA at ng iba pang mga mersenaryong elemento sang reaksyonaryong estado sa sakop ng Central Negros sa pagpatay sa 1 inosenteng sibilyan na si Lito Itao ng Brgy. Buenavista, Guihulngan City, na pinaslang kahapon lamang ng hapon (Hunyo 27, 2019). Isang awditor si Itao ng Guihulngan City Habal-habal United Operators and Drivers Association (GHOUDA-PISTON), magsasaka at namumunong brgy. Tanod sa kaniyang nasakupan na baranggay. Gayundin sa paghuli sa mga inosenteng sibilyan at mga ordinaryong magsasaka na sina Arnel Namu at Francisco Alagban at kaniyang asawa noong nagdaang mga araw, sa isang magkahiwalay na pangyayari noong Hunyo 25-26, alas 12:00 sang hating gabi. Sila ang iilan sa datos ng naging biktima sa nagawang ekstra-hudisyal na pamamaslang, payurak sa karapatang pantao ng sang rehimeng US-Duterte sa buong bansa.

Mahigpit din na pagkondena ng LPC-NPA sa nagpapatuloy na militarisasyon sa kabundukang sakop ng Guihulngan City sa Oriental na bahagi. La Castellana, Isabela, at Moises Padilla sa Occidental na parte.

Gayundin, kinokondena rin ang paggiit at pag-aakusa nina Mayor-elect Ella Garcia-Yulo at Vice Mayor-elect Ian Villafor na sila ang utak ng serye ng pamamaslang sa Bayan ng Moises Padilla sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) ng NPA. Purong kasinungalingsn lamang ito at ang NPA nagpapatupad ng Hustisya ayon sa prinsipyo at masusing imbestigayon base sa bigat ng kaso na nagawa laban sa mamamayang pinagsasamantalahan. Sa katunayan, iniipit lamang ng isang despotiko at utak-pulbura na si Magdaleno “Magsie” Peña, dating alkalde ng nasabing bayan ang mga naging testigo nito sa ganitong kalakasan ngña sina Junjun Opiar na kagawad ng Brgy. Macagahay, sakop sng nasabing Bayan at ni Roberto Sualog. Hindi makatanggap ng pagkatalo si Magsie Peña sa nagdaang eleksyon at gusto niyang ipaiwan ang poder upang dominahin ang Bayan ng Moises Padilla.

Ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)ay isang hukbo ng sambayanan at inaalagaan ang kapakanan ng malawak na mamamayan laban sa pananamantala at pang-aapi ng naghaharing uri sa lipunan—uring Panginoong Malua, Malalaking Burgesya Komprador at Imperyalista. Layunin na mapaglingkuran ang sambayanan nañng walang anumang kapalit at maisulong ito hanggang sa tagumpay sa ilalim ng absolutong pamumuno ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas- Marxismo-Leninismo- Maoismo (PKP-MLM). Hindi nagpapagamit sa naghaharing uri ang BHB na iyon ang pinamalaking kaibahan nito sa AFP at PNP.

Desperado lamang kag nasa sobrang krisis na ang pasistang rehimen na wasakin nag-aapoy na pakikibaka ng sambayanan. Sa kabila ng kanilang pangdarahas, laganap
na militarisasyon sa kanayunan, patuloy pa rin na lumalakas ang suporta ng mamamayan sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan, laluna na nagpamulat na ipasulong pa sa mataas na antad ang kanilang paglaban sa pagkamit ng hustisya.

Sa kabila nito, huwag matakot na igiit ang mga karapatang pantao. Singilin ang mga berdugo na AFP at PNP na may utang na dugo sa mamamayan. Huwag tumigil sa paglaban hanggang sa maabot ang hustisya sa mga biktima ng SEMPO 1 at 2.

Pinapanawagan din sa buong yunit ng BHB sa ilalim ng Leonardo Panaligan Command na depensahan ang kabuhayan at buhay ng mamamayan at ibigay ang karampatang hustisya sa inaaping mamamayan. Biguin at tapusin ang tiraniya at militaristang paghari ng US-Duterte na rehimen. Ibasura ang pahirap na MO #32!

Sgd: JB Regalado
Tagapagsalita
Leonardo Panaligan Command
New People’s Army
Central Negros Guerrilla Front

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/ubos-lakas-na-manindigan-at-makibaka-para-wakasan-ang-pasistang-rehimeng-us-duterte/

CPP/Sison: Resist together, wage revolution together

Jose Maria Sison propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 29, 2019): Resist together, wage revolution together

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
JOSE MARIA SISON
FOUNDING CHAIRPERSON
JUNE 29, 2019



Message to Metro Manila Pride March 2019

I wish to express my solidarity to the Filipino LGBT community and in spirit join the Metro Manila Pride March set for today in Marikina City. I congratulate the organizers for bringing together LGBTs and allies in this march for equality, and against injustice and oppression.

I congratulate you for choosing “Resist Together” as the theme for Pride March 2019. It highlights the importance of collective action in the history and achievements of the LGBT struggle. It honors the LGBT resistance started by the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, and the first Pride March in the Philippines and in Asia in 1994 spearheaded by the Metropolitan Community Church Manila (MCC Manila) and the Progressive Organization of Gays (ProGay).

This theme is also timely and appropriate inasmuch as we are confronted by a regime that is tyrannical, treasonous, patriarchal, misogynist, mass murdering, corrupt and mendacious. The foul-mouthedness of the tyrant is often spiced with misogynist and anti-gay expletives.

The history of the now-global Pride March is a history of LGBTs collectively fighting for their rights against police brutality, against discrimination, and against a rotten system that excludes, dehumanizes and demonizes LGBTQIs. I join you in honoring and carrying forward this fighting record of LGBTs.

The LGBT community is a major part of the Filipino people. LGBTs have joined and even led movements and campaigns for the advancement of greater freedom, democracy, social justice, all-round development and international solidarity for peace against imperialism and all reaction.

LGBTs have thus played a major role in the struggle for national and social liberation against the four evils of foreign monopoly capitalism, domestic feudalism, bureaucrat capitalism and patriarchy.

The Communist Party of the Philippines has accorded full civil, political, economic, cultural, and social rights to LGBTs in guerilla zones and territories of the provisional revolutionary government.

The CPP has long been affirming and welcoming all LGBTs who seek to overthrow the corrupt system that perpetuates hate, discrimination and oppression. Many LGBTs have taken up the cause of revolution and have become Red fighters and Red commanders of the New People’s Army. We admire their brilliance and bravery.

For 25 years now, the CPP rules on the relation of sexes have included a non-discrimination clause that guarantees LGBTs enjoy the right to love and be loved while in pursuit of revolutionary goals. Yes, marriage equality has long been a part of life in the revolution.

The 12-point program of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines has also included a provision for the cause of LGBTs. When the revolution wins, equal rights and non-discrimination would be part of the law of the land.

I call on national democratic organizations to keep their doors wide open to LGBTs seeking to becoming activists. I also call on national democratic organizations to come out in full support of LGBTs in promoting and defending their rights against discrimination.

The International League of Peoples Struggle, the world’s biggest anti-imperialist and pro-democracy alliance, also includes a Commission on LGBT Concerns. As chairperson emeritus of the ILPS, I cordially invite all anti-imperialist and pro-democracy LGBT organizations to join ILPS.

The worsening crisis of the ruling system under the homophobic and misogynist Duterte challenges LGBTs to political action. This is a president who claims to have been “cured” of his gayness, and uses the word “gay” as an insult. LGBTs are way more decent, more courageous, and more patriotic than Duterte.

LGBTs thus cannot rely on Duterte for the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Bill. We must depend mainly on the collective action of LGBT community and the support of the Filipino people who had been dubbed as among the “most gay-friendly” in Asia.

The LGBT community deserves the highest appreciation for having persevered in the struggle against discrimination. It is truly admirable that the number of participants in the Metro Manila Pride March have grown for the past years, especially in 2018. More towns and cities have also held their own Pride marches and parades.

I hope that Metro Manila Pride 2019 will achieve the utmost success in upholding, defending and promoting the rights of the LGBT community. Your commitment and your activism would surely earn the respect, admiration and support from allies and from the entire Filipino people.

Beyond Duterte, there’s a country to save and a world to win. The revolution is open to all and fights for all. Let us resist together today, and build a new country and a new world without exploitation tomorrow. ###

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statement/resist-together-wage-revolution-together/

CPP/NPA-Palawan: Pahayag at Panawagan sa mga Palaweño

NPA-Palawan propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 29, 2019): Pahayag at Panawagan sa mga Palaweño

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
SALVADOR LUMINOSO
NPA-PALAWAN (BIENVENIDO VALLEVER COMMAND)
JUNE 29, 2019

Alinsunod sa whole of nation strategy ng Campaign Plan “Kapanatagan” binuo ng rehimeng US-Duterte ang National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) sa ilusyong ganap na tapusin ang limang dekadang armadong tunggalian sa Pilipinas sa pagitan ng mga rebolusyonaryong grupo na kinakatawan ng CPP-NPA-NDFP laban sa mga malalaking burgesya kumprador, panginoong may-lupa, burukrata-kapitalista at alipures nitong AFP at PNP.

Ang hakbang na ito ay asal-maton na tugon ng rehimen sa sinserong alok ng NDFP na magkaroon ng seryosong usapang pangkapayapaan upang hanapan ng angkop na solusyon na lulutas sa ugat ng nagaganap na armadong tunggalian sa bansa upang makamtan ng sambayanan ang mithing kaginhawahan at tunay na hustisyang panlipunan.

Hindi inisip ni pinag-aralan ng militaristang rehimeng Duterte ang maningning na kasaysayan ng makatarungang pakikibaka ng sambayanang Pilipino na nakatungtong sa pagpawi ng pang-aapi at pagsasamantala sa lipunan—isang katotohanan na habang may pagsasamantala at pang-aapi naroon ang paglaban ng mamamayan. Sa loob ng limampung taon, buong giting na hinarap at binigo nito ang iba’t ibang mga Oplan at Task Force ng bawat nagdaang rehimen na nagmistulang inutil at isang kastilyo sa buhangin lamang.

Kasunod ng NTF-ELCAC ay ang pagtatayo naman ng mga RTF-ELCAC (Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) na ang pangunahing nagsusulong ay ang mga lokal na kumand ng AFP/PNP. Itinutulak nito ang mga LGU na magpasa ng mga resolusyong nagdideklara sa CPP-NPA bilang mga “persona non grata”.

Ang pagtutulak ng RTF-ELCAC at mga teritoryal na kumand ng AFP/PNP gayundin ng katumbas nito sa mga probinsya ay naglalayong lumikha ng ilusyon ng isang bandwagon effect para pagmistulaing nagtatamasa ng popular na suporta ang pakanang ito at nagtatagumpay ang whole of nation strategy sa ilalim ng Campaign Plan “Kapanatagan”.

Sa Palawan, ang Sangguniang Bayan ng Brooke’s Point ay nagpasa ng Resolution No. 2019-77A nuong Marso 13, 2019 na nilagdaan ni Mayor Maryjean D. Feliciano noong Marso 18, 2019 na sinundan naman ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Taytay na nagpasa rin ng kahalintulad na resolusyon na nilagdaan ni Mayor Romy L. Salvame nitong Mayo. Ang Sangguniang Bayan ng Quezon, Palawan sa ilalim ni Mayor Joselito O. Ayala ay nagpahayag na ring tutugon. Samantala, ang Palawan Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) ay nagpasa na rin ng resolusyon na nagdideklara sa CPP-NPA bilang persona non grata.

Nais naming ipaaabot sa lahat lalo na sa mga nasa lokal na pamahalaan na dapat ay pag-aralan ninyong mabuti bago kayo gumawa ng anumang hakbang katulad ng pagpapagamit sa mga reaksyonaryo at mersenaryong militar at pulis na inyong ideklara bilang mga persona non grata ang CPP-NPA dahil ang pagdedeklara nito ay kasingkahulugan na rin ng inyong tahasang paglaban at pagdedeklara ng gyera laban sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan. At kung gayun ay maaaring maglagay sa inyo sa isang peligrosong sitwasyon. Gayundin, magkakaroon ng pananagutan sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan ang lahat ng mga nasa pribadong sektor at mga negosyanteng nagtataguyod at nagsisilbing mga padrino upang linlangin ang mga dating NPA at masa na pumaloob sa pakanang pagpapasuko at ECLIP.

Alalahanin ninyo na ang rehimeng US-Duterte ay may hangganan ang kapangyarihan at pawang pansamantala lamang. Subalit ang rebolusyon ay nagpapatuloy hanggat naririyan ang mga ganid na nagpapahirap sa taumbayan.

Naniniwala kami na marami sa nasa Sangguniang Bayan at lokal na upisyal ng Brooke’s Point, Taytay at Quezon ay walang hangad na sumangkot at lumaban sa rebolusyonaryong armadong kilusan at marami sa kanila ay nabitag at nalinlang lamang ng mersenaryong tropa at panggigipit ng rehimeng Duterte. Binibigyan pa namin kayo ng puwang at pagkakataon na ituwid ang inyong pagkakamali, bawiin ang inyong lagda sa ipinasang resolusyon at iatras ang nasabing resolusyon. Dapat nyong tularan ang ginawa ng Sangguniang Lungsod ng Iloilo City na hindi bumigay sa presyur ng AFP at PNP na magpasa ito ng resolusyong nagdideklara sa CPP-NPA na persona non grata.

Ang aming panawagan sa mga LGU’s na nakapagdeklara at balak pang magdeklara na persona non grata ang CPP-NPA ay may panahon pa upang kayo’y mag-isip. Kung binabalak pa lamang ninyo ay huwag na ninyong ituloy at kung nakapagdeklara na ay pwede pa ninyong bawiin at magtuwid bago mahuli ang lahat. Inuulit namin na ang pagdedeklara bilang persona non grata sa CPP-NPA ay tuwirang pagdedeklara din ng gyera laban sa kilusan. Ang mga magpapatuloy sa landas ng kontra-rebolusyonaryong paglaban ay lilitisin at pananagutin ng hukumang bayan ng Demokratikong Gubyernong Bayan.

Mabuhay ang CPP-NPA-NDFP!

Mabuhay ang Sambayanang Lumalaban para sa Tunay na Kalayaan, Demokrasya at Makatarungang Kapayaan!

CPP: Boldly struggle to end Duterte’s tyranny!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 29, 2019): Boldly struggle to end Duterte’s tyranny!




Boldly struggle to end the scourge of Duterte’s tyrannical rule at the soonest possible time. Every moment he remains in power, the people’s burden and suffering worsen. Almost three years under his rule, people’s lives have worsened and the economy deteriorated.

Unemployment has worsened, taxes have become more burdensome and prices have soared, while people’s wages and income re- main low. The drug menace has escalated, as the government itself has morphed into the number one syndicate.

On the other hand, Duterte’s wealth of Duterte and that of his bureaucrat capitalist and oligarch cohorts continue to grow from government contracts and plundering the people’s money. He is subservient to foreign powers and surrenders the country’s sovereignty and patrimony.

Duterte is aunting his power across the country. He employs the entire armed force and state resources to subject the people to violence and deception. He silences his critics, activists, lawyers and the media. He suppresses the people’s resistance. Killings, attacks against entire communities, arrests and imprisonment are rampant.

Duterte controls the entire bureaucracy, the armed forces and government branches. To escape culpability for his crimes, he seeks to perpetuate beyond 2022 the power and privilege he enjoys with his family and accomplices.

Still, however powerful Duterte appears, he can not forever suppress the people’s aspiration to be free from tyranny and fascism. Their demand for justice and democracy will not be silenced.

It is the right of the Filipino people to resist and overthrow a government that op- presses their common interests and relentlessly suppresses them. Just as the Marcos and Estrada regimes were overthrown, there is nothing more just for the people to do than oust the brutal, corrupt, oppressive and treasonous Duterte regime.

To the Filipino people: steel your selves in the difficult struggle against the fascist regime and to correct the course of the country’s history. If the people will unite and march as one, they are an invincible political force and impetus of change.

Build the people’s organized strength. Open their eyes to the real situation of the country. Tear off the blindfold of Duterte’s lies and distortions. Persevere to unmask, understand and expose the social realities, the absence of democracy and freedom, the rule of a few oligarchs, bureaucrat capitalists and fascists, and the oppression and exploitation of the toiling masses.

Pay attention to people’s issues and questions of state. Repudiate indifference. Grapple and comprehend the roots of everyday problems and grievances. Be students of history, politics and economics.

Firmly unite. Reject self-interest. One’s well-being is linked to the welfare of all. Give everything to build and broaden mass organizations. Strengthen or establish fac- tory unions. Build and strengthen various mass organizations that unite the majority in schools, of ces and communities.

Act as one and express grievances over local, sectoral and national issues. Struggle for wage increases and workers rights, to reduce land rent and loan interests and for fair prices of palay and other products, against tuition increases and state abandonment of education, against demolitions, against unjust fees and other urgent demands. Link these with the bigger national issues and with the struggle to end Duterte’s tyrannical rule.

Mass activists must arouse, organize and mobilize hundreds of thousands of people in the cities and countryside. Be the engine of mass study and mass propaganda. Lead discussions, speak before assemblies, hand out leaflets in the streets and paint and post urgent calls on walls. Convince everyone to join mass actions and resist. Bring the Party’s message and calls to the masses.

Duterte aims to drive a wedge among the people in order that evil forces such as he and his cronies and cohorts can continue to rule. If millions are organized and will act collectively, there is no power that can stop the people from ousting Duterte, advancing change and determining the country’s destiny.

CPP: Duterte will not be impeached, but he can be kicked out by the people for so many reasons

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 28, 2019): Duterte will not be impeached, but he can be kicked out by the people for so many reasons



The tyrant Duterte cannot be impeached, not because there are not enough reasons behind it, but rather because Duterte’s minions in his rubberstamp congress will not allow it. And just to make sure they won’t even think about it, Duterte has made overt threats of throwing into jail anyone who will try to impeach him.

Indeed, the Filipino people have enough grounds to demand Duterte’s impeachment for repeated and downright violations of the 1987 constitution, especially over his failure to defend the country’s sovereign rights over its exclusive economic zone in failing to restrict China from freely fishing in the Recto Bank.

He exhibited outright national treachery when he declared that he cannot defend the Philippine constitution supposedly because China is a superpower who will just dismiss it as mere toilet paper. He is treating the Filipino people as stupid when he insists that going to war with China is the only option to defend the country’s sovereignty. He has even gone the extent of suggesting to put the Philippines under the protectorate of the US as the only alternative.

He is utterly incapable of upholding the country’s national sovereignty because one, he is in the pockets of corrupt Chinese state monopoly capitalists, and two, because he is subservient to US economic, political and military interests. He is serving the interests of either superpower to the detriment of the country’s soverignty and national dignity.

Despite his repeated violation and contempt of the 1987 constitution, Duterte will likely not be impeached by congress now dominated by his cronies and minions, especially not by the Senate now dominated by his lackeys and clowns.

Even if Duterte cannot be impeached, he can definitely be kicked out by the Filipino people. In less than three years, they have grown extremely indignant over Duterte’s national treachery, his campaign of mass murder and terrorism, corruption, unexplained wealth accumulation and oppression. They seek to end his anti-people reign at the soonest. They have all the right to overthrow the detested tyrant, lock him behind bars and make him pay for all his crimes.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/06/28/duterte-will-not-be-impeached-but-he-can-be-kicked-out-by-the-people-for-so-many-reasons/

AFP-CRS: Philippine Army's community support program: Freeing Eastern Visayas villages from Communist Terrorists

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 28, 2019): Philippine Army's community support program: Freeing Eastern Visayas villages from Communist Terrorists



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2548172835201425/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

8 dead, 12 injured as suicide bombers blow up bombs in military camp

Posted to the Mindanao Daily News (Jun 29, 2019): 8 dead, 12 injured as suicide bombers blow up bombs in military camp

INDANAN, SULU (MDN Mindanao News, June 28) - Three suicide bombers exploded bombs near a military camp in Indanan, Sulu, killing 8 persons and injuring 12 others in what could be known as another handiwork of the ruthless terror group in Mindanao.

Police authorities said no one has yet claimed responsibility on the terror attack in a military camp using the deadly and bravest suicide bombers, but hinted this is mostly perpetrated by any extremist group in Central Mindanao.

Major Gen Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said three soldiers have died, including two suspected bombers.

Major Gen Sobejana told reporters the military are still investigating the incident and they have yet to establish the motive of the sudden attack of three suicide bombers, willing to blow themselves up, in the name of their radical belief.

Investigation disclosed that on or about 1 in the afternoon of June 26, three suspicious-looking men went to a military camp in Barangay Kajatian, Indanan town in Sulu.

The suspects were flagged down at the security checkpoint and one of them was suspected of carrying a bomb in his bag, and he was escorted at the office for verification. However, before approaching the military office, a bomb inside the suspect's bag suddenly exploded. After the explosion, the second suspect also ran towards the military camp and also blow himself up, killing 3 soldiers and injuring 8 others.

In a related development, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was immediately placed under "full alert status," following the twin explosions in Indanan, Sulu.

Guillermo Eleazar, NCRPO regional director said there were no threats yet received by the police offices in NCR but they immediately placed NCR under "full alert status" at 6:00pm on Friday, so that people would be vigilant to inform the police if there are suspicious individuals entering Metro Manila.

Eleazar said in a statement “Having this measure could mean of great help in deterring unscrupulous individuals in carrying out their illegal or terroristic acts. And so I highly encourage the public to remain alert and vigilant.”

http://mindanaodailynews.com/news/front-page/todays-top-stories/8-dead-12-injured-as-suicide-bombers-blow-up-bombs-in-military-camp

86 NPA rebels, sympathizers surrender to Philippine army

Posted to the Mindanao Daily News (Jun 27, 2019): 86 NPA rebels, sympathizers surrender to Philippine army

BUKIDNON (MDN Mindanao News, June 27) - The members of a rebel group operating in decades in the country have made massive surrenders to the fold of the law, the military reported Thursday.

Sixty-four also of the rebel sympathizers that identified themselves as Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) have reportedly cut ties with the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army.

The military also reported that on Thursday, 26 UGMO members and seven members of Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) voluntarily surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion in Impasug-ong town in Bukidnon. Another NPA leader in Kitaotao town, also in Bukidnon Province has surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion based in Maramag municipality.

Prior to that, there were already three communist rebels who surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion and they brought with them four landmines and a garand rifle. The landmines have been banned under the International Humanitarian law.

In Barangay Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City, two members of UGMO left the NPA organization and sought help from the 65th IB based in barangay Dansolihon. The surrenderees turned over two sub machine guns namely: an M635 and Uzi.

In Valencia City, Bukidnon, 17 UGMO members and 2 MB members went back to the fold of the law and surrender themselves at the 88th Infantry battalion.

Another NPA member, who identify himself as alias Puks, also surrendered to the 25th Infantry Battalion in Monkayo, Compostela Valley Prevince. Puks also surrendered his ,45 caliber pistol and two 25-kilogram of IHL banned landmines.

In Jabonga town, Agusal del Norte, 3 NPA leaders surrendered to the 30th Infantry Battalion and turned over their m14 rifle, AR15 rifle and banned landmines.

In Paquibato Disrtrict, Davao City, an UGMO secretary went to the 16th Infantry Battalion and surrendered, including nine ILL-banned landmines.

All the surrenderees will received cash assistance from the government to start a new life with the government. They will also enrol at the Enhanced Local Integration Programs (ELIP) of the government for more government assistance and livelihood projects in the future.

AFP-CRS: Explosion transpires in Sulu

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 29, 2019): Explosion transpires in Sulu

Explosion transpires in Sulu

An explosion transpired at headquarters of 1st Brigade Combat Team in Tanjung, Indanan, Sulu at 12 noon today, June 28.

Three soldiers died and nine others were wounded. The wounded were promptly given medical attention by the responding troops.

Troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu are currently on alert.

Source CPIO, WMC
---

"Kami’y nagbibigay pugay sa kabayanihan ng ating mga sundalo na nagbuwis ng buhay para makapamuhay ng mapayapa at malayo sa kapahamakan ang bawat Pilipino. Para sa mga pamilyang iniwan ng aming mga bayaning sundalo kami’y taos pusong nakikiramay. Maraming salamat sa buhay ng inyong padre de pamilya na ibinuwis ang kanilang buhay para mapanatili ang kapayapaan ng ating bansa."

-Bayaning Sundalo



AFP-CRS: 29IB Troopers facilitate the immediate assistance to Former Rebels

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 29, 2019): 29IB Troopers facilitate the immediate assistance to Former Rebels



29IB Troopers facilitate the immediate assistance to Former Rebels

The Matatag troopers under Commanding Officer Lt. Col Isagani O Criste facilitated the release of immediate assistance to the newly surrendered NPA regular members at Headquarters 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City yesterday, June 26, 2019. Congresswoman elect Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba personally talked to the said FRs and handed over immediate assistance worth Fifteen Thousand Pesos (P 15,000.00) each.

#EndLocalTerroristCommunistArmedConflict
#AFPyoucanTRUST

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AFP-CRS: Online Flier: "Help the Victims not the Terrorists"

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 29, 2019): Help the Victims not the Terrorists

Tulungan ang mga biktima hindi ang mga terorista

Paano?

- Mag-alay ng panalangin
- Makinig at magbasa ng balita mula sa mga awtoridad hinggil sa pangyayari.
- Huwag magpagamit sa propaganda ng terorista
- Iwasang i-post o ikalat ang mga larawan ng mga biktima sa Social Media
- I-report ang mga account na sumusuporta sa mga terorista

Maging Responsable. "THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK"

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AFP-CRS: Enkwentro sa Mindoro; 1 NPA patay, iba pa- sugatan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 29, 2019): Enkwentro sa Mindoro; 1 NPA patay, iba pa- sugatan

Enkwentro sa Mindoro; 1 NPA patay, iba pa- sugatan

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal- Isa na namang miyembro ng teroristang New Peoples Army (NPA) ang kumpirmadong patay sa naganap na enkwentro sa Sitio Cambiswer, Poblacion, Bayan ng Calintaan, Occidental Mindoro sa pagitan ng pinagsanib na pwersa ng militar at pulisya laban sa teroristang grupo kaninang pasado alas-nuebe ng umaga.

Bukod dito, marami pa ang hinihinalang sugatan sa hanay ng mga NPA base sa nakitang mga dugong nagkalat sa kanilang pinagtaguan. Narekober din ang mga militar ang isang (1) M14 rifle, isang (1) M16 rifle with attached 203 Grenade Launcher, isang (1) bandoleer na naglalaman ng mga bala, isang (1) binocular, isang (1) hanheld ICOM radio, isang (1) improvised explosive device o IED, mga subersibong dokumento at mga personal na kagamitan.

Ayon kay Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Arbolado, Pinuno ng 4th Infantry Battalion, nakatanggap sila ng impormasyon galing sa isang sibilyan na meron grupo ng mga NPA sa Barangay Poypoy na nangingikil ng pagkain at pera sa kanilang komunidad. Dahil dito, agaran silang nagplano kasama ang ilan tauhan ng Calintaan PNP at nagsagawa ng operasyon upang protektahan at pangalagaan ang mga tao sa nasabing lugar.

Batay sa ulat, habang nagpapatrolya ang militar sa nasabing lugar ay nakatanggap sila ng panibagong impormasyon na lumipat ang mga NPA at ito ay kanilang sinundan. Nagpangabot ang magkalabang grupo sa may Sitio Cambiswer, sakop ng Poblasyon at umabot sa hindi bababa sa tatlumpong minuto ang naging palitan ng putok ng magkabilang panig.

Samantala, bahagya namang nasugatan sa may bandang likuran si Corporal Freddie S Casinova subalit agad naman syang nalapatan ng pangunanang lunas at ngayon ay nasa mabuti ng kalagayan.

Sa pahayag ni Brigadier General Marceliano V Teofilo, 203rd Brigade Commander, nais nyang purihin ang mga kasundaluhan na magiting na ginagampanan ang sinumpaang tungkulin upang pangalagaan at protektahan ang mamamayan ng Mindoro. Nagpapasalamat din sya sa mga mamamayan na patuloy na sumusuporta sa kapulisan at kasundaluhan upang malupig ang mga teroristang NPA at makamit ang katahimikan sa isla ng Mindoro.
Matatandaan na ang mga teroristang NPA ang pangunahing salarin sa pagpatay kina Kenny Dam-in Aquino, Jun-jun Ysog at Jose Barera na isang IP lider sa bayan ng San Jose. Sila rin ang may pananagutan sa pagkasunog ng mga construction equipment ng Martinez Enterprise at Sta Clara Hydro-electric power plant sa Bayan ng Naujan.

Sa mga naunang pahayag ni BGEN Teofilo, mariin nyang kinokondena ang mga ginagawang krimen ng mga teroristang NPA at nananawagan sa mga progresibong grupo tulad ng Karapatan at National Union of Peoples Lawyer (NUPL) na magsagwa ng sariling imbestigasyon sa mga nabanggit na krimen ng NPA nang sa ganun ay mabigyan ng hustisya ang pagkamatay nina Aquino, Ysog at Barera at sa mga may-ari ng construction equipment.
Nito lang nagdaang dalawang (2) linggo, tatlong NPA rin ang nasawi kabilang ang isang lider na si Boniofacio Magramo @Eboy sa pakikippagsagupa sa militar at pulisya sa Panaytayan, Bayan ng Mansalay. Pinaniniwalaang si @Eboy ang Kalihim ng Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA)- 4E na nanggugulo sa Probinsya ng Palawan.

“Patuloy naming isasagawa ang focused military operation dito nang sa ganun ay maabot natin nag-iisang pangarap na magkaroon ng matiwasay at tahimik na pamumuhay dito sa Mindoro. Hindi ko hahayaan na mamayagpag at magdulot ng takot ang teroristang NPA na syang dahilan ng kaguluhan at kahirapan dito sa aking nasasakupan dagdag na pahayag ni BGen Teofilo.

Ayon naman kay Brigadier General Elias Escarcha, 2nd Infantry Division Commander, na ang enkwentro ay resulta ng mahusay na pakikipagtulungan at koordinasyon ng ating kasundaluhan sa mga mamamayan ng Mindoro. "Nananawagan ako sa mga nalalabing lider at miyembro ng NPA na magbalik-loob na sa gobyerno at taos-pusong tanggapin ang programa nito na Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. Di namin kayo pababayaan, at bibigyan namin ng nararapat na atensyong medikal ang mga kasamahan ninyong sugatan”.

Samantala, patuloy pa rin ang isinasagawang pursuit operation ng mga militar at pulisya sa nasabing lugar.

Authenticated by: CPT PATRICK JAY M RETUMBAN, Chief, 2DPAO
Date: June 29, 2019
Email: pjretumban07@gmail.com/dpao2id@gmail.com
Cp #: 09772771986

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AFP-CRS: Philippine Navy and JMSDF Meeting Engagement in the Sulu Sea

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP_CRS) Facebook Page (Jun 29, 2019): BRP DAVAO DEL SUR (LD602) welcomes to Philippine waters contingents of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force Escort Flotilla 1 (JMSDF EF1) 

BRP DAVAO DEL SUR (LD602) welcomes to Philippine waters contingents of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force Escort Flotilla 1 (JMSDF EF1) during a Meeting Engagement at the vicinity of Cagayan de Sulu, Tawi Tawi on 28 June 2019. The JMSDF EF1 includes vessels JS IZUMO (DDH-183), JS MURASAME (DD-101) and JS AKEBONO (DD-108) with SH-60K patrol helicopters onboard.

The customary meeting procedure accorded by LD602 to the flotilla is a prime opportunity for the PN and JMSDF to enhance interoperability and strengthen relationship among like-minded Navies to promote peace and stability in the region. More importantly, it gave the JMSDF a glimpse of Filipino hospitality.

JMSDF EF1 is scheduled to call on the Port of Subic this weekend and further interact with the personnel of the PN. This further highlights the continuing commitment between the two Navies towards the peaceful use of the seas.

#ProtectingtheSeasSecuringourFuture
#AFPyoucanTRUST

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