2 kids die in mortar explosion in Maguindanao, 4 others injured

From the Manila Bulletin (May 24, 2020): 2 kids die in mortar explosion in Maguindanao, 4 others injured (By Aaron Recuenco)

Two children died while four others, including their parents, were injured following a loud explosion in Datu Saudi Ampatuan in Maguindanao.

Police Lt. Melvin Laguting, chief of police of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, said the initial report they received was that an 81mm mortar exploded in the house of Tambac family in Barangay Kitango at around 3:30 p.m. Sunday

“Based on our investigation, there was a mortar shelling and the target appeared to be the house of the victims,” said Laguting in an interview over DZBB.

The victims’ house is located near a public market.

He said the two fatalities were children aged seven and 10. Police said the victims were siblings.

Laguting said one of the fatalities died on the spot, while the other one succumbed to serious injuries in the local hospital.

“Their parents were also injured,” said Laguting. “We are still conducting an investigation to identify the perpetrators.”

The military confirmed the explosion and casualties, and said it was looking into the involvement of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a breakaway faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/24/2-kids-die-in-mortar-explosion-in-maguindanao-4-others-injured/

ReCAAP ISC Issues Warning on Activity of Abu Sayyaf Group in waters off Sabah, Malaysia

Posted to Hellenic Shipping News (May 24, 2020): ReCAAP ISC Issues Warning on Activity of Abu Sayyaf Group in waters off Sabah, Malaysia



ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre on 22 May issued the following Warning:

1. On 22 May, ReCAAP ISC has received information from the Philippine Coast Guard (ReCAAP Focal Point) that a group of approximately five ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) members armed with assorted firearms is planning to conduct kidnapping activities in undisclosed areas in Sabah, Malaysia. They are targeting wealthy businessmen or crew of fishing boats and other slow moving ships plying within the waters off Sabah, Malaysia. The group came from Sulu and was monitored to have landed at Omapoy Island, Sipangkot, Sitangkai, Tawi Tawi.

2. Ship masters and crew are strongly urged to exercise extra vigilance when transiting the waters off Eastern Sabah and in the Sulu-Celebes Seas.

3. Source: Philippine Coast Guard

4. This information is to provide maritime situational awareness for mariners operating in the area


Source: ReCAAP ISC

https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/recaap-isc-issues-warning-on-activity-of-abu-sayyaf-group-in-waters-off-sabah-malaysia/

CPP/NDF-PKM-Negros Island: Palayason kag pasabton si Sinas kag ang rehimen US-Duterte sa ila mga paglapas kag brutal nga mga krimen sa pumuluyo!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 22, 2019): Palayason kag pasabton si Sinas kag ang rehimen US-Duterte sa ila mga paglapas kag brutal nga mga krimen sa pumuluyo!

FELICIDAD MERCADO

SPOKESPERSON

PKM-NEGROS ISLAND

PAMBANSANG KATIPUNAN NG MGA MAGBUBUKID

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

MAY 22, 2020

Ang Pambansang Katipunan ng Magsasaka (PKM-Negros) ang mabaskog nga nagakondenar sa wala sang aksyon sang inutil nga gobyerno ni Duterte sa paglapas ni NCRPO Chief Debold Sinas angot sa ginhiwat nga mañanita sa iya kaadlawan nga nagalapas sa protocol kag regulasyon sang Enhanced Community Quarantine kag sa iya malawig nga listahan sang makasiligni nga mga krimen nga nakomiter batuk sa pumuluyo.

Nagapamatuod lang sa ka-inutil, bugos kag indi patas nga laye sang gobyerno kag sang nagalala nga inhustisya sa pungsod sa diin nagapadayon nga hilway ang mga matuod-tuod nga kriminal, nagalapak sa tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag mamamatay-tawo samtang padayon nga naga-antus ang malapad nga sahing pigos kag ginahimuslan sa kapabayaan, kapalpakan kag kapintas sang reaksyunaryo nga gobyerno sa tunga sang pangkalibutanon nga krisis kag emerhensiya nga gina-atubang sang pumuluyo tuga sang Covid-19 nga pandemya.

Imbes nga hatagan sang matul-id nga imbestigasyon kag pasabton sang gobyerno ni Duterte si Sinas, hayagan pa ini nga ginadepensahan, apang ang mga pumuluyong pigos ang madali lang kag wala kalu-oy nga ginapangdakop, ginapriso, ginapintasan kag ginapamatay sang mga mersenaryo nga pwersa sang estado sa diin nagapakita lamang sa nagalala nga impyunidad kag ka berdugo sang tiraniko nga rehimen US-Duterte sa pungsod.

Magapabilin ang berdugo nga tatak ni Sinas partikular diri sa Isla sang Negros ilabi na sang siya ang nagtindog nga pamuno sang PNP-PRO 7 nga utok-utok sa paglunsar sang madinugu-on nga Synchronized Enhanced Managing of Police Operation (SEMPO) ukon “Oplan Sauron 1 & 2” sa diin masobra 20 ka mangunguma ang biktima sang makasiligni nga pagpamatay kag madamu pa ang biktima sang illegal nga pagpang-aresto base sa peke kag ginpangtanom nga mga ebidensya.

Kutob subong wala sang klaro nga imbestigasyon kag wala napasabat ang utok sa nasambit nga operasyon. Nagapadayon nga hilway kag may mataas pa nga posisyon sa gobyerno ang mga berdugo nga mga kriminal nga may kahimu-an sini. Gani, wala sang huya si Sinas sa ginhambal sini nga mag “move on” na ang pumuluyo sa iya ginhimo nga paglapas sa regulasyon sang kwarantina bangud mintras wala sang naangkon nga hustisya ang mga biktima sang ila demonyo nga operasyon padayon nga mangin preska sa huna-huna kag tagipusu-on sang pumuluyo ilabi na sang sahing mangunguma ang ila mga brutalidad kag pasismo.

Nagakadapat lamang nga kondenahon kag sukton si Sinas kag ang pasista nga rehimen US-Duterte sa ila brutal nga mga krimen nga ginkomiter sa malapad nga hanay sang mga mangunguma, aktibista, tigdampig sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag inosenteng mga sibilyan sa ila wala untat kag sistematiko nga pagpang-atake kag militarista nga mga tikang sa pagsabat sa demokratiko nga mga demanda sang mga pumuluyo.

Bilang mayorya nga sahi sa aton sosyedad, nagakadapat nga mag-isa kag maghulag ang minilyon sa aton nga hanay agud paslawon ang naga-agnas nga gobyerno ni Duterte nga ginaharian sang mga despotiko nga mga agalon mayduta kag dalagko nga mga burukrata kapitalista. Wasakon ang kakugmat kag palayason ang paantus, pabaya, korap, inutil kag diktador nga rehimen US-Duterte. ###



https://cpp.ph/statement/palayason-kag-pasabton-si-sinas-kag-ang-rehimen-us-duterte-sa-ila-mga-paglapas-kag-brutal-nga-mga-krimen-sa-pumuluyo/

CPP/NPA-West Carmarines Sur: Kinukundena ng NPA West Camarines Sur ang masaker sa Sorsogon na kagagawan ng AFP-PNP, sa gitna ng pandemyang Covid-19

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 22, 2019): Kinukundena ng NPA West Camarines Sur ang masaker sa Sorsogon na kagagawan ng AFP-PNP, sa gitna ng pandemyang Covid-19

KA MICHAEL ROBREDO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-WEST CAMARINES SUR

NORBEN GRUTA COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

MAY 22, 2020

Mariing kinukondena ng Norben Gruta Command-NPA West Camarines Sur ang masaker sa limang sibilyan sa Barangay Dolos, Bulan, Sorsogon noong Mayo 8, 2020. Ang mga pinaslang ay sina Jeric Vuno, Jerry Palanca, Raymundo Tañada, Jaime Tañada at Robert Villafuerte. Nabatid na ang mga biktima ay pawang mga magsasaka at magkakapamilya. Ang huling nabanggit na si Robert Villafuerte ay may karamdaman sa pag-iisip.

Ang malagim na masaker ay resulta ng pinagsanib na operasyon na isinagawa ng 31st IB, PNP 9th Special Action Force Battalion, military at police intelligence units, kasabay ang regional at provincial mobile force units ng PNP.

Ginagamit ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno ang pandemya para bigyang katwiran ang lubos na panggigipit at panunupil sa sibilyang populasyon. Hindi kontentando si Duterte sa pagpapatupad ng Memo 32 sa Negros, Samar at Bicol na naglalagay sa mga ito sa de Facto Martial Law. Dahil sa laganap na pandemya, nagkaroon ulit nang dahilan ang rehimen para malayang makapanupil ang AFP-PNP sa hanay ng malawak na masa sa buong bansa.

Ang sistematikong panunupil ay laganap ngayon sa iba’t ibang panig ng Kabikulan. Sa unang Distrito ng Camarines Sur, nitong Mayo 3 ng gabi, dinukot ng sampung armadong kalalakihan sa kanilang pamamahay si Apolinario Vergara, 38 taong gulang may pamilya na taga Del Carmen, Lupi. Batay sa mga nakasaksi, binugbog si Vergara ng mga dumukot sa kanya. Kinalaunan, inanunsyo ni PLt. Col. James Ronatay, tagapagsalita ng Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office, na si Vergara di umano ay kasapi ng NPA at nagsurender dahil aniya sa hirap na kaniyang nararanasan sa bundok dahil sa pinapairal pa rin na ‘Community Quarantine.’ Sapilitan siyang pinasuko at isinailalim sa hungkag na Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Imbes na tulungan ang mamamayan sa sobrang kahirapan dahil sa pandemya, mas pinili ng gubyerno na gamitin ang pagkakataon para sa hibang na ambisyon nitong supilin at durugin ang lehitimong paglaban ng mamamayan at ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Walang pinipiling panahon at oras si Duterte para pakilusin ang kaniyang mga militar at pulis para palasapin ng kanyang nakamamatay na bayrus ang mamamayan. Kakambal ito ng mga arbitrayong restriksyon sa ilalim ng ECQ at GCQ, na pareho lang sa esensya at pilit na, ay pilit na ipinalulunok sa masang inaapi. Para kay Duterte, walang ibang solusyon sa Covid-19 kundi ang magpagapos sa kanyang batas militar na pamamaraan sa tabing ng lockdown at new normal stage diumanodi umano’y new normal stage.

Sa gitna ng inutil at militaristang pagharap ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa Covid-19, tinitiyak naman ng mga rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa kanayunan na maghanda sa banta ng pagkalat ng Covid-19 at pagkalat ng AFP-PNP na nagpapalaganap ng bayrus ni Duterte sa malawak na mamamayan. Inaasahan na higit na bulberable ang masa sa kanayunan sa pandemya dahil sa kawalan ng sapat na serbisyong medikal sa ilalim ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno. Magpapatuloy ang takot at banta sa buhay ng mamamayan dahil sa matinding militarisasyon.

Dahil dito, pangunahing tungkuling ngayon ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan na pagkaisahin ang mamamayan at mahigpit na makipagkapit-bisig sa kanila para labanan ang epekto ng pandemya at para supilin ang Duterte bayrus. Susi dito ang pagpapatupad ng tunay na reporma sa lupa at pagpapataas ng produksyon upang lutasin ang kagutuman at kasalatan ng pagkain na dulot ng pinalalawig ng “lockdown”.

Nananawagan ang NGC sa mga Bikolano na biguin ang tangka ni Duterte na gamitin ang pandemyang Covid para sa walang habas na paninindak at panunupil sa mga pwersang lumalaban. Sa panahon ng pandemyang Covid-19, nalantad ang kainutilan ng reaksyunaryong rehimeng US-Duterte at ang pinaghaharian nitong malakolonyal at malapyudal na lipunan na wala itong makabuluhan at epektibong solusyong maka-mamamayan para labanan ang krisis pangkalusugan. Dapat panatilihin ng rebolusyonaryong pwersa ang militansya at postura ng aktibong depensa sa patraydor at buhong na mga atake ng rehimeng US-Duterte.###

https://cpp.ph/statement/kinukundena-ng-npa-west-camarines-sur-ang-masaker-sa-sorsogon-na-kagagawan-ng-afp-pnp-sa-gitna-ng-pandemyang-covid-19/

CPP/IO: AFP lead in subsidy distribution equals more corruption and abuses

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 22, 2019): AFP lead in subsidy distribution equals more corruption and abuses

MARCO VALBUENA

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

MAY 22, 2020

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) denounces the assignation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as the lead force in the distribution of social subsidies for families affected by the Duterte regime’s military lockdown. This will certainly lead to more corruption and abuses.

The social subsidy distribution will be used by the AFP as an additional tool in wholesale violations of human rights. Hundreds of thousands of people, especially in the rural areas, will surely be denied of their social subsidies because they will be accused of being supporters of the NPA, unless they agree to “cooperate” with the AFP. Expect a deluge of AFP reports of “surrenders” in line with SAP distribution.

The billions of pesos of social amelioration funds that Duterte will download to the AFP’s coffers are bound to line the pockets of Duterte’s favorite military officers with the calculation that this will further deepen their loyalty to the tyrant. There will surely be corruption down the line, with field officers getting their own proportionate share.

Corruption is rampant in the AFP. Its officers and men keep silent on corruption, especially because they all get their “fair share.” The AFP is one of the dirtiest institutions in the country. Its generals and commander-in-chief, the Philippine president, yearly pocket billions of pesos in overpriced arms purchases and in the padded budgets of field operations.

By having the AFP lead in the distribution of the subsidy, Duterte wants to further instill fear among the people and push his scheme of fascist dictatorship. His immediate aim is to preempt and stifle any complaints of corruption and bureaucratic red tape in the distribution of subsidies. He wants to consolidate his fascist machinery down to the barangay level and have everyone abide by his armed authority.

Under the “whole-of-nation” dogma, he wants every aspect of society placed under the control of the military and its counterinsurgency aims. He wants things run under the military’s fascist mode of thinking and methods of operation, where one is presumed to be “an NPA supporter” unless they take part or subsume their activities in the AFP’s programs.

Duterte is making the military invade all aspects of civilian society in order to establish a “new normal” where the military and police controls every aspect of social and civic life.

https://cpp.ph/statement/afp-lead-in-subsidy-distribution-equals-more-corruption-and-abuses/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Militarization in Surigao del Sur terrorizes Lumads

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): Militarization in Surigao del Sur terrorizes Lumads



Residents were terrorized upon the arrival of soldiers and police in their communities at Km. 16 and Han-ayan in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur last May 19. According to residents, several soldiers entered the Lumad school which is being administered by Alcadev (Alternative Learning Center for Agriculture and Livelihood Development) in Han-ayan while others entered the houses of residents in search of the leaders of Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU). They also looked for Alcadev coordinator Maricres Pagaran, Fr. Raymond Ambray and Lianga councilor Sammy Dollano. Earlier that day, the police arrested resident Eric Enriquez.

Using fighter jets, the military dropped four bombs near the community at around 3 a.m. on May 12. Five artillery rounds were also fired at the same area.
On the succeeding four days, drones and helicopters were flown overhead across the community. Leaflets stating “surrender now or be infected with Covid-19” were dropped from helicopters.

Meanwhile, farmers from Northern Samar also reported various cases of human rights violations perpetrated by elements of the 20th IB while conducting military operations in their communities amid the Covid-19 crisis. From April 7-18, soldiers harassed, threatened and coerced at least six farmers and a six-year-old child to serve as guides in their combat operations. The victims are residents of Barangay Deit de Turag, Silvino Lobos. Residents also reported that soldiers assaulted another resident of the village. Soldiers also coerced a resident of Barangay MacArthur, Las Navas to serve as guide in their operations last April 18.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/militarization-in-surigao-del-sur-terrorizes-lumads/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Landgrabbing at the core of “Balik Probinsya”

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): Landgrabbing at the core of “Balik Probinsya”

Landgrabbing in the cities and countryside is at the core of the Duterte regime’s Balik Probinsya (Back to the Provinces) program. Rodrido Duterte and his lackey Christopher Go is peddling the program as a solution to the congestion in Metro Manila during the Covid-19 pandemic. But this program is neither new nor original.

Every government from Marcos to Benigno Aquino had its own version of the “back to the province” program. For decades, the reactionary state has been attempting to evict poor communities from Metro Manila to free up prime real estate for bourgeois compradors and their foreign counterparts.

Under Duterte’s Balik Probinsya, the poor will be given land in the provinces that is already occupied by settlers and minorities. These include the 15-hectare public land to be granted to each returning family that is to be planted with trees under the National Greening Program. The said program covers farms and ancestral lands targeted for expansion of commercial tree plantations.

Instead of Balik Probinsya, the urban poor demands the prompt construction of affordable and decent housing as a solution to congestion in Metro Manila and other city centers. It should address their clamor for jobs, wage and income increase and social services, instead of throwing them to the countryside where poverty rates are even higher and there are no jobs. To address the migration of people to the cities, the rural economy must be developed by free distribution of land and setting up agriculture-related industries in the provinces.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/landgrabbing-at-the-core-of-balik-probinsya/

CPP/Ang Bayan: 31st IB, 9th SAF massacre 5 farmers in Sorsogon

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): 31st IB, 9th SAF massacre 5 farmers in Sorsogon

Five farmers were massacred by soldiers and police troops SEMPO-style (Synchronized Enhanced Management of Police Operations) in Barangay Dolos, Bulan, Sorsogon on May 8. The victims were Jeric Vuno, Jerry Palanca, Robert Villafuerte, Raymundo Tañada and Jaime Tañada. Jaime Tañada was suffering from the infirmities of old age while Villafuerte was mentally challenged.

The perpetrators made it appear that the farmers were Red fighters, a claim which was vehemently belied by residents. According to witnesses, soldiers ransacked seven houses in the barrio, and arrested and hogtied all male residents. Soldiers mauled the barangay officials who attempted to rescue the victims.

The soldiers brought the five victims at the backyard where they were shot. The cadavers of the victims bore marks of torture. The massacre was perpetrated by the 31st IB, 9th Special Action Force Battalion, Provincial Mobile Force Company of PNP Sorsogon and intelligence units.

Simultaneously, the same units also attacked the neighboring ba­rangay of Calpi. They ransacked the residences of the Abuyog, Golimlim and Estiller families. They mauled Jeffrey Godala and Jojo Palanca, and two other Estiller minors. The soldiers also stole the residents’ money, cellphones and other personal belongings.

SEMPO was first conducted in Negros in 2018-2019 wherein at least 35 peasants were killed. The operations were then spearheaded by Police MGen. Debold Sinas, currently the chief of police in Metro Manila.

In Batangas, police elements also illegally arrested six residents of Barangay Coral ni Lopez, Calaca, SEMPO-style, in the early morning of May 10. The victims were identified as peasant leaders Leovino Julongbayan, Virgilio Vidal, Marcelo Vidal, Doroteo Bautista, July Julongbayan and Roilan Tenorio.

Meanwhile, elements of the 85th IB arrested farmer Leoben Holeto at a checkpoint in Lopez, Quezon on May 4. Holeto was on his way home after undergoing a medical surgery when he was apprehended together with his mother.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/31st-ib-9th-saf-massacre-5-farmers-in-sorsogon/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Duterte regime, to purchase P2.4-B artilerie systems amid crisis

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): Duterte regime, to purchase P2.4-B artilerie systems amid crisis

The Duterte regime, last May 12, issued a notice to proceed with the procurement of the artillery systems worth P2.4 billion from Israeli company Elbit Systems amid the continuing economic crisis brought about by Covid-19.

The contract covers the procurement of two ATMOS 2000 155mm/52 Caliber Self-propelled Howitzer Systems, two batteries, with six mobile firing units each, and associated support systems.

The said system has a maximum range of 41 kilometers and a fire rate of 3 rounds/15 seconds on burst mode, 5 rounds/minute on rapid mode, and more than 80 rounds per hour on sustained mode.

The procurement program was made under the AFP modernization program which aims to boost Duterte’s arsenal in a vain attempt to fulfill his ambition to decimate the armed revolutionary movement before the end of his term.

The use of oversized cannons and helicopter gunships only results in indiscriminate destruction of communities and the environment, endangers people’s lives and livelihood, and causes psychological trauma especially on children.

The first set of artillery system is expected to be delivered in 2021.

Relatedly, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of the US Department of State approved last April 30 the Duterte regime’s request to buy six AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters and other war matériel and services worth P75 billion.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana noted that the price of helicopters is too high and said that the regime could not buy these. However, he made no mention of whether they will still buy the thousands of missiles, weapons, and other war matériel which are also part of the contract. Lorenzana said that the regime is more inclined to procuring cheaper helicopters from Turkey.

Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Romualdez said in an interview last May 13 that the UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter which the regime purchased last year from the US are set to be delivered soon. The contract for the procurement of 16 helicopters was signed earlier last year for P1.21 billion. The helicopters were bought from PZL Mielec a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, one of the biggest defense companies and part of the US military-industrial complex. Meanwhile, the BRP Jose Rizal is also set to be delivered to the country on May 23. The ship was purchased along with the BRP Antonio Luna by the regime from Hyundai South Korea for P18 billion.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/duterte-regime-to-purchase-p2-4-b-artilerie-systems-amid-crisis/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Cadres conduct education conference in Negros

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): Cadres conduct education conference in Negros

THIRTY EDUCATION CADRES from various guerrilla fronts, staff organs and underground mass organizations participated in the first education conference of the Party in Negros. The conference was conducted early on first quarter of the year in a guerrilla front.

The conference discussed and assessed their experiences in implementing the Party’s education program in previous years. It stressed the importance of establishing Red Schools in various levels to serve as a machinery in advancing education work.

Each cadre explained the need for an “assiduous, systematic and extensive conduct of studies on the three-level Party course…[and] on courses and lessons under the curriculum of the National Democratic School.”

The cadres were determined to advance education work after forging a stronger unity during the conference. The conference was launched with the help of a unit of the New People’s Army which secured the area amid the conduct of nonstop military combat operations in the island. (From Ang Paghimakas, May 2020.)

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/cadres-conduct-education-conference-in-negros/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA-Northern Samar harasses notorious 20th IB

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): NPA-Northern Samar harasses notorious 20th IB

THE NEW PEOPLE’S Army (NPA)-Northern Samar mounted three successive harassment operations against 20th IB soldiers who have long been wreaking havoc in Barangay San Miguel, Las Navas.

A soldier was killed in a sniping operation mounted by Red fighters against a temporary military encampent in the area on May 9. In retaliation, the soldiers strafed two peasant houses at Zone 7 in the said barangay. Residents were forced to flee because of this. Red fighters fired at the soldiers again that evening.

A day earlier, Red fighters and the people’s militia harassed a military encampment which they constructed just a few meters away from a school. Two soldiers were seriously wounded.

The 20th IB has been conducting Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) operations in San Miguel and adjacent barrios Perez, Quirino and San Francisco. The unit has not withdrawn its forces even when the Duterte regime declared its ceasefire. Soldiers continue to perpetrate cases of harassment and force civilians and even barangay officials to surrender as members of the NPA. They travel in-and-out of the barrios and approach residents without taking precautions to prevent the spread of Covid-19 such as wearing face masks or observing physical distancing. They also spearhead gatherings such as the conduct of cockfights.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/npa-northern-samar-harasses-notorious-20th-ib/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA-Bukidnon attacks abusive soldiers

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 21, 2019): NPA-Bukidnon attacks abusive soldiers

THE NEW PEOPLE’S Army (NPA)-Bukidnon mounted successive military offensives against abusive soldiers in the province from May 5-14. Four fascist soldiers were killed while two others were wounded.

On May 11, Red fighters sniped at elements of the 60th IB at 56th IB at Sitio Tapayanon, Barangay Mandahikan, Cabanglasan. Their presence in the barrio has long been causing grave hardships and abuses against the masses. Two soldiers were killed in the offensive.
A day earlier, another NPA unit sniped a detachment of the 8th IB at Sitio Miaray, Barangay Mandahikan. Two soldiers were killed and two others were wounded.

Meanwhile, Red fighters also ambushed two intelligence agents of the 8th IB in separate incidents. On May 10, Red fighters ambushed a CAFGU element in Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City. The said element served as guide of the 8th IB in its combat operations.

On May 13, another intelligence agent was killed in Barangay Indalasa, Cabanglasan. The said agent was behind the forced “surrender” of Lumad Talaandigs and the killing of two members of peasant group Ogyon in Cabanglasan.

A unit of the NPA-Bukidnon also harassed a detachment of the CAA in Barangay Bolunay, Impasug-ong on May 14. The same detachment was also harassed by the NPA on May 5.

Units of the NPA in the Panay island also harassed a military detachment in Barangay Anhawan, Janiuay, Iloilo on May 12 and another CAFGU detachment in Barangay Barasan, Igbaras in the same province on May 3.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/21/npa-bukidnon-attacks-abusive-soldiers/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Solidarity amid distress in Samar

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 23, 2019): Solidarity amid distress in Samar



Peasants from Northern Samar collectively faced the problem brought about the limited financial aid appropriated by the Duterte regime for those affected by the Covid-19 crisis. Through their revolutionary mass organization, they ensured that every family from barangays Ipil-ipil and Langka (not their real names) would be aided.

In Barangay Ipil-ipil, only 38 out of 64 pamilya were on the list of beneficiaries had received an aid worth P5,000 to P8,000 under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP). As in other barangays, local officials were obligated to impose a quota system.

Members of the peasant organization in Barangay Ipil-ipil, however, decided that all families must receive financial aid, whether or not their names are listed. To achieve this, the beneficiaries pooled together the amount they received and divided it to all families in the barrio. Of the P190,000 they were able to pool together, each family was able to receive an aid of P2,368 each. They included in the central fund the P68 provided by the barangay captain for their fare to and from the town center to buy basic supplies for villagers.

In Barangay Langka, 12 families were not included in the quota that was imposed by the local government. Through the organization’s guidance and education campaign, the beneficiaries decided to contribute P600 per family to raise funds for distribution for non-beneficiaries.

In Barangay Ipil-ipil, the organization conducted a mass meeting to explain to residents why they need to help their neighbors who are non-beneficiaries. The organization also helped barangay officials in administering the funds to prevent corruption. Members of the local Party branch guided the organization in coming up with the decision. A local NPA unit also helped in forging the unity of villagers.

The organization ensured the secrecy of the meeting and aid distribution to prevent the municipal government from interfering, especially as local government officials prohibit initiatives that are not in line with their aid distribution protocols even if such benefit the people.

Organizations from other barrios are already replicating the aid distribution intitiative. Meanwhile, the revolutionary mass organization in Barangay Ipil-ipil is already preparing to spearhead other campaigns against Covid-19 including food and herbal medicine production. (From Larab, May 9, 2020.)

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/23/solidarity-amid-distress-in-samar/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Regime railroads neoliberal measures as pandemic response

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 23, 2019): Regime railroads neoliberal measures as pandemic response

The Duterte regime is exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic to railroad the enactment of neoliberal reforms that it has long been pushing for. It repackaged the said measures under the PH-Progreso (Philippine Program for Recovery with Equity and Solidarity), a proposed program which purportedly aims to boost the economy which has been gravely devastated by the lockdown. The program primarily covers the old scheme to cut the corporate income tax and the implementation of infrastructure projects under the Build, Build, Build (BBB) program.

Even before the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, the economic growth in the Philippines has been slowing down for three years already. The economy nosedived as a result of the lockdown and the implementation of restrictions on production and service activities. In Metro Manila alone, 53% of enterprises in the service sector were forced to close due the lockdown. Approximately 73% of manufacturing operations in the national capital, Calabarzon and Central Luzon were also stopped. The import-export and transportation sectors were put to a halt. Because of this, nearly 23.7 million workers are in danger of losing their jobs. More than 400,000 small and medium enterprises also lost their incomes and are in danger of closing due to bankruptcy. The economic managers of the Duterte regime recently admitted that the local economy shrank by 0.2% during the first quarter of the year, the worst in more than two decades.

In response, the World Bank-trained economic managers of the regime announced the PH-Progreso proposal on May 14. Several associated bills have been filed in Congress.

Lower taxes for big capitalists

The PH-Progreso aims to railroad the lowering down of taxes on corporations as an incentive to foreign capitalists who wish to invest in government programs. This was originally proposed under the Tax Reform for Attracting Better and Higher Quality Opportunities (Trabaho) Bill, which later on became the Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Rationalization Act (CITIRA) which is now pending before the Senate. The CITIRA is the second tax reform package which foreign businesses, particularly US companies, have long lobbied for.

Under the new Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (Create) Bill, the corporate income tax will be lowered from 30% to 25%. It will also give the president the authority to tailor-fit tax incentives and exemptions for big companies. The regime aims to implement the reform as early as July by railroading the passage of the said bill before the Congress closes its session on June 5.

Based on conservative estimates of the National Economic Development Authority, the reactionary state will lose about P259 billion in corporate taxes until 2022 should the tax cuts be implemented. Multinationals and companies that rake in billions of profits in the country will primarily benefit from this reform.

Relatedly, Duterte ordered the Bureau of Internal Revenue to issue an order to provide tax exemptions and incentives to big companies that responded to his call for donations amid the pandemic. Under the said regulations issued on April 6, the total amount of financial and material donations given by corporations will be fully deducted from their gross incomes. While cutting corporate taxes, it imposed heavier taxes on the poor. Invoking his emergency powers, Duterte issued an executive order which implemented a 10% tax increase on imported crude oil and petroleum products. This is expected to result in oil price hikes which will be shouldered by the people in the coming months.

Trillions of funds for BBB

To give a new push to the slow implementation of the BBB program, the regime repackaged its infrastructure projects under the PH-Progreso as a strategy to purportedly create new jobs to address the massive unemployment crisis. In line with this recommendation, Duterte’s minion filed the Covid-19 Unemployment Reduction Economic Stimulus (CURES) Bill in Congress.

Through this, the regime will ensure that the P1-trillion funds appropriated for BBB will remain untouched, while allocating an additional P500 billion that will be sourced from loans and funds that will be collected by the Bangko Sentral. The P1.5 trillion fund, which will be disbursed in three stages (P500 billion per year from 2021-2023) will be apportioned by Duterte and his supermajority.

The BBB projects will not create sufficient and long-term employment opportunities. In the past, the much touted program has only contributed one-fourth of the total employment in the construction sector. Corrupt government officials are competing over the implementation of these infrastructure projects as this is where they source their massive kickbacks. Even amid the pandemic and intense hardships experienced by the people, the ruling classes continue to prioritize profiteering to further their self-serving interests.

[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://cpp.ph/2020/05/23/regime-railroads-neoliberal-measures-as-pandemic-response/

Troops clash with NPA in CamSur; 1 rebel dead

From the Manila Bulletin (May 23, 2020): Troops clash with NPA in CamSur; 1 rebel dead (By Martin Sadongdong)

The Philippine Army (PA) figured in an armed encounter with alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on Friday, leaving one suspect dead.


Philippine Army (MANILA BULLETIN)

Major General Fernando Trinidad, commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia, said elements of 83rd Infantry Battalion (83rd IB) were conducting security operations in coordination with the local police when they encountered at least 20 fully-armed men in Barangay Sta. Cruz Norte around 5:15 a.m.

A 25-minute firefight ensued until the enemies retreated, leaving behind one of their own who got killed.

Meanwhile, no one was hurt on the side of the government forces.

Trinidad said the operation was hatched based on a tip that reached them about the NPA’s supposed recruitment of fighters in the village.

He thanked the community for its cooperation with the government’s intensified campaign against insurgency.

“This only proves that the community strongly rejects the communist-terrorist group and its terroristic activities while the whole nation is battling a health crisis,” he said.

The troops brought the cadaver to Camp Angeles in Pili town for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, troops also recovered an M653 rifle, rifle grenade, four magazines, various ammunition, training kits, subversive documents, and other personal belongings on the encounter site.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/05/23/troops-clash-with-npa-in-camsur-1-rebel-dead/

BIFF bandit slain in Maguindanao clash

From the Philippine Star (May 24, 2020): BIFF bandit slain in Maguindanao clash (By John Unson)

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines — A member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) tagged in the killing of a soldier in Radjah Buayan town was slain in an encounter on Friday.

Sainudin Nilong died in a clash with personnel of the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Tabungao.

Nilong, said to be a BIFF bomb maker, was one of the two suspects in the ambush of Pfc. Jerome Tahad.

Tahad and his colleagues were on their way to their command post after manning a quarantine checkpoint when they were attacked.

In a report to Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon of the 6th Infantry Division, the 33rd IB said improvised explosive devices, bomb materials and ammunition were recovered from Nilong’s hideout.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/05/24/2016066/biff-bandit-slain-maguindanao-clash

Army: 2 Dawlah Islamiya members killed in Maguindanao

From the Philippine Star (May 24, 2020): Army: 2 Dawlah Islamiya members killed in Maguindanao (By John Unson)



FILE - Army soldiers guard a wooden footbridge in Barangay Tukanalipao in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in this file photo.  Philstar.com/John Unson, file

Soldiers shot dead two more members of the outlawed Dawlah Islamiya in a brief clash in Mamasapano town Saturday.
Patrolling personnel of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion were to inspect two men together on a motorcycle, one of them carrying an assault rifle, in Barangay Tuka in Mamasapano town in Maguindanao, but shot them instead when they opened fire, the Army said.

Col. Joel Mamon, acting commander of the Army’s 601st Brigade, said Sunday the two men died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds.

The Dawlah Islamiya, also known as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, uses the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria as banner.

The group is blamed for all deadly bombings in central Mindanao in the past five years.

Barangay residenrs confirmed to reporters that the slain motorists belong to a BIFF group behind the murder of more than 20 off-duty soldiers in central Mindanao’s adjoining Maguindanao and North Cotabato provinces since 2016.

The duo was killed four days after members of the 33rd IB shot dead BIFF hitman Sainudin Nilong, tagged in the fatal ambush of Pfc Jerome Tahad in Radjah Buayan town in Maguindanao last week.

Tahad was returning to their command post from a six-hour quarantine checkpoint duty when Nilong and a companion, riding a motorcycle together, attacked him from behind, killing him on the spot.

They took with them Tahad's rifle.

Nilong and his companions attacked the soldiers dispatched three days later to check his reported presence in Barangay Tabungao in Radjah Buayan, sparking a 30-minute gunfight that resulted in his death.

Major Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division, said he has ordered the 601st Brigade and all its units in the second district of Maguindanao and in Sultan Kudarat province to anticipate possible retaliations by the BIFF for the deaths of members in latest encounters with soldiers.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2020/05/24/2016171/army-2-dawlah-islamiya-members-killed-maguindanao

P5-M rehab center for ex-NPA rebels to rise in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2020): P5-M rehab center for ex-NPA rebels to rise in Bukidnon (By Rene M. Belmonte, Jr. CMO, 403rd Brigade, PA)

IMPASUG-ONG, Bukidnon, May 24 — The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) and Impasugong local government unit (LGU) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to start the construction of a P5 million rehab center or Halfway House for the ex-New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Located in Magbuliga Development Complex, Poblacion, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, the Halfway House will rise in a one-hectare land donated by Impasugong LGU.

In a statement, Engr. Carmelo Enrique Libot, provincial director of DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) in Bukidnon said this structure will house former rebels (FRs) who returned to the folds of the law.

He clarified that the facility will provide services such as psychological and psychosocial counseling, livelihood training, and capacity building activities to help the FRs cope with their confidence and freedom.

“This activity is a genuine proof that the government is very serious in helping out our former rebels. This is not just an effort of DILG, this is not just an effort of the municipality, the province, the Army, and PNP, but it is the effort of all of us. This is our way of supporting the government’s ‘whole-of-nation approach’ to finally end insurgency,” Libot said.

Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, 8IB commanding officer, further explained that the halfway house, staffed by counselors and aides, would assist the FRs in preparing for their reintegration into the mainstream society.

Impasugong town mayor Anthony Uy, who also graced the event, said "Working together is the key to our success. Without proper coordination and link up, this halfway house will not be realized. This initiative will surely bolster our efforts to encourage the NPA rebels to lay down their arms and avail of the government's Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Meanwhile, Col. Ferdinand Barandon, 403rd brigade commander who is also the Co-chairman of Bukidnon ECLIP Committee said that the Army and the Department of Agriculture would establish an agricultural farm for self-sufficiency while the ex-rebels make their transition back into community life.

Reports showed that to date, a total of 524 FRs, both regular and “Milisyang Bayan (NPA supporters),” returned to the folds of the law and their benefits are now being processed by the Bukidnon E-CLIP committee.

“I am so happy. God is so good that amidst the COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic, great things happen. We only dreamed of this many years ago but now we are getting started. After seven months from now, this rehab center will be completed and will cater FRs from around the province. I visualize that in this center, many lives will be transformed and families will be reunited. We will together bring back the dignity of a human being taken by the NPA from our fellow Filipinos,” Col. Barandon said. (Rene M. Belmonte Jr, CMO 403rd Bde, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042765

E-CLIP benefits ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2020): E-CLIP benefits ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon (By Rene M. Belmonte, Jr. CMO, 403rd Brigade, PA)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, May 24—Seven former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Bukidnon received a total of P365 thousand assistance and benefits from the government through the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

E-CLIP is a complete package of assistance for the NPA rebels who surrender to the government.

The beneficiaries received the incentives in a ceremonial awarding rite during the groundbreaking ceremony of the halfway house in Impasugong, Bukidnon that will cater to the psychosocial and psychological needs of the former rebels (FRs) in preparation for their reintegration into mainstream society.

Officials and representatives of government and non-government agencies witnessed the event.

The total amount received by the FRs includes firearm remuneration and livelihood assistance.

Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, 8IB commanding officer, lauded the said FRs for yielding and availing of the E-CLIP benefits.

“I encourage the surrenderees to continue convincing other active NPA and supporters to surrender and join the mainstream society for a peaceful life,” he said.

Engr. Carmelo Enrique Libot, provincial director of DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) in Bukidnon who graced the event, said that to date, 524 ex-NPA rebels have returned to the folds of law and the Bukidnon E-CLIP committee is now processing their incentives.

Col. Ferdinand Barandon, 403rd Brigade commander who is also the Co-chairman of Bukidnon ECLIP Committee said that the government has all the best programs to offer for the former rebels to enjoy peaceful and progressive lives.

“The benefits that the FRs received will be a big help for them to start a new life,” Col. Barandon said. (Rene M. Belmonte Jr, CMO 403rd Bde, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042766

624 ‘Bakwits’ in Bukidnon return home

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2020): 624 ‘Bakwits’ in Bukidnon return home (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO 8IB, 4ID)

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, May 24 — After three days of staying away from their homes, families from San Roque and Santa Rita sub-villages in barangay Sinanglanan, Malaybalay City who had evacuated for fear of their lives rode back home safely on Tuesday afternoon.

The evacuees, also known as “bakwits (internally displaced persons),” headed back to their homes with assurance from barangay council, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police for their safety.

On May 18 at 6:00 p.m, some of the Bakwits started heading home, while others opted to return the next day as Sinanglanan village chief Nilo Aldeguer offered his vehicles and facilitated the transport of his constituents.

In an interview, “Manang Ina” one of the evacuees said they left their homes after a band of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels awoke them Saturday night asking for cash and food.

“For fear of the NPA’s presence who sow terror and panic in our communities, we sought refuge here in nearby Sitio Malapgap on May 16,” she said.

Barangay chairman Nilo Aldeguer reported that the Bakwits, comprising 163 families of 624 individuals, including children, temporarily stayed inside Malapgap school classrooms to provide them more space in fear of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission.

“As soon as the authorities received the information, Malaybalay local government unit and other peace and development partners promptly provided relief operations, feeding program, and medical mission to ensure proper health condition of the evacuees. The Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army immediately secured the area and provided other assistance to ease the evacuees’ burden,” Aldeguer added.

An evacuee even shared “Gusto namo nga mobalik sa among panimalay kay tua didto ang among panginabuhi-an. Tungod aning teroristang NPA, naguba among malinawon nga panginabuhi. (We want to return to our respective villages because it is there that we earn enough to live on—our livelihood. Unluckily, these terrorist-NPAs had ruined our peaceful living).”

Likewise, the village chief said “Mapasalamaton ko nga makapa-uli na sila sa ilang panimalay. Nagpasalamat sab ko sa lokal nga gobyerno ug mga kasundalohan sa pagtabang kanamo aron masulbad kini nga problema. (I’m so happy that they [evacuees] can now return to their homes. I thanked the local government and the Army for helping us resolve these woes).

Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, 8th Infantry Battalion commander, meanwhile, condemned the NPA’s terroristic acts.

“I condemned these acts of the NPAs. They disrupted the peaceful living of our brothers and sisters. This unit will continue to facilitate their needs and ensure their safety,” he said. (CMBumatay, CMO, 8IB PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042564

Weeping mother to NPAs: Let my son return home

From the Philippine Information Agency (May 24, 2020): Weeping mother to NPAs: Let my son return home (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO 8IB, 4ID)

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon -- A 40 year-old mother begged the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to return her 23-year-old son who was fooled into joining the struggling communist-NPAs.

She said her son served as the NPA’s courier until he was not allowed to go back home.

In an interview, the weeping mother—known to her friends as “Mag”—tries to hold back her tears as she called the NPA’s to return her son who was recruited without her knowledge last May 12 in Sitio San Roque, barangay Sinanglanan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

“My son was fooled when they [NPAs] told him that they will send him to school thru the NPA’s “free education” program,” she said in dialect.

The sobbing mother also pleaded to government authorities to help her, as her son will never have a future with the communist rebels.

"Sa mga NPA nga nagkuha sa akong anak nga lalaki, ako nagapakilu-oy sa inyo nga ibalik intawon ninyo ang akong anak. Wala siya'y kaugmaon kaninyo. Naa pa siyay dagko nga pangandoy dili lang alang sa iyang kaugalingon apan sa amo sab nga pamilya. Anak, palihog balik na sa atong panimalay. Gahulat mi sa imo. (To the NPAs who took my son, I'm begging, please let him return home. He has no future with you. He has big dreams not only for himself but also for our family. My son, please come home, we are waiting for you),” Mag said.

Lt Col Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, 8th Infantry Battalion commander, meanwhile, said "Gipadayag nako ang akong lawom nga simpatiya sa nahitabo sa anak nga lalaki ni @Mag. Sa mga NPA, ihunong na ang pagmani-obra sa mga kabatan-onan aron lang ipadayon ang inyong mga bulok nga programa. (I extend my compassion to what happened to the son of “Mag.” To the NPAs, stop manipulating children and youth just to further your wicked programs).” (CMBumatay, CMO, 8IB PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1042610

2 BIFF gunmen slain in Maguindanao clash (Graphic Photo)

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): 2 BIFF gunmen slain in Maguindanao clash (By Edwin Fernandez)



MAMASAPANO CLASH. One of the two suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) gunmen slain in a brief clash with government forces in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Saturday (May 23, 2020). A third BIFF gunman managed to escape during the exchange of gunfire. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Two suspected members of the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were slain in a clash with government forces in Maguindanao on Saturday.

Troopers under the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion (33IB) were manning a quarantine checkpoint when they noticed three men acting suspiciously while onboard a motorbike in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao, according to 33IB commander, Lt. Col. Elmer Boongaling.

“The gunmen, when accosted, opened fire on the soldiers, triggering a brief firefight that ended in an open cornfield,” Boongaling said.

He said the suspects fled on foot, leaving behind their motorbike.

When smoke cleared, two men were found separately lying dead with two M16 rifles beside them. The third suspect managed to escape.

Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander and chief of the Joint Task Force Central, has alerted all ground troops to take preventive measures to thwart possible BIFF retaliations amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103773

Muslim Army troopers celebrate Eid'l Fitr in simple rites

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): Muslim Army troopers celebrate Eid'l Fitr in simple rites (By Nef Luczon)



EID'L FITR. Muslim Army troopers gather for a call to prayer while observing physical distancing inside the headquarters of 8th Infantry Battalion in Impasugong, Bukidnon on Saturday (May 23, 2020) as pre- celebration of Eid'l Fitr, 30 days after observing the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. (Photo courtesy of 8IB)

The threat of Covid-19 has made the pre-celebration of Eid'l Fitr simple among Muslim Army troopers inside the headquarters of the 8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion (8IB) on Saturday.

The soldiers made rites of prayers while observing quarantine protocols such as safe physical distancing and wearing of face masks.

They then continued to perform their duties within their areas of responsibilities in Bukidnon.

"Mapasalamaton ako nga bisan pa sa hulga sa Covid-19, na kaya gihapon namo isaulog ang usa sa duha ka dagkong okasyon sa Islam (I am thankful that despite of the Covid-19 crisis, we were able to celebrate one of the two major occasions of Islam)," one of the troopers said.

Lt. Col. Edgardo Talaroc Jr., 8IB commanding officer, said the Army battalion will continue to support diversity among soldiers.

"Akong gi dayag ang lig-on nga pagtuo sa among mga kaigsuonang Muslim sa pagpadayon sa pag saulog niining Hari Raya Eid al-Fitr. Kini nga yunit magpadayon sa pagsuporta ug pagtahod sa mga kalihokan sa among mga igsoon nga Muslim (I admire the strong faith of our Muslim troopers to pursue this Hari Raya Eid al-Fitr celebration. This unit will continue to support and respect the activities of our Muslim troopers)," he said.

Also known as Eid al-Fitr or “Festival of Breaking the Fast," it marks the end of the holy month and the month-long fasting of Ramadan.

The celebration is a time to reflect, contemplate and show gratitude to God.

Message from Bangsamoro

As the Muslims around the world celebrate Eid in the time of the pandemic, Ahod "Alhaj Murad" Ebrahim, chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm), said this year was a difficult time to observe the traditional practices during Ramadan because of the pandemic, and yet Filipino Muslims were able to surpass it.

"The Bangsamoro government, through the Bangsamoro Inter-Agency Task Force, made sure that observing Ramadan will not affect health protocols. We were able to deliver the aid on basic needs and financial help throughout the region, with the help of the different agencies of the government, while health facilities are being constructed," he said in a video message.

Mohagher Igbal, BARMM Minister of Basic, Higher and Technical Education, also said that this year’s Ramadan and its Eid might not be celebrated by the usual congregational prayer and feasting due to the pandemic, but has asked the people "not forget to appreciate the lessons this trial gave us."

"To our Bangsamoro learners, regular schooling is certainly a challenge for now but let us keep a steadfast will towards commitment in learning balance education and reconnecting with the Almighty. For our educators, we hope that this holy month gave you enlightenment towards morally educating the future of the Bangsamoro region, our learners," he said.

He said Eid is not only a time for gatherings and feasts but also a moment when one remembers Allah and thank Him for letting the Muslims experience another Ramadan.

He added that Eid is meant to celebrate all individuals' spiritual achievements and accomplishments that strengthened their faith to Allah.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103783

Covid-19 turns Marawi siege commemoration 'minimalist'

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): Covid-19 turns Marawi siege commemoration 'minimalist'  (By Divina Suson)



MARAWI SIEGE. In 10 minutes, Army soldiers of 103rd Infantry Brigade remember their colleagues who died during the Marawi siege by offering flowers and prayers at 8 a.m. on Saturday (May 23, 2020) inside the headquarters in Kampo Ranao. They commemorated the third anniversary of the siege. (Photo courtesy of 103rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army)

Unlike the past two years, commemorating the anniversary of the Marawi siege this year is different because of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo, 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, led the troops as they remembered “the sacrifices of the fallen heroes who fought hard to liberate Marawi City from the clutches of the violent extremists Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group who attempted to establish a “Wilayat” in the country”.

He was the deputy brigade commander during the siege.

"Despite this coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, we have not and will never forget the heroism displayed by our soldiers during the 2017 Marawi siege. I call on the patriotic spirit of all Meranaos to do their part and help maintain the peace we are enjoying today. We are one in this fight, one in the fight against this terror threat in the province," Cuerpo said Saturday.

In the last two years, the local government units of Marawi and Lanao del Sur and the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) led the commemoration of the siege with various and grand activities.

National government officials attended the events, bringing with them assistance to the internally displaced persons.

In fact, the Marawi Week of Peace was previously celebrated starting a week before May 23.

This year, only 25 soldiers attended the wreath laying at 8 a.m. Saturday, including the two flag bearers and a priest with their face masks on.

Marawi City is still imposing general community quarantine that makes the people’s movement limited. Mass gathering is still prohibited.

Last year, wreath laying ceremony took about 30 minutes including the saying of the prayers to the dead. But this year, it only took the Army soldiers of the 103rd Infantry Brigade 10 minutes to lay wreaths and flowers and recite the prayers at the ‘Heroes Wall’ inside the brigade headquarters in Kampo Ranao.

There were 168 soldiers and police officers and a number of civilians who died in the fight against terrorists during the 153-day Marawi siege.

"Unity is a critical consideration in these trying times as manifested during the Marawi siege where the people and the security sector joined hands in fighting the common enemy. Peace and development can be attained. Nothing is impossible if there is cooperation, understanding, and discipline, among us," Cuerpo added.

"Let the Marawi siege be a reminder to every one of the terror and tragedy caused by the terrorists. Rest assured that your Haribon Brigade will do its best and exert all effort to prevent such tragedy to reoccur and to promote peace and development in the city of Marawi and the province of Lanao del Sur," he said.

Last year, a banquet was served after the wreath laying but this year, the soldiers immediately dispersed.

“We went back to the office and proceed(ed) with our regular office work,” Cuerpo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103782

AFP joins Filipino Muslims in marking end of Ramadan

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): AFP joins Filipino Muslims in marking end of Ramadan (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joins Filipino Muslims as they celebrate Eid’l Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan.

"The AFP joins Filipino Muslims here and abroad in the observance and celebration of a meaningful and inspiring end to the holy month of Ramadan," AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos said in a statement Saturday.

Santos said the AFP also hopes that despite the strict physical distancing measures implemented due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Muslims in the Philippines are able to celebrate this important occasion with their families and friends in the safe and warm confines of their community.

Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid’l Fitr this weekend.

"The AFP hopes that our people take this as an opportunity to draw from our sacrifices the motivation and determination to triumph over the challenges that we are facing today as a nation. May this also fortify the foundations of our faith and the importance of mutual respect and cooperation in this critical time," he said.

Santos added the AFP will remain vigilant to maintain the peace in every community to give our Muslim brothers and sisters the opportunity for a meaningful and peaceful observance of Eid’l Fitr.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103777

BRP Jose Rizal to boost Navy territorial defense mandate

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): BRP Jose Rizal to boost Navy territorial defense mandate (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Jose Rizal (left) meets with BRP Andres Bonifacio off Sta. Cruz Island, Zambales. (Contributed Photo)

The arrival of the Philippine Navy 's first missile-frigate, the prospective BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), will greatly boost the PN's capability in fulfilling its mandate of defending the country's vast territorial.

This, according to Offshore Combat Force head, Commodore Karl Decapia, as the brand-new ship safely anchored off Subic Bay on May 23, or five days after leaving the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 18.

"(Arrival of the BRP Jose Rizal) signals the realization of a modern Navy that is capable of imposing the Navy's territorial defense mandate," he said in a statement late Saturday.

He added that this is now possible as BRP Jose Rizal, and its sister ship BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) that is slated for delivery late this year, is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

Decapia also lauded the Philippine government for standing behind the PN modernization in pursuit of a credible and modern navy.

BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the HHI shipyard in UIsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019 while its sister-ship BRP Antonio Luna, was launched on November 8 of the same year.

The contract for the two ships are placed at PHP16 billion with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

Navy Public Affairs Office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the BRP Jose Rizal exchanged communications via radio with World War II-era corvette BRP Quezon (PS-70) when it first entered Philippine waters on May 21.

At the time, BRP Quezon was deployed and patrolling off Mavulis Island, Batanes, she added.

On May 22, Roxas said Naval Forces Northern Luzon welcomed BRP Jose Rizal by rendering a meeting point procedure with its First Patrol Boat division composed of three high-speed naval craft at the vicinity of Bolinao, Pangasinan.

"Later in the afternoon (May 22) BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) with one Augusta Westland AW- 109 helicopter and C-90 fixed-wing aircraft conducted a meeting procedure with FF-150 along the vicinity of Sta. Cruz, Zambales. It was then escorted by PS-17 to its designated anchorage area (in Subic Bay)," Roxas added.

In the early morning of May 23, the BRP Jose Rizal was accorded the traditional passing honors by BRP Andres Bonifacio and three of the PN's multi-purpose assault craft (MPACs).

Roxas said the event was captured during the fly-by of two naval helicopters – the PN's anti-submarine helicopter, the AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" and an AW-109 "Power" utility helicopter.

While at anchor, the sailing crew will undergo a two-week quarantine in compliance with the strict health protocols being implemented by the Philippine government to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Aboard the ship are 61 PN officers and enlisted personnel along with 23 personnel from HHI and four "owner's representatives".

The technical inspection and acceptance of the frigate shall commence after the quarantine period.

A simple arrival and commissioning ceremony is poised to be conducted on June 19 coinciding with the birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the ship’s namesake.

BRP Jose Rizal has a maximum designed speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles.

It was supposed to be delivered in the last week of April but the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic prompted a reschedule due to travel restrictions as a result of the pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103784

Palace welcomes historic arrival of PH’s 1st missile-capable ship

From the Philippine News Agency (May 24, 2020): Palace welcomes historic arrival of PH’s 1st missile-capable ship (By Azer Parrocha)



BREAKTHROUGH. BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the country’s first missile frigate, arrives in Subic Bay, Zambales on Saturday (May 23, 2020) after a five-day voyage from Ulsan, South Korea. Malacañang on Sunday said the arrival of the missile-capable frigate was a “breakthrough” in the country’s naval force. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

Malacañang on Sunday welcomed the historic arrival of the country’s first missile-frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), as a “breakthrough” in the Philippines’ naval force.

“We consider this a breakthrough in the Philippine Navy’s transformation journey in our goal of building a strong and credible maritime force,” Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

Roque pointed out that the arrival of the missile-capable frigate is a testament to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s commitment to modernize the country’s armed forces.

“This forms part of the national leadership’s initiative to enhance the country’s defense capabilities to secure our seas against current threats,” he said.

In a separate statement, Offshore Combat Force head, Commodore Karl Decapia said the BRP Jose Rizal “signals the realization of a modern Navy that is capable of imposing the Navy's territorial defense mandate.”

BRP Jose Rizal arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales on Saturday (May 23) after a five-day voyage from Ulsan, South Korea.

It was supposed to be delivered in the last week of April but the prevailing coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic prompted a reschedule due to travel restrictions.

The missile-capable frigate is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

It has a maximum designed speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles.

The Navy only has two large missile-armed warships so far in its fleet. The second frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna, is expected to be delivered late this year.

Both are manufactured by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) in South Korea.

While at anchor, the sailing crew will undergo a two-week quarantine in compliance with the strict health protocols being implemented by the Philippine government to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Aboard the ship are 61 PN officers and enlisted personnel along with 23 personnel from HHI and four "owner's representatives".

The technical inspection and acceptance of the frigate shall commence after the quarantine period.

An arrival and commissioning ceremony is poised to be conducted on June 19 coinciding with the birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the ship’s namesake.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1103794

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom sustains focused efforts for peace in Mindanao (Graphic Photos)

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (May 22, 2020):  WestMinCom sustains focused efforts for peace in Mindanao

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City-May 22, 2020

Western Mindanao Command, through all of its joint task forces, sustains its focused and civil military operations to eradicate the different threat groups and win peace in Western and Central Mindanao.

From May 11 to 21, 2020, the command recorded 1 remarkable engagement with the communist terrorist group (CTG) and 3 with the local terrorist group (LTG) which resulted in the neutralization of 2 CTs and 6 LTs.

Likewise, eleven high-powered and one low-powered firearms were recovered during tactical and joint law enforcement operations while seven high-powered and one low-powered firearms were handed over to the government forces.

While conducting combat patrol, troops of the 53rd Infantry Battalion encountered the members of the Communist Terrorist Group in Sitio Pisyo, Barangay Balonai, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur at 11:05am, May 11, 2020.

While scouring the area of engagement, troops recovered two enemy cadavers, two AK47, and one backpack.

Meanwhile, three local terrorists were neutralized and one high-powered firearm was seized in the hour-long offensives launched by the military in Sitio Tubig Paliya, Danag, Patikul, Sulu on May 16.

On May 18, soldiers of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion ferociously fought the group of Saga Indong, Mahdi Adam, and alias Zan under Karialan faction in Barangay Lower Salbu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan which resulted in the neutralization of two enemies, identified as Salamat Kutin, brother of alias Zan, and Nasruden Akmad. Two more fighters, identified as alias Amad and Saudi, incurred gunshot wounds.

In addition, another local terrorist was neutralized in a brief gunfight in Barangay Sapakan, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao on May 20.

Troops also recovered two improvised explosives and components, three magazines, and a half sack of IED fertilizer.

In the conduct of law enforcement support operations, ground units took part in two joint operations to neutralize drug personalities.

Sachets of shabu and firearms were seized from two drug personalities nabbed by joint elements of the 34th Infantry Battalion, PDEA Regional Office 12 Cotabato Provincial Office, PDEA Regional Office BARMM, and Alamada Municipal Police Station in Sitio Maracabac, Barangay Guiling, Alamada, North Cotabato at 5 in the morning, May 13, 2020.

Seized from Ali Adapan Usman Selangan and Pilong Selangan were two pieces large transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu with an estimated weight of 100 grams and valued at Php680,000.00; one Php1,000.00 bill marked money on top of 94 pieces boodle money; four caliber 5.56 M16 rifles; three Garand rifles; one 7.62 M14 rifle; one M14 magazine; four M16 Short magazine; three Garand clips; twenty-four rounds Cal. 30 ammunition; three rounds 7.62 ammunition; twenty rounds 5.56 ammunition; one improvised M79 grenade launcher with one ammunition; four Baofeng handheld radio; and one Qnet cellular phone.

Another drug personality was apprehended by joint elements of the 39th Marine Company, Marine Battalion Landing Team 9 and Sitangkai Municipal Police Station in Barangay Poblacion, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi on May 19, 2020.

Seized from Ruben Kalum were 13 sachets of white crystalline substance believed to be shabu weighing 50.9 grams and with an estimated value of Php75, 000.00.

Also recovered by the troops were: 2 heat sealed plastic straw containing white crystalline substance amounting to Php400.00; one Digital Scale; one Improvised Tooter; two rolled aluminum foil; one black pouch; one orange lighter; one Cal. 45 (Armscor); and one magazine for Cal. 45 pistol with 7 rounds of ammunitions.

WestMinCom’s active participation in the peace mechanisms of the government is evident in its facilitation of rido settlement, handing-over of loose firearms, and implementation of livelihood programs for rebel returnees.

The military's 103rd Infantry Brigade facilitated the rido/family feud settlement between the Alulong and Bantuas Clans in Bacolod-Kalawi, Lanao del Sur on May 14, 2020.

The two clans signed pact to settle all their disputes.

To show their sincerity to the agreement, the Alulong clan turned over two M16A1, one M653 carbine, and one M1 carbine.

Meanwhile, two high-powered and one low-powered firearms were handed over to the military in Barangay Dilimbayan, Maguing, Lanao del Sur on May 19, 2020.

The handing over was facilitated by the 49th Infantry Battalion through the efforts of Barangay Dilimbayan Chairman Jailanie Pangandag and Mayor Fajad Molok of the municipality of Maguing.

Handed over were one 5.56mm ELISCO M16A1 rifle, one homemade rocket-propelled grenade launcher, one cal .9mm Ingram Sub Machinegun, and assorted ammunitions.

The handing over of firearms highlighted the citizen’s expression of sincere participation in the government’s campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms, illegal drugs, and other unlawful activities.

Additionally, one M16 Rifle was handed over by Mojahid Sensi y Esmael to the troops of the 44th Infantry Battalion at the unit’s headquarters in Barangay Lower Baluran, Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay Province at 5:25 p.m., May 19, 2020.

Said M16 rifle was owned by his brother Samson Sensi y Mangubat who is a member of the Kiang Balimbingan Group.

The armed forces exist to secure and protect the people and the state. WestMinCom ensures the welfare of its personnel and supports the former rebels in their reintegration.

WestMinCom in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Officers’ Ladies Club donated 9 boxes of Ferrous Sulfate+Folic Acid to aid female soldiers of all units under the command and control of WestMinCom.

Likewise, the 601st Infantry Brigade facilitated the distribution of livelihood assistance from the provincial government of Maguindanao to 68 former rebels on May 21.

Said former rebels surrendered to the 7th and 33rd Infantry Battalions from January to April 2020.

“The stalwart men and women of the Western Mindanao Command remains resolute in accomplishing all mandated tasks and in supporting other agencies to pave the way for peace, solidarity, and sustainable development in our area of operation,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom Commander.

“Furthermore, our support to the government in the fight against the corona virus disease never falters. We are here to provide all sorts of assistance until we overcome this contagion,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

“Team WestMinCom is never above nor below you, but always beside you,” the living hero concluded.

#afpyoucantrust
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