Wednesday, November 11, 2020

CPP/Ang Bayan: New level of oppression against Moros

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): New level of oppression against Moros

The Moro people are facing a new level of national oppression with the recent implementation of the Anti-Terrorism Law (ATL) by the Duterte regime. Just a day after the Department of Justice issued the implementing rules and regulations for the said law, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Gen. Gilbert Gapay declared that madrasas (Islamic schools) are being used for recruiting terrorists.

Moro activists have long been wary of the the direct impact of the ATL to their communities. On August 7, Moro leaders along with indigenous peoples, filed the 16th petition against the ATL. According to Amirah Lidasan of the Moro-Christian People’s Alliance, the law will certainly be utilized against the Moros who have long been stereotyped by the reactionary state as terrorists. She cited the case of Moros who were arrested and accused of being bombmakers or terrorists in the 2000s just because their names are close or similar to identified Abu Sayyaf members. Their case is still pending in court and majority of them have been under detention for almost two decades already.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/new-level-of-oppression-against-moros/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Marawi liberation is a sham

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): Marawi liberation is a sham

There is no reason to celebrate the third anniversary of the so-called “liberation” of Marawi. This was the message of Moros during the Duterte regime’s commemoration of the said occasion last October 17. The plight of Moros perists as they are still unable to return to the city.

“There is no real liberation to speak of,” said Drieza Lininding, chairperson of the Moro Consensus Group. “Most of us have not been allowed to return to our homes and rebuild our lives,” he added. According to the latest report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, approximately 126,775 residents are still in evacuation centers and in need of protection and support during the pandemic.

One of the major problems faced by evacuees is the absence of adequate supply of water which is key to maintaining personal hygiene. The are also no clinics or sources of free or cheap medicines in evacuation centers. Majority of evacuees are jobless and mainly rely on limited humanitarian aid given them by various organizations. In addition, there are thousands of displaced Maranaos who are currently living with their relatives in nearby provinces and various areas across the country.

Residents are also clueless as to how the regime spent about ₱70-billion allocated for the reconstruction of Marawi and more than ₱40 billion in loan and aid from other countries received since 2017. The regime’s neglect and disregard to the evacuees’ plight to return to their communities was further exposed in a report published by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority last August 26. The report proved that the regime’s relocation plan is not going anywhere. Ravaged houses are yet to be rebuilt, and residents are yet to compensated for their properties which have been destroyed. Electricity lines and water pipelines are yet to be installed in 24 barangays across the city which were pulverized by the military siege and indiscriminate aerial bombardment. Schools are yet to be built, and a comprehensive livelihood program for evacuees is yet to be devised.

Instead of addressing the said issues, the regime prioritized the construction of road systems in across the city. This includes the Marawi Transcentral Road, a project under Duterte’s grandiose Build, Build, Build infrastructure program. This was funded using a ₱970-million loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. On top of this, the regime is also railroading the construction of a new ₱400-million military camp in Barangay Kapantaran where the Marawi City Hall used to stand. The massive funding for these projects is a huge insult to Maranaos who are denied their right to abode and a decent life.

“Marawi is made up of its residents not public buildings,” Liningding stressed. He said that the regime’s efforts will amount to nothing without addressing the Maranao people’s call to return to their communities.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/marawi-liberation-is-a-sham/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Parlade, the fascist troll

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): Parlade, the fascist troll

Before gaining notoriety as Angel Locsin’s obsessive red-tagger, Antonio Parlade was known as the anti-peace Army spokesperson dismissed in 2011. He went against official policy when he called for the suspension of the government’s ceasefire with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). He also openly objected to the court-ordered release of health workers known as the Morong 43.

After being kicked from his job, he was assigned to a “support unit” in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Headquarters. He was sent to the US for further military studies. He served as commander of the 203rd IBde in Mindoro in 2018. Before the year was out, he was promoted to AFP assistant deputy chief-of-staff for operations or J3.

He became deputy chief to the AFP’s Civil-Military Operations or J7 in 2019. As one of the most fanatic of the fascists, he became part of the group which travelled around Europe to slander groups such as the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines and Ibon Foundation and maliciously link them to the Europeansroundly rebuffe their lies.

Parlade is tireless in lying about the CPP and the NPA devouring its own children to detract attention from state killings of prominent activists such as Randy Malayao and Randy Echanis. He has no qualms of justifying killings of human rights defenders such as Zara Alvarez claiming that they are “NPA members anyway.”

True to being a troll, Parlade relentlessly spew slander, mockery and baseless accusations which are repeated in social media and generate fake posts, videos and quotes. HIs antics are applauded in AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) official and sponsored accounts, as well as in state-funded troll farms.

In showing that no trick is too ridiculous or too vile, Parlade became a “key person,” eventually graduating to “spokesperson,” of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. On January 17, he replaced Gilbert Gapay as commander of the AFP’s Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) which has operational jurisdiction over Bicol and Calabarzon. Gapay went on to become Philippine Army chief in December 2019, then AFP chief of staff in August 3. Parlade is sucking up to the most fascist military officials in the hopes of following Gapay’s footsteps.

Unlike other Duterte trolls, Parlade has two infantry divisions, a fleet of naval forces and an Air Force Tactical Operations Wing to carry out state terrorism at his disposal. Under his command, military units under the SOLCOM go beyond red-tagging of activists, human rights defenders, media personalities, peasants and even members of the judiciary. Army units, assisted by police personnel, perpetrate human rights violations and crimes against the people with impunity.

Based on Ang Bayan’s monitor, there are at least 190 victims of human rights abuses in Bicol and 1,357 in Calabarzon from January to October 31. Most of these cases were perpetuated by SOLCOM units. These incidents range from extrajudicial killings (25 victims), unjust arrests and detentions (147), coercion (16), destruction of property (5), food and economic blockade (1200), illegal search and seizure (41), physical assault (13) to threat, harassment and intimidation (91), among others. Majority of the victims are farmworkers and peasants in the countryside, and workers in enclaves accused by the military as NPA members.

This include the unjust arrest of four regional leaders of progressive organizations in Bicol.

Last October 20, Camarines Sur Regional Trial Court Branch 56 Judge Jeaneth Gaminde San Joaquin narrowly escaped death when she, along with her aide, were shot at by motorcycle-riding gunmen. San Joaquin, who signed the warrant of arrest of Jenelyn Caballero, also ordered her release a few days later after determining that the case was weak. She did so at the risk of earning the ire of Parlade who brandishes his antagonism against judges who allow activists to exercise their legal rights.

In April, SOLCOM and PNP units presented 16 “NPA surrenderees” who turned out to be workers of the Coca Cola plant in Laguna who were red-tagged, threatened and brought to a military camp.

In Quezon, military agents attempted murder of Karapatan Quezon Secretary-General Genelyn Dichoso on June 1. In Laguna, two peasants were murdered by SOLCOM forces in Oriental Mindoro on January. In Masbate and Albay Norte, SOLCOM soldiers killed four barangay officials and a rice trader last September.

Ang Bayan also collated reports of 331 counterinsurgency operations initiated by units under Parlade’s command from January to October. These operations covered 163 barangays in 46 towns across the Bicol region and 128 barangays in 31 towns across Southern Tagalog.

These operations include the strafing incident involving 49th IB soldiers who indiscriminately fired their weapons near a school in Barangay Oma-oma in Ligao City on September 25, resulting in the forcible evacuation of teachers who were preparing for the opening of classes.

Parlade deliberately violated GRP President Duterte’s declaration of Covid-19 ceasefire from March 19 to April 30. Combat and psychological operations were highest in Southern Tagalog (138 operations) and Bicol (94) during the said period. These operations include SOLCOM’s successive raids against NPA units in Barangay Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal, and in Mulanay and Gumaca Quezon from March 28 to April 1.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/parlade-the-fascist-troll/

CPP/Ang Bayan: State forces arrest 8 red-tagging victims

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): State forces arrest 8 red-tagging victims

Eight activists and members of organizations maliciously linked by National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to the revolutionary armed movement were successively arrested by state forces during the last week of October.

Joint elements of the Special Action Force and 503rd IBde arrested woman leader Beatrice Belen at her house in Barangay Uma, Lubuagan, Kalinga, at around 4 a.m. on October 25. Belen is an Igorot and a member of the Advisory Council of the local chapter of Innabuyog in Kalinga. Innabuyog is a member-organization of Gabriela.

Operatives ransacked Belen’s house and planted it with guns and explosives to justify the arrest. She is currently detained at the the Tabuk City Jail. The Cordillera Human Rights Alliance reported that Belen was initially detained in a prison cell together with male detainees. She was accused of participating in a raid by Red fighters against a CAFGU detachment in the same barangay in 2018.

On the same day, five members of Pawis, a member-organization of Masipag which participates in the bungkalan (collective land cultivation) campaign of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), were arrested by the police in Barangay San Juan, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. They are among the 56 Pawis members who were ordered to be arrested by Bacolod RTC Branch 54 Judge Eduardo Sayson for cultivating a portion of the 1000-hectare property being claimed by landlords from the Yusay family. Four of those who were served warrants have long been dead. According to Pawis, the legal harassment only aims to suppress their campaign for genuine land distribution.

Two days earlier at around 4 a.m., joint elements of the military and police arrested farmer Danilo Tabuno at his house in Barangay Sula, San Jose, Tarlac. Tabuno is a member of the Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon, the regional chapter of KMP in Central Luzon. The operatives ransacked his house and planted there firearms, ammunition and fake extortion letters which were used as evidence to justify the arrest. Tabuno was temporarily released after posting a bail of ₱100,000.

On October 29, student activist Irix Romere was reportedly brought to two military camps by his relatives who have links with state forces. She was forcibly brought to Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City for interrogation, and afterwards, to a military base in Clark, Pampanga. This harassment clearly aims to intimidate her and her fellow student activists. Romero is a member of the local chapter of the Student Christian Movement of the Philippines in Bulacan State University.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/state-forces-arrest-8-red-tagging-victims/

CPP/Ang Bayan: DOJ, prosecutor dismiss cases against activists

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): DOJ, prosecutor dismiss cases against activists

The Department of Justice (DOJ) dropped on October 15 the kidnapping case against Kabataan Partylist Rep. Sarah Elago, Bayan Muna chairman Neri Colmenares, Jose Maria Sison and nine other leaders of Anakbayan. The said case was filed by the police and Relissa Lucena, in connivance with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, in connection to the malicious allegation that the respondents are “recruiting” the youth to become members of the New People’s Army. The DOJ said that there is no sufficient evidence to prove that the respondents kidnapped Relissa’s 19-year old daughter Alicia, and recruited to join the armed move­ment.

The prosecutor of Iloilo City also dismissed on October 19 three of the four cases filed by the police against 42 activists in May due to lack of evidence. The were charged with illegal assembly and two other violations of lockdown protocols for staging a rally last May 1 to demand justice over the killing of regional mass leader Jory Porquia.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/doj-prosecutor-dismiss-cases-against-activists/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Abuses caused by FMOs in Su­ri­gao

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): Abuses caused by FMOs in Su­ri­gao

Focused military operations mounted by various units under the 4th ID have resulted in a spate of attacks against Lumads and peasants in Surigao del Sur. Its elements went on rampage, notably after being hit by an ambush launched by Red fighters.

On October 3, three farmers were killed by elements of the 36th IB and who were subsequently presented as members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Tan­dag City. The remains of Maco Ca­ga­ran Mai­tom, 50, Fred­die Mi­ya­rez Za­mo­ra, 42 and Pau­li­no Pe­rez Mai­tom Jr., 23, residents of Ba­ra­ngay Pa­ngi, were riddled with bullets.

The soldiers perpetrated the crime after encountering an NPA unit in the mountatious area of the city. The three farmers were working in their farms away from the site of the encounter when they were sighted and killed by soldiers.

In San Agus­tin, elements of the 3rd Special Forces Bat­ta­li­on strafed the houses of residents of Sitio Mag­ka­hu­naw, Bu­hi­san last October 28. Bullets almost hit two children.

On October 27, the 4th ID bombed the mountainous portion of Ma­ri­ha­tag town near communities at Sit­io Mag­ka­hu­naw, Ba­ra­ngay Bu­hi­san, San Agus­tin; and Km. 16 and Han-a­yan in Dia­ta­gon for five hours. Helicopters and drones were utilized during the attack. This prompted residents to evacuate from the aforementioned communities. The indiscriminate bombing destroyed trees and ravaged the forest which serve as Lumad’s primary source of food livelihood. This is the fifth incident of aerial bombardment in the province since May.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and 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/2020/11/07/abuses-caused-by-fmos-in-surigao/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA ambushes notorious military unit in Surigao

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 7, 2020): NPA ambushes notorious military unit in Surigao

The New People’s Army-Su­ri­gao del Sur (NPA-SDS) mounted a successful ambush against the 3rd Special Forces Bat­ta­li­on at Km. 14, Ba­ra­ngay Dia­ta­gon, Lia­nga, Su­ri­gao del Sur on October 31. Three soldiers were wounded in the offensive. NPA-SDS spokesperson Ka San­da­ra Sid­la­kan reported that Red fighters were able to seize three M16 rifles, and vests with ammunition.

On October 28, the NPA-SDS arrested 26th IB trooper PFC Ray­mond T. Tajo­ne­ra and another military asset identified only as Qui­ño­nez in San Miguel town. Based on initial reports, Tajo­ne­ra is a team leader of a CAFGU Active Auxil­iary (CAA) unit which serves as a mercenary force of a mining company owned by a warlord named Jas­mi­ne Aceve­do. The unit was deployed in the area to secure the 26th IB’s commander share of profit from the mining operation.

Ca­ma­ri­nes Sur. The-West Ca­ma­ri­nes Sur (Norben Gruta Command) reported on October 22 its ambush against attacking 9th IB troopers in Ba­ra­ngay Tib­le, Lu­pi, Ca­ma­ri­nes Sur. The NPA were able to seize two firearms and 15 backpacks filled with various military matériel.

Capiz. The NPA-Central Panay blasted operating 12th IB troopers in Barangay Naya­wan, Tapaz, Capiz on October 22, at around 4 p.m. One soldier was killed and four others were wounded. The said unit is notorious for spreading terror in the towns of Capiz and Iloilo under the guise of Retooled Community Support Program operations.

Negros Occidental. The NPA-Negros conducted two successive tactical offensives against operating troopers of the 62nd IB in Barangay Sandayao, Guilhulngan City on November 4. Red fighters first ambushed the soldiers at Sitio Inangaw at around 3 p.m., followed by an attack at Sitio Matal-e at 7 p.m. Two soldiers were killed and many others were wounded.

In retaliation, soldiers murdered farmer Reo Jacaba, a resident of the adjacent Barangay Macagahay in Moises Padilla whom they have presented as a member of the NPA.

[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/2020/11/07/npa-ambushes-notorious-military-unit-in-surigao/

CPP/CIO: Gen. Sinas’ promotion as PNP chief is a new high in criminal impunity

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 9, 2020): Gen. Sinas’ promotion as PNP chief is a new high in criminal impunity

MARCO VALBUENA
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 09, 2020



Duterte’s appointment of loyalist Gen. Debold Sinas as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief pulls the fascist institution to lowest depths of corruption and moral depredation. Awarding Sinas’ fascism and abuse of power outrages the people, incites greater disgust of the police and stokes further discord within it.

His promotion marks another high in criminal impunity under Duterte. It further emboldens state forces to commit more abuses and atrocities against the people.

The Filipino people are incensed over Gen. Sinas’ appointment despite earning public notoriety for throwing a birthday party which violated the Covid-19 lockdown protocols rigidly implemented by the police. Sinas and his men went unpunished while more than a hundred thousand ordinary citizens were arrested without exception, with a few thousands still in jail.

Gen. Sinas’ Covid-19 mañanita is, however, the least of his transgressions.

He was also behind the police’s high-handed and inhumane treatment toward political detainee Reina Mae Nasino during the wake and burial of her three-month old daughter last month. He was also behind the mass arrest of around 50 activists in Bacolod City and the police raid at the office of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan in November 2019, where Nasino was arrested. He was reported to have personally talked to Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert who issued to questionable search warrants.

Let us not forget his grave crimes against the people during his stint as Central Visayas chief of police in 2019. He directed the bloody counterinsurgency campaigns Oplan Sauron 1 and 2, and Oplan Bran Stark which resulted in the mass killing of 37 red-tagged farmers and local personalities including a barangay captain, city councilor, former mayor, a local official of the Department of Education, and a lawyer.

The vilest crimes in this Sinas-led killing spree include the killing of peasant and transport leader Franklin Lariosa who was summarily executed by policemen in front of his 4-year old child in Barangay Talalac, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental on March 29, 2019; and the killing of civilian Marlon Ocampo and his one-year old son, Marjon, in Barangay San Jose in the same town on July 26, 2019.

Sinas’ hands are drenched in the blood of the toiling masses. It is only just for the people to condemn Sinas’ appointment and crimes, raise their voices in protest and demand an end to police and military impunity in the country.

https://cpp.ph/statements/gen-sinas-promotion-as-pnp-chief-is-a-new-high-in-criminal-impunity/

CPP/NDF-Southern Tagalog: Kondenahin ang paghirang ni Duterte kay General Debold “Mañanita” Sinas bilang bagong pinuno ng Philippine National Police (PNP)

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 9, 2020): Kondenahin ang paghirang ni Duterte kay General Debold “Mañanita” Sinas bilang bagong pinuno ng Philippine National Police (PNP)

PATNUBAY DE GUIASPOKESPERSON
NDF-SOUTHERN TAGALOG
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 09, 2020



Dapat na malakas na kondenahin ng sambayanan ang pagtatalaga ni Rodrigo Duterte kay Gen. Debold Sinas bilang bagong pinuno ng PNP. Si Sinas ay pamoso sa walang-habas na pag-aboso at paglabag sa karapatang tao ng mamamayan at naging bantog sa mga madugong kampanya ng panunupil sa mga lider at kasapi ng mga progresibong organisasyon ng mamamayan sa Negros at NCR bago pa nahirang sa pinakamataas na pwesto sa PNP.

Ang pagtalaga ni Rodrigo Duterte kay Sinas bilang hepe ng PNP ay patunay ng kanyang maitim na pakana na ipwesto ang mga matatapat at pinakasagad-saring pasista sa burukratiko-militar na makinarya ng estado ng mga malalaking kumprador-panginoong maylupa’t burukrata—upang ilatag ang kundisyon sa lantarang paghaharing militar at pagpapalawig ng paghahari ng kanyang angkan.

May matibay na batayan at dahilan ang sambayanang Pilipino na magsalita at kumilos upang tutulan at mariing batikusin si Duterte sa pagtatalaga niya kay General “Mañanita” Sinas bilang bagong hepe PNP kapalit ng bagong kareretirong si General Camilo Cascolan. Labis silang nangangamba at natatakot sa maaaring kahantungan ng kanilang buhay sa kamay ng mga pulis ngayong si General Sinas na ang bagong pinuno ng PNP na kilala sa pagiging berdugo, kriminal, mamamatay-tao at pusakal na nilalapastangan ang karapatang pantao at sibil ng mamamayan.

Nagpupuyos ang galit ng mga mamamayan sa rehiyong Timog Katagalugan sa pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte sa pagtatalaga na naman ng isang pusakal, berdugo, mamamatay-tao at talamak na human rights violators sa makapangyarihang pusisyon sa PNP sa katauhan ni General “Mañanita” Sinas. Walang kahihiyan na pinili pa rin ni Duterte si General Sinas sa kabila na may hinaharap itong kabit-kabit na kasong administratibo at kriminal, kasama ang 18 pang matataas na opisyal ng National Capital Region Police Office nang magsagawa ito ng birthday party sa kaarawan ni General Sinas noong Mayo, 2020 na nilabag ang mga pinaiiral na health protocol sa ilaim ng pandemya. Binalewala ni Duterte ang kaso ni General Sinas at mas pinahalagahan ang personal na katapatan nito sa kanya bilang maaasahang asong tagasunod na mahigpit na magpapatupad ng kanyang mga anti-mamamayan at anti-demokratikong batas at kautusan.

Matatandaan na malawakang binatikos ng taumbayan ang lantarang paglabag ni General Sinas nang magsagawa ito ng birthday party para ipagdiriwang ang kanyang kaarawan noong Mayo 3, 2020. Itinanggi niyang “birthday party” ang kanilang isinagawa kundi isang “mañanita” bilang paraan ng pagbati sa kanyang kaarawan. Walang naniwala sa kanyang mga palusot dahil sa mga larawan na inilabas ng kanyang sariling opisina sa social media sa naganap na birthday party. Mula noon binansagan na siya bilang General “Mañanita” Sinas.

Nakilala at naging bantog si General Sinas, hindi dahil sa kanyang husay at integridad bilang opisyal ng PNP, kundi sa kanyang pagiging berdugo, mamamatay tao at talamak na human rights violator lalo na noong hawakan niya ang pamununo sa PNP Region 7 mula Hulyo 2018 hanggang Oktubre 2019 bago maitalaga at maging pinuno naman siya ng PNP-National Capital Region o PNP-NCR.

Si General “Mañanita” Sinas bilang PNP-Region 7 ang pangunahing nagpatupad sa Synchronized Enhanced Managing Police Operation (SEMPO) at Oplan Sauron at Memorandum Circular No. 32 (MO 32) na inilabas ng Malacañang noong Nobyembre 22, 2018 na pangunahing pinuntirya ang mga aktitibista, mga progresibong indibidwal, organisyon at mga kilalang kritiko ng gubyernong Duterte sa mga rehiyon ng Samar, Bikol at Isla ng Negros.

Ilang buwan lamang matapos ilabas ang MO 32, sa ilalim ng pamununo ni General Sinas, noong Abril 3, 2019, 14 na magsasaka sa Negros Oriental ang walang awang pinagpapaslang ng mga elemento ng PNP at AFP alinsunod sa pinatutupad na SEMPO at Oplan Sauron.

Ngunit, hindi pa man nailalabas ang MO No. 32, sa panahon ng panununkulan ni General Sinas bilang hepe ng PNP-Region 7, laganap na ang mga karahasan sa Central Visayas ng AFP at PNP, lalo na Isla ng Negros. Noong Oktubre 2018, siyam (9) na magsasaka na kabilang sa National Federation of Sugar Workers-Negros ang minasaker ng mga armadong ahente ng estado. Sa sumunod na buwan ay pinaslang naman si Atty Benjamin Ramos, ang abogado ng mga biktimang magsasaka at isang human rights lawyer at kasaping tagapagtatagang National Union of People’s Lawyer.

Hindi pa dito nagtapos ang mga karumal dumal na krimen na ginawa nina General Sinas habang siya ang pinuno ng PNP-Region 7. Sunod-sunod pa ang mga extra judicial killings (ejk) sa Isla ng Negros kung saan ang mga biktima ay nakaranas muna ng red-tagging at terrorist-labelling. Sinundan ito ng sunod-sunod at maramihang mga pag-aresto at pagpapakulong sa mga aktibista at lider ng mga progresibong organisasyon sa Negros Occidental at Negros Oriental batay sa mga gawa-gawang kaso.

Si General Sinas din ang pangunahing tao ni Duterte na nagpatuloy sa madugong gyera nito laban sa iligal na droga sa Central Visayas. Ayon sa Commission on Human Rights (CHR) sa inilabas nitong pahayag noong Pebrero 2019, sa panahon ni Sinas, biglang lumobo ang mga hindi nareresolbang mga kaso ng pagpatay, kung saaan ang daan-daang mga biktima ay pinaghihinalaang may kaugnayan sa pagbebenta ng iligal na droga. Dagdag pa ng CHR, sa panahon ni Sinas, ang Central Visayas ang ika-apat sa buong bansa na may pinakamaraming mga napapatay na may kaugnayan sa droga.

Sa pagkatalaga kay General Debold “Mañanita” Sinas bilang pinuno ng PNP, minsan pang pinatunayan ni Duterte na hindi ang pagkakaroon ng malinis na rekord at integridad ang pangunahing pinagbabatayan ng kanyang paghirang sa mga pinuno ng AFP at PNP. Personal na katapatan sa kanya at hindi sa sinumpaang tungkulin sa reaksyunaryong konstitusyon ang mahalaga kay Duterte sa mga hihiranging pinuno ng AFP at PNP at sa iba pang instrumentalidad ng panunupil at panlilinlang ng estado. Pinipili ni Duterte ang opisyal na magiging matapat na utusang aso sa pagpapatahimik sa mga itinuturing niyang kaaway ng estado. Inilalagay niya sa pinakamataas na katungkulan sa AFP at PNP ang mga maaasahan na magtatanggol sa interes ng lokal na naghaharing uri at among imperyalista. Para kay Duterte ang pagiging brutal, berdugo, mamamatay tao at mga walang pakundangan sa paglabag sa karapatang pantao ang pinakamataas na kwalipikasyon sa mga magiging pinuno ng AFP at PNP.

Ang masahol at karumal-dumal na mga pagpatay at track record ni General “Mañanita” Sinas ang nagbigay daan para hirangin siya ni Duterte bilang bagong hepe ng PNP. Si General Sinas ay pasok na pasok sa pamantayan ni Duterte dahil kawangis niya ang pagkatao nito.

Kung may General “Mañanita” Sinas ang PNP, mayroong General “Red-Tagger” Antonio Parlade, Jr naman ang AFP. Hindi malayong hirangin din ni Duterte si General Parlade bilang kasunod na hepe ng AFP. Hamak na mas matindi kung magbuga ng lason, brutalidad at pagiging kriminal na mamamatay tao si General “Red-Tagger” Parlade kumpara kay General “Mañanita” Sinas.

Ang pagkakahirang ni Duterte kay General “Mañanita” Sinas ay isa na naman sa marami niyang nagawang kapalpakan, kahihiyan at kasalanan sa bayan. Dapat puspusang magpunyagi ang sambayanang Pilipino sa paglaban at pagsusulong ng iba’t ibang anyo ng pakikibaka para ibagsak ang pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte. Hangga’t nasa kapangyarihan ang traydor, tiraniko, inutil, pabaya at kriminal na si Duterte, marami pa itong magagawang kasalanan sa bayan at lalong maglalagay sa matinding kahirapan at krisis ang sambayanang Pilipino. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/kondenahin-ang-paghirang-ni-duterte-kay-general-debold-mananita-sinas-bilang-bagong-pinuno-ng-philippine-national-police-pnp/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: NDF – Negros strongly denounces Debold Sinas’ promotion as PNP Chief

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 9, 2020): NDF – Negros strongly denounces Debold Sinas’ promotion as PNP Chief

BAYANI OBRERO
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-NEGROS ISLAND
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 09, 2020



The National Democratic Front – Negros stongly slams US-Duterte regime’s traitorous act of appointing the butcher and murderer Debold Sinas as the new PNP chief.

“We are no longer surprised that the butcher Duterte will reward another loyal butcher with promotion. Duterte coddles power-hungry and bloodthirsty lapdogs as he continues to unleash terror against the people,” Ka Bayani Obrero NDF-Negros states.

The people of Negros will always remember Sinas as a gross human rights violator. During his stint as PNP Regional Director of Central Visayas, drug-related killings spiked as well as police brutality. He will be remembered as the man behind the Synchronized Enhanced Management of Police Operations (SEMPO) or Oplan Sauron 1 and 2 which claimed the lives of 21 Negros peasants and numerous victims of illegal arrests on fabricated charges. Police claimed they were serving warrants to alleged drug dealers and shot them when they resisted (the classic “nanlaban” explanation). However, when the victims’ families denied the police’s claims they switched to claiming that they were members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA). He also orchestrated Operation Branstark resulting to the series of killings of lawyer, educators, public officials, peasants and even a 1-year old baby which made Negros as the regime’s “killing fields”.

“Debold Sinas leaves a trail of destruction wherever he goes. The blood of the countless victims reeks on Sinas’ hands. Appointing him as new PNP Chief is adding salt to the injured families and kins of victims. The cries for justice and accountability will remain unanswered under the Duterte regime,” Ka Bayani Obrero added.

As Director of NCRPO, he made headlines as the mananita general who violated quarantine protocols. Instead of being persecuted, Sinas walked away scot-free despite the public’s outrage. Yet, he used his iron fist to quarantine violators making the lives of Metro Manila residents even harder. And following his modus operandi in Negros, Sinas engineered the raids of offices of progressive organizations in Metro Manila. Five activists were charged with trumped-up cases, including urban poor activist Reina Mae Nasino.

“Debold Sinas’ bloody track record is exactly why he got fascist Duterte’s nod of approval. The NDF – Negros stands with the Filipino people in denouncing this outrageous move of making Sinas as the new PNP chief. The culture of killings and impunity is sure to continue with severity with Sinas at the helm. Now more than ever, we must unite and collectively resist to end Duterte’s reign of terror,” ended Ka Bayani Obrero.

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-negros-strongly-denounces-debold-sinas-promotion-as-pnp-chief/

CPP/NDF-EV: NDF-EV says AFP using captive minor to hatch rape allegations against NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 9, 2020):
NDF-EV says AFP using captive minor to hatch rape allegations against NPA

NDF-EASTERN VISAYAS
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 09, 2020



The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas condemned officials of the Armed
Forces of the Philippines for using a minor under detention to hatch up
allegations of rape against the New People’s Army.

The NDF-EV issued the statement after reports that a rape complaint against a
supposed leader of the NPA in Leyte was filed before the provincial
prosecutor’s office. Earlier, the 802nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army
published an open letter supposedly seeking assistance in behalf of the minor.

Citing reports from the NPA in Leyte, the NDF-EV said no such incident of rape
occurred.

“The NPA’s principles inculcate respect for women and recognition of equal
rights,” it said. “It has strict rules of discipline governing the actions of
its fighters.”

“We condemn the AFP for manipulating the minor as part of their recent
propaganda offensive against the NPA,” added the NDF-EV. The minor and her
20-year sister are being detained in the headquarters of the 802nd IBde in
Ormoc City.

“They are held captives, kept away from their family, and are being used for the AFP’s anti-NPA PR campaign.

They are under duress and do not have any choice but to cooperate with the military’s schemes,” added the NDF-EV.

“We urge the human rights community to look into the case of the minor and her
sister, assist their safe return to their family and extend to them legal representation.”

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-ev-says-afp-using-captive-minor-to-hatch-rape-allegations-against-npa/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: NDF-Bikol sa muling pagbubukas ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa West Philippine Sea para sa foreign exploration

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 9, 2020):
NDF-Bikol sa muling pagbubukas ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa West Philippine Sea para sa foreign exploration

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 09, 2020



Pugad ng mga taksil ang Malacañang! Tahasang pinababayaan ng rehimeng US-Duterte na nakabuyangyang ang isa sa pinag-aagawang teritoryo ng Pilipinas para sa panghihimasok ng mga dayuhan. Ipinagpapalit ni Duterte ang soberanya ng bansa para sa suporta ng mga imperyalista at kapitalistang bansa sa kanyang diktadura. Tila isang malaking makinang pinaghahati-hatian ang mga pyesa kung ipamigay ng papet na rehimen ang kalupaan ng bansa para sa mga dambuhalang proyekto ng mga dayuhan at lokal na naghaharing-uri.

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-bikol-sa-muling-pagbubukas-ng-rehimeng-us-duterte-sa-west-philippine-sea-para-sa-foreign-exploration/

CPP: On the defeat of Donald Trump in the US presidential elections

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 8, 2020): On the defeat of Donald Trump in the US presidential elections

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
NOVEMBER 08, 2020



The American people deserve praises for voting against US President Donald Trump in the recently concluded presidential elections and preventing another four years of Trumpian fascism, militarism, racism, misogyny and bigotry. While the electoral contest was tight, it saw the defeat of a sitting president. Any attempt by Trump to question and overturn the results through legal maneuver will surely be met with greater resistance.

The elections was carried out amid widespread criticism of the Trump government’s disregard and response to the Covid-19 pandemic which has resulted in large numbers of deaths and infections among the American people. He implemented economic policies that promoted tax cuts and further concentration of wealth in the hands of monopoly capitalists and causing millions of working-class Americans to suffer widespread joblessness, low wages, lack of access to public services, indebtedness, homelessness and other social ills.

Under Trump, US imperialist militarism and aggression intensified. He continued to employ and expand economic sanctions against countries asserting independence. He expanded the US “war on terror” to push US military aggression. He ordered armed strikes in Iraq. He supported resurgence in production of nuclear weapons. He aggressively pushed for sales of US weapons to oppressive regimes. He walked back on US commitments against the proliferation of nuclear weapons, ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles and contact-detonated mines, as well as to the Paris Agreement on climate change.

US President-elect Joe Biden rode on the crest of a gigantic wave of democratic mass movement which has engulfed the entire country. The Black Lives Matter movement since the start of May is the latest display of mass opposition following the show of mass resistance by American workers, immigrants, women, youth and other sectors of American society. Over the past few months, hundreds of thousands of workers have taken to the streets to protest racism, police brutality and attacks against civil rights, as well as to amplify the clamor for jobs, higher wages, work safety, subsidies for health and education, housing, proper public health response to the pandemic and other urgent demands.

The American working class and people must continue to organize and mobilize in their numbers to make the Biden government act swiftly to respond to these urgent demands. Conditions are ever favorable for proletarian revolutionaries to strengthen their ranks and expand the scope of their leadership.

Biden will now head the US imperialist state amid worsening crisis of the global capitalist system. Over the past two decades, the US has been reasserting its global hegemony through military might to protect and expand its economic interests to the detriment of workers and people and sovereign countries around the world. For more than ten years now, the US government has deployed its troops and its armada of aircraft carriers in the Middle East, Europe and Asia and has waged wars of aggression and intervention. It continues to build up military presence in the Asia-Pacific as it counters the build-up of China’s military and economic strength.

In the Philippines, the US military continues to maintain facilities and troops across the country, and extend military funding, training and support to the AFP and the Duterte government. US military support to the Duterte regime goes to expanded and intensified drug war sham and counterinsurgency operations that have resulted in thousands of killings, widespread abuses of human rights, incessant murder of activists, unlawful arrests, torture and imprisonment of critics and opposition forces.

With the ascendancy of Biden, the Filipino people and their friends in the US must strengthen the call for an end to military support to the Duterte fascist terrorist regime. They must double their efforts to convince the American people that continuing US military support for the Duterte regime equals support for his tyranny, his bloody reign of murder and state terrorism against the Filipino people.

They must demand an end to the Operation Pacific Eagle-Philippines under which US military troops are deployed in the country in the name of “counter-terrorism” but which actually provide support to the AFP in its campaign of suppression against the Filipino people. At the same time, the Filipino people must demand complete abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and other military treaties which perpetuate unequal military relations between the US and the Philippines.

As the global capitalist crisis and imperialist conflicts intensify, the Filipino people must continue to carry forward their struggle for genuine national freedom and seek an end to US neocolonial rule in the country.

https://cpp.ph/statements/on-the-defeat-of-donald-trump-in-the-us-presidential-elections/

NegOcc peace council OKs P31-M infra projects in 10 LGUs

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): NegOcc peace council OKs P31-M infra projects in 10 LGUs (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



INFRA PROJECTS. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson (left) presided over the joint Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council meeting at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City on Monday (Nov. 9, 2020). The Negros Occidental PPOC has approved PHP31.1 million worth of barangay infrastructure projects in 10 local government units funded through the 2020 PAMANA program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. (Photo courtesy of PIO Negros Occidental)

The Negros Occidental Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has approved PHP31 million worth of barangay infrastructure projects in 10 local government units (LGUs) funded through the 2020 PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNan (PAMANA) program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

These include six projects located in Hinoba-an amounting to PHP7.5 million as well as four projects in Himamaylan City worth PHP6 million.

Others are in Victorias City, four projects with an allocation of PHP5 million; San Carlos City, four projects costing PHP3 million; Ilog, three projects worth PHP3 million; Candoni, two projects, PHP3 million; Moises Padilla, two projects, PHP2 million; Isabela, one project, PHP1 million; Kabankalan City, two projects, PHP300,000; and Escalante City, one project, PHP300,000.

In a meeting presided by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson at the Capitol Social Hall on Monday, the PPOC endorsed the approval to the Provincial Development Council (PDC) for inclusion in the 2020 Supplemental Annual Investment Plan.

The projects will be implemented under a tripartite agreement between the OPAPP, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the provincial government of Negros Occidental.

The PPOC, together with the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council, also approved a total of PHP87 million worth of programs, projects, and activities for endorsement to the PDC.

Among the officials who attended the meeting were DILG-Negros Occidental officer-in-charge Evelyn Vista; Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade; Col. Romy Palgue, provincial director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office; and Nicolas Gomez, the provincial officer of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Negros Occidental.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121284

109 NPA surenderers in CAR, Region 2 get DSWD financial aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): 109 NPA surenderers in CAR, Region 2 get DSWD financial aid (By Liza Agoot)



TURN-OVER. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 2 distributed on Nov. 6, 2020 the PHP20,000 cash aid each to 109 former New Peoples Army rebels who surrendered to the fold of the law. The turn-over held on separate occasions were attended by representatives of the DSWD, 5th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, and provincial and municipal government officials of Ifugao. (Photo courtesy of DSWD-CAR) 

The government has released a total of PHP2.18 million to 109 former members of the New Peoples Army (NPA) who have earlier left the armed struggle and returned to the fold of the law.

Each surrenderer received the PHP20,000 financial assistance on Nov. 6 under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Of the total beneficiaries, 71 are from the towns of Aguinaldo, Asipulo, and Tinoc, Ifugao in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR); and 38 from Isabela province in Region 2. The distribution was held on separate occasions on Nov. 6.

Maj. Jekyll Julian Dulawan, chief of the 5ID public affairs office, said the amount is among several other assistance the government gives to former NPA rebels who decided to lay down their arms and renew allegiance to the Philippine government.

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government, which is strengthened by Executive Order 70, focuses on ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) by encouraging rebels to surrender in exchange for a better life with their families.

Under the government’s assistance program, cash, remuneration for surrendered firearms, livelihood, education, and housing support are given to the surrenderers depending on their needs. The assistance first goes thru a process of verification to ascertain the truthfulness of a person’s claim of being a former rebel.

Various agencies join hands in providing different assistance to rebel returnees.

“With the cash grant, the former rebels can now use it as a start-up for sari-sari stores or in any farm raising activities,” Dulawan said.

“JB”, one of the beneficiaries in Isabela, said “malayong-malayo ang sitwasyon ko ngayong nagbalik-loob na ako sa pamahalaan kumpara noong nasa loob pa ako ng kilusan. Hirap at gutom lang ang naranasan ko sa teroristang grupo kumpara sa tinatamasa ko ngayong matahimik at maayos na pamumuhay. Labis ang aking pasasalamat sa gobyerno dahil sa walang tigil na pagkalinga sa aming mga nagbalik-loob (my situation is so much different now that I returned to the embrace of the government compared to my life in the rebellion movement. I suffered and got hungry unlike now when I have a peaceful and better life. I am very thankful to the government for the assistance it gives to people like me who are returning),” he said.

“JM”, another beneficiary, emotionally thanked the government upon receiving the financial aid. She then urged the remaining members of the New People’s Army to surrender to the government.

“Walang katapusan ang aking pasasalamat sa ating pamahalaan dahil sa pagtupad sa inyong pangako na mapabuti ang aming kalagayan. Sa mga natitira pang mga miyembro at sumusuporta sa rebeldeng NPA, hinihikayat ko kayo na ibaba na ang inyong mga armas at magbalik loob sa pamahalaan (I will not tire on thanking the government for fulfilling its promise to improve our condition. I encourage the other NPA rebels to come down from [from the mountains], lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law)," she said.

BGen Laurence Mina, commander of the 5ID Philippine Army, said they will work hand in hand with other government agencies to help facilitate the benefits intended for the former rebels thru the E-CLIP.

“The assistance of the government to the former rebels will give more reasons for the remaining NPAs to surrender not soon, but now. I thank the different government agencies and the provincial and local government units for doing a great job in ending the insurgency in the region,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121182

NPA units in Soccsksargen now weakened, decimated

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): NPA units in Soccsksargen now weakened, decimated (By Richelyn Gubalani)



DECIMATED. Noel Legaspi alias “Ka Efren” (center), former spokesperson of the New People’s Army-Far South Mindanao Regional Revolutionary Committee, says local rebel units are now decimated and continue to weaken due to the continuing government offensives and surrender of their leaders and cadres in the area in the last three years. Legaspi bared this in a press conference in General Santos City on Tuesday (Nov. 10, 2020). Also in photo are former NPA rebels -- Datu Ramon Bayaan (left), and “Ka Jason” -- who said they were recruited through the communist legal fronts. (Screengrab of press conference)

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – New People’s Army (NPA) units operating in parts of Region 12 (Soccsksargen) are reportedly now almost decimated due to the government’s intensified offensives and the series of surrenders of their leaders and cadres in the last three years.

In a press conference Tuesday, Noel Legaspi alias “Ka Efren,” former spokesperson of the NPA’s Far South Mindanao Regional Revolutionary Committee, said the remaining units of the still active guerilla fronts in the region have continued to weaken based on their monitoring.

He said this can be seen with the inability of the rebels to stage major tactical offensives and other related activities in the area.

Legaspi said the support from the NPA’s “mass bases” has also waned and attendance in its mobilizations and campaigns against the government has significantly decreased.

He cited as an example the International Human Rights Day rally here on Dec. 10 last year when the communist movement’s “legal fronts” only managed to mobilize at least 50 people, a huge drop from the 300 and above in the previous years.

“The biggest reason is the continuing surrender of their leaders and cadres. They realized that they were following a futile cause and eventually found hope with the government’s successful interventions in our communities, especially in the remote areas,” he said.

The exact figures are not immediately available but over 200 NPA rebels from parts of the region have surrendered and renewed their allegiance to the government since 2017 based on reports from Army and police units.

But Legaspi said the government still has a lot of work to do in terms of eliminating the influence of the NPA, especially in remote rural communities.

He said that aside from the military offensives, the government should continue bringing the necessary socio-economic services to the affected areas.

The former rebel leader, who surrendered in January 2018 after nearly 26 years in the communist terrorist organization, cited the convergence services being delivered by government agencies and local government units under the local task forces to end local communist armed conflict.

“The legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA are still here and we should intensify our efforts to counter them,” he said.

Legaspi specifically referred to the League of Filipino Students (LFS), Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), Gabriela, Anakpawis, Anakbayan, and other allied militant groups.

He said these groups are directly linked to the CPP-NPA and recruits cadres from among their members.

“I was actually recruited to join the CPP-NPA after I joined the LFS and eventually became the spokesperson of Bayan-Socsksargen,” he said.

These were backed by two other former rebels -- Datu Ramon Bayaan and “Ka Jason” – who joined the NPA through the legal fronts that operated in North Cotabato.

“That has been the strategy of the CPP-NPA. They enter our communities through their legal fronts, organize the people and eventually recruit them,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121348

1st legal action team vs. CPP-NPA formed in W. Visayas

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): 1st legal action team vs. CPP-NPA formed in W. Visayas (By Perla Lena)



WAR VS. CTGs. Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division’s spokesperson Maj. Cenon Pancito III attends a media briefing in Iloilo City on Tuesday (Nov. 10, 2020). Pancito said a legal action team has been formed to augment the fight against the communist terrorist groups. (PNA photo by 3ID-PA)

ILOILO CITY – A legal action team that will add teeth to the government’s campaign against the Communist Party of the Philippines -New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has been formed in Western Visayas.

In a media briefing on Tuesday, Maj. Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson for the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army (PA), said the “Joint Focused Legal Action Team (JFLAT)” has been formed by the Legal Cooperation and Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support (PLEDS) Clusters of the Regional Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict 6 (RTF-ELCAC 6).

He said the JFLAT Team has gathered 124 judicial affidavits of former rebels from Western Visayas composed of 53 from Capiz; 21 from Antique; five from Iloilo; and 45 from Negros Occidental.

“Same will be used for our legal offensives against the CTGs (communist terrorist groups). It has been our experience that we are not pursuing the NPAs legally. With JFLAT, we shall be able to take our positions even in court,” he said.

Pancito believed that the presence of the team will “surely hasten our anti-insurgency efforts particularly on legal aspect”.

“This will likewise help sustain our gains now that the law enforcement agencies together with the Legal Cooperation Cluster are in full force in defeating the CTGs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Pancito said the government’s relentless campaign against the CTGs have been making headway.

From January 1 this year up to present, 14 rebels in Panay have surrendered, eight were apprehended and five were killed.

The figure does not include the six former rebels who surrendered in Antique last October 29 and one from Miagao who surrendered on November 7.

The neutralization also resulted to the recoveries of seven high-powered firearms and nine low-powered firearms; confiscation of three low-powered firearms and surrender of one high-powered firearm and six low-powered firearms.

“We are proud to announce that the tactics and tools employed now by the 3rd Infantry Division are paying off. Our relentless pursuit operations have produced so much result,” he said.

He added that the relentless campaign resulted to the demoralization in the rank of the NPA.

“The result that we have right now is overwhelming and we are on track amid the pandemic,” he added.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121393

Zambo Sur fetes 53IB for anti-insurgency achievements

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): Zambo Sur fetes 53IB for anti-insurgency achievements (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



The Zamboanga del Sur provincial government has commended the Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion for successful operations that resulted in the confiscation of assorted firearms from the communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in the province.

The commendation was made through a resolution authored by Provincial Board Member John Regala, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s Committee on Fire, Public Safety, and Peace and Order.

In a statement Tuesday, Zamboanga del Sur Gov. Victor Yu said Regala’s resolution was based on the accomplishment report of the 53IB detailing its anti-insurgency campaign.

Yu noted that the 53IB recorded nine firefights against the NPA from May 6 to July 21 this year, resulting in the recovery of 14 assorted high-powered firearms.

The troops also managed to overrun 25 hideouts of the NPAs, mostly attributed to the tip-offs from the communities.

Regala said the 53IB's "outstanding conduct of operation’s contributed immensely to the overall peace situation in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

“In their excellent and outstanding conduct of Army operations, with the seizure of high-powered firearms and capture of enemy hideouts, the 53IB prevented the NPA from committing atrocities targeting innocent civilians and vulnerable communities,” Regala said.

Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, commander of the 53IB, said the recognition would "serve as an inspiration to all the ‘Matapat’ troopers”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121384

6ID vows to rid C. Mindanao of Reds by yearend

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 11, 2020): 6ID vows to rid C. Mindanao of Reds by yearend (By Edwin Fernandez)



SURRENDER. Four communist New People’s Army guerillas surrender Wednesday (Nov. 11, 2020) to the military authorities in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. Major Gen. Juvymax Uy (inset), commander of the 6th Infantry Division operating in Central Mindanao, vowed to crush the communist rebels in the area by the end of the year. (Photo courtesy of 37IB)

The military in Central Mindanao is on track to completely remove the threat of the communist insurgency within its area of responsibility by the end of the year.

Major General Juvymax R. Uy, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID), made the assurance Wednesday as he welcomed the four communist rebels who surrendered to the 37th Infantry Battalion in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat.

“We will finish the communist terrorist group problem by December 2020,” Uy said.

He said the 6ID and Joint Task Force Central are "exerting all efforts to complete" the mandate issued by President Rodrigo Duterte to end communist activities in the region and the rest of the country.

Uy said the Philippine Army is engaged in a two-pronged approach to end the communist problem.

“For one, the Army is opening all its camps in the provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, Sarangani and part of Lanao del Sur, to welcome New People’s Army (NPA) radicals who wished to return to mainstream society,” he said.

“The other is the use of force, when necessary, to protect the people and the nation, Uy added.

Uy said all Army battalions under 6ID have been ordered to facilitate the "peaceful surrender of NPA guerillas who wish to reform and live normal lives."

At least 200 communist rebels have surrendered in the area of responsibility of the 6ID in the last two years.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121438

NTF-ELCAC budget to boost barangay dev’t: Surigao Sur guv

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 11, 2020): NTF-ELCAC budget to boost barangay dev’t: Surigao Sur guv (By Alexander Lopez)



Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander T. Pimentel. (Photo grab from Gov. Ayec T. Pimentel Facebook Account)

The proposed budget for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) would boost the existing development programs in barangays, benefiting villagers in areas that have been cleared from the influence of the communist rebel movement.

This was raised by Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel, who expressed support for the proposed PHP16.4 billion allocation for NTF-ELCAC next year.

In a statement Tuesday, Pimentel pointed out that the NTF-ELCAC includes social development packages, livelihood projects, and infrastructure that are enumerated under the Barangay Development Programs (BDPs) of villages that have been considered "cleared" from the influence of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).

“I say this with much severity, for I have personally witnessed how our barangay officials consulted with their constituents in the crafting of their development plans and have thoroughly identified their essential needs to attain a peaceful and progressive community,” Pimentel said.

The governor said Surigao del Sur residents “have suffered enough being victims of extortion, indoctrination along with the continuous exploitation of our minors being recruited to join the armed struggle” by the CPP-NPA.

Pimentel said the presence of the communist rebels constantly threatens the economic activities in the province.

"The denial of the proposed budget for NTF-ELCAC would be tantamount to the loss of the hopes and aspirations of the local populace to have better lives and the continuation of the exploitation of the CPP-NPA on the issues considered as the root causes of the insurgency," he said.

He also challenged the members of the Makabayan bloc in the Lower House, who he said have been known to advocate for the marginalized sectors, to support the passage of the NTF-ELCAC budget.

“Now is the time to prove your intentions and be true to your advocacies,” Pimentel said, as he urged them not to delay the enactment of the said budget.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121481

10 BIFF yield in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12, 2020): 10 BIFF yield in Maguindanao (By Noel Punzalan)  



NEW LIFE. Mayor Datu Ali Pax Mangudadatu (left) of Datu Abdullah Sangki town in Maguindanao shakes the hand of one of the 10 Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who yielded to the military on Wednesday (Nov.11, 2020). The provincial government awarded the surrenderers with livelihood packages to become productive residents in their communities. (Photo courtesy of Brigada News FM Cotabato) 

Ten more combatants of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have abandoned their cause and decided to return to the fold of law to live normal lives again.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (ID) commander, said the surrenderers belong to the BIFF Karialan faction operating in the marshlands of Maguindanao under the SPMS box.

The SPMS box is a military term referring to the adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan town), Mamasapano, and Shariff Saydona, all in Maguindanao, where the BIFF operate.

“They grew tired of running from intense military operations in the province and decided to surrender,” Uy said in an interview by reporters here on Thursday.

In simple ceremonies held on Wednesday afternoon at the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Zapakan of Rajah Buayan town, the surrenderers were formally presented before the 6ID commander and provincial government officials led by Governor Bai Mariam Sangki--Mangudadatu.

The surrenderers also gave up assorted firearms during the ceremony.

In the same event, the provincial government awarded the surrenderers with livelihood packages to start their new lives.

“This livelihood package is a great help for us to rebuild our lives again as peaceful civilians,” Abdullah, one of the surrenderers said in the vernacular during the ceremony.

Uy urged other BIFF members still fighting for their lost cause to surrender and feel the warm embrace of their families again.

“We will help you because your families are also longing for your return to them,” he said.

At least 150 BIFF combatants have surrendered to the 6ID in the past two years.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121548

5 Black Hawk choppers for PAF arrive from Poland

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): 5 Black Hawk choppers for PAF arrive from Poland (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Photo courtesy of DND

Five of the 16 Polish-made Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters acquired for the Philippine Air Force have arrived in the Philippines, with another one expected to be delivered via sea next month.

"Yes, the five arrived in Clark (Air base in Angeles City, Pampanga) aboard an Antonov heavy transport plane (An-124). The sixth was loaded on a ship that will arrive on Dec. 2," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to the Philippine News Agency late Monday.

The 16 helicopters, acquired from Polish company Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze Sp.z.o.o, were manufactured under license from Sikorsky USA and had a contract price of USD241,461,699 (around PHP11.6 billion).

The project was procured through a government-to-government transaction with Poland. The negotiations were completed in 2019.

The acquisition of the Polish-made S-70i Black Hawk combat helicopters is part of Horizon 2 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (AFPMP).

The Antonov plane took off from Rzeszow-Jasionka Airport, Poland on Nov. 7 and arrived at Clark Air Base on Monday.

"We will wait for the PAF to designate the commissioning date and unit whey will be assigned," he added.

Meanwhile, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the remaining 10 units of the Polish-made S-70i Black Hawks will be delivered early next year.

Andolong added that the S-70i will greatly boost the AFP's capability to conduct various operations, including combat missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response, and help in the government's efforts against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121286

Duterte lauds military for thwarting Abu Sayyaf kidnap plot

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): Duterte lauds military for thwarting Abu Sayyaf kidnap plot (By Azer Parrocha)



President Rodrigo R. Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has hailed the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) - Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu for successfully thwarting a kidnapping attempt by seven Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Parang, Sulu on November 3.

In a taped speech aired Tuesday, Duterte hailed them for their “gallantry”, “vigilance”, and “commitment” in defeating the ASG bandits and ensuring the safety of the nation.

“Today, we honor the brave men and women of the Western Mindanao Command Joint Task Force Sulu, with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, for a highly successful conduct of operation 'Perfect Storm 2' in Parang, Sulu on November 3,” he said.

Duterte said that despite unfavorable conditions, government troops “bravely” undertook air and sea interdiction operations that led to their victory.

“Your dedication to sworn duty strongly affirms this administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguard our people and maintain peace and security in the country,” he said.

He assured them that the administration would continue to pursue efforts to enhance capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) against threats through modernization and capacity building initiatives.

“Be assured in this administration’s unwavering support to the AFP and the police also, through programs that will further improve your capacity to respond to the security needs of the country, he added.

Duterte said their acts of service have earned them the respect of the nation.

“To the valiant troops we are honoring today, please accept my love for you and your family and you have just earned the respect of a grateful nation,” he said.

He also reminded them of their sworn duty to protect the nation against all forms of threats.

“So, I talk to you in behalf of a grateful nation. We need to beef up our security kaya magpakatatag kayo (be strong), do not worry. Your job is to secure the nation, make it peaceful. Salamat (Thank you),” he added.

On November 3, WestMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., said the predawn firefight near Sulare Island in Parang town ensued after the Army's Special Forces aboard a helicopter gunship and a multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC) intercepted a twin-engine speed boat with seven ASG bandits aboard.

“Our troops conducted air and sea interdiction targeting members of the ASG/kidnap-for-ransom group under (ASG leaders) Mundi Sawadjaan and Radullan Sahiron. Exchanges of fires transpired, which lasted for 25 minutes and resulted in the sinking of the boat utilized by more or less seven ASG members,” Vinluan said.

Vinluan said the ASG bandits “were planning to conduct kidnapping activities in mainland Mindanao”.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, said two of the seven slain ASG bandits were identified as Madsmar Sawadjaan and Mannul Sawadjaan.

He said Madsmar was the brother of ASG leader and infamous bomber Mundi Sawadjaan, while Mannul was designated to replace the slain ASG senior leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, as emir of the bandit group. The other five slain ASG bandits are yet to be identified.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121412

Sinas assumes as 25th PNP chief; vows to sustain anti-drug drive

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 10, 2020): Sinas assumes as 25th PNP chief; vows to sustain anti-drug drive (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



New PNP Chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas on Tuesday assumed as the 25th chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), vowing to sustain the Duterte administration’s campaign against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality.

"We will focus on sustaining and enhancing the President’s commitment in the eradication of illegal drugs, corruption, terrorism, illegal gambling, and other criminalities," Sinas said in his inaugural speech in rites held at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame.

He replaced now retired Gen. Camilo Cascolan who led the PNP for two months.

Sinas said the drug enforcement units will be revitalized so they can focus attention in going after high-value targets and policemen who are involved in the illegal drugs trade.

"On the campaign against illegal drugs, we will revitalize the different drug enforcement units to focus their operation on anti-illegal drugs in the apprehension of high value targets or individuals and in the identification and neutralization of the remaining ninja and narco cops including their associates and associated networks," he said.

He said drug enforcement units will be manned by personnel “with no reported or suspected involvement in illegal drugs” to ensure integrity while personnel with bad records will be replaced.

"Administrative cases will be resolved properly and immediately and penalty will be implemented in order to remove corrupt and undisciplined personnel in the police service," he said.

Sinas promised to "fortify the competency" of police operatives working in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs by equipping them "with the right knowledge, skills through training, and equipment".

On Monday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte has looked into Sinas’ track record and contribution to the administration’s aggressive anti-illegal drugs campaign before appointing him as new PNP chief.

Roque said Duterte’s marching order to Sinas is to continue the government’s campaign against illegal drugs and ensuring that the country is a safe place to live in.

Sinas said all police personnel are also directed not to play golf during office hours and should adhere to the standing directive of Duterte against going to gambling places or casinos.

"Any member of the PNP who will be involved in corrupt practices will not be tolerated and will be immediately investigated and dismissed from the police service if found guilty under the PNP disciplinary mechanism or in the proper court of law," said Sinas.

Sinas said policemen should also strictly observe discipline inside police camps and police stations. Otherwise, he said administrative charges may be pursued against them.

He also said police visibility will be improved, adding 85 percent of policemen should be deployed in the streets.

"In the campaign against criminality, to optimize police service to the community, police visibility will be strengthened through the 15 and 85 deployment scheme wherein 15 percent will be on duty at the headquarters to do administrative functions and the 85 (percent) will be in the field for more focused police operations, crime prevention through patrolling and police visibility," said Sinas.

He said police personnel should “walk the talk” when upholding the rule of law.

“To the men and women of PNP, I expect nonetheless, together with the command group, that we will solidly volt in one aspiration in achieving the mandate of peace and front-liners in upholding the rule of law,” he said.
Sinas, who hails from Butuan City, is an alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Hinirang Class of 1987.

Before his appointment as Metro Manila police chief in October 2019, he also served as director of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7), deputy regional director for administration of the PRO 12 (Soccsksargen), and director of the PNP Crime Laboratory.

He will serve as the head of the police force until May 2021.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121414

Navy, Coast Guard to boost cooperation in protecting PH waters

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 11, 2020): Navy, Coast Guard to boost cooperation in protecting PH waters (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BOOSTING TIES. Philippine Coast Guard commandant, Adm. George Ursabia (left), receives a token of appreciation from Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (right), during his visit to the Navy headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Tuesday (Nov. 10, 2020). During the visit, Ursabia and Bacordo discussed collaborations and plans between the Navy and the Coast Guard, especially in conducting maritime law enforcement in the country. (Photo courtesy of the Naval Public Affairs Office)

Philippine Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, said instead of competing, all agencies tasked to protect the country's maritime domains should complement one another in fulfilling this mission.

"We are not competitors. We share the same maritime space. The problems in the maritime area are the same problem(s) (we face),” Bacordo said during the visit of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant, Adm. George Ursubia, at the Navy headquarters in Naval Station Jose Andrada along Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Tuesday.

Ursabia, meanwhile, said the PCG needs the help of the Navy and maritime agencies, such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), in protecting the country's waters.

“There are a lot of users in the sea but there are also a lot of violators to the sea and our job is to ensure safety, security, and a clean ocean and seas. Hence, we really need the PN (Philippine Navy) and other agencies such as BFAR, (Bureau of) Customs, and others, to help us achieve this. This meeting will be a start and we are looking forward (to) strengthen our partnership," he said.

Ursabia also expressed his appreciation for the two maritime organization’s continued “harmonious relationship”.

During his visit, Bacordo, along with select members of his staff, discussed collaborations and plans, especially in maritime law enforcement across the country.

Ursabia's visit to Bacordo came two months after the Navy chief's courtesy call at the PCG headquarters in South Harbor, Manila.

These engagements aim to enhance ties between the two agencies as they share the responsibility of monitoring and defending the Philippine maritime domain.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121423

PH extends suspension of VFA termination

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12, 2020): PH extends suspension of VFA termination (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



File photo

The Philippine government has extended the suspension of the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) for another six months, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. announced on Wednesday.

Locsin said this would allow the Philippines and the United States "to find a more enhanced, mutually beneficial, mutually agreeable, and more effective and lasting arrangement on how to move forward in our mutual defense."

In a video message informing White House National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien, Locsin noted that the South China Sea has changed in the past four years "from one of uncertainty about great powers’ intentions to one of predictability and resulting stability with regard to what can and cannot be done."

He attributed the renewal of stability and security in the region to the efforts displayed by both Washington DC and Manila.

“A great deal of credit for the renewal of stability and security goes to deft diplomacy and equivocal expressions of policy, sturdy postures of strength combined with unfailing tact and pragmatic national security advise exhibited by both our governments in the same period,” he said.

Locsin then hailed the Philippine-US friendship and alliance.

"Long Live Philippine US friendship and alliance. I hereby send the Diplomatic Note in that respect," he said.

The VFA is a framework for defense forces cooperation that allows joint exercises between the Philippines and the US.

Manila officially sent the notice to terminate it last February 11, which was then suspended in June for six months.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121499

DepEd wants modules giving false outlook on soldiers confiscated

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12, 2020): DepEd wants modules giving false outlook on soldiers confiscated (By Ma. Teresa Montemayor)



The Department of Education (DepEd) has ordered the immediate confiscation of self-learning modules which violated social content standard “by giving false perspective on our soldiers role in maintaining peace and wellness in the community".

"So far, we have requested the immediate confiscation of the said module,” the DepEd said in a statement on Wednesday.

The DepEd said the distribution of modules to students “is not allowed if it does not pass through the review of Division or Regional Offices”.

“Based on our survey, the said module was locally-developed and did not pass through the DepEd Cordillera Administrative Region examination,” it added.

It said investigation will continue and legal steps will be taken against those who prepared and distributed the module.

“This is also to ensure that the learning materials of the schools deliver quality education and also to for the welfare of the Filipino children," it added.

On Oct. 12, the DepEd launched “Error Watch” through which the public can report errors on modules for immediate validation and correction.

The DepEd reported a total of 41 errors which range “from factual errors to grammar or syntax” have been found in the distributed self-learning modules as of October 23.

Of the total errors, about 27 were classified as locally-developed errors; 11 were errors from unknown sources; and three errors were from the Central Office-quality assured self-learning modules.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121542

Navy deploys disaster response teams to Camarines Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12, 2020): Navy deploys disaster response teams to Camarines Sur (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office

Disaster relief and response teams (DRRTs) of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NFSL) have already been deployed to assist local rescue units in Camarines Sur.

"The PN through NFSL deployed one of its DRRT to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Operation Center in the Provincial Capitol Compound of Pili, Camarines Sur," said PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, in a statement forwarded late Wednesday night.

Roxas said another DRRT was dispatched from NFSL headquarters in Legazpi City to conduct preemptive evacuation to the residents of Pili and Bula towns of Camarines Sur Wednesday.

"Another DRRT from NFSL's Naval Special Operations Unit-3 is deployed at the Municipality of Nabua, while two DRRTs composed of Naval and Marine reservists were put on standby," she added.

These DRRTs was deployed for preemptive and rescue operations in the said province because of the inclement weather brought by Typhoon Ulysses.

"The PN always stands ready to render necessary assistance and services to the Filipino people especially in times of disasters, calamities, and emergencies through its fully-equipped and deployable DRRTs," Roxas said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121552

AFP lauds DepEd recall of module with false portrayal of soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12, 2020): AFP lauds DepEd recall of module with false portrayal of soldiers (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson, Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has lauded the Department of Education (DepEd) for immediately recalling a self-learning module that painted a wrong perspective of Filipino soldiers promoting peace and order in communities.

"We note with deep appreciation the Department of Education’s public and unequivocal disavowal and order to recall immediately a self-learning module that violated their social content standard and painted a wrong perspective of the Philippine soldiers who promote peace and order in the communities," AFP spokesperson, Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement Wednesday night.

He added that the DepED vows to investigate further the circumstances behind the distribution of the assailed learning materials and to prosecute those responsible for this act.

"The AFP joins the Department in hoping that this unfortunate incident will not happen again and in ensuring that all educational materials will be of quality to benefit students," Arevalo said.

Earlier, the DepEd ordered the immediate confiscation of self-learning modules which violated social content standards “by giving false perspective on our soldiers' role in maintaining peace and wellness in the community".

It also added that the distribution of modules to students “is not allowed if it does not pass through the review of Division or Regional Offices”.

“Based on our survey, the said module was locally-developed and did not pass through the DepEd Cordillera Administrative Region examination,” DepEd said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121547

Kalinaw News: Outgoing and Incoming Chairmen of GPH CCCH visit 6ID

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov10, 2020): Outgoing and Incoming Chairmen of GPH CCCH visit 6ID



CAMP Siongco, Maguindanao-Brigadier General Francisco Ariel A Felicidario III PA, outgoing Chairman of Government of the Philippines (GPH) Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) together with Brigadier General Antonio G Nafarrete PA, the Deputy Commander of Western Mindanao Command and Police Brigadier General Eden T. Ugale PNP paid courtesy call to Major General Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division and Joint Task Force Central in Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on November 6, 2020.

The said officials were welcomed with a traditional company-sized military honors rendered by the officers and enlisted personnel of the command upon their arrival in front of Admin Building. The three high ranking officials of army and police were received by BGen Jose H. Narciso, Assistant Division Commander; Col. Jovencio Gonzales, Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retirees Affairs; Col. Michael A Santos, Chief of Staff; Col. Joel Abregana, Division Inspector General and General Staff headed by the 6ID Commander, Maj. Gen. Uy.

BGen Felicidario relinquished his position as chairman of GPH CCCH to BGen Nafarrete last November 5, 2020. The CCCH, is part of the ceasefire mechanism established to sustain the peace when conflict between government troops and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) before, now it forms part of the mechanism to oversee the realization of the peace process as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government pursue their aspirations.






https://www.kalinawnews.com/outgoing-and-incoming-chairmen-of-gph-ccch-visit-6id/

Kalinaw News: 12 CNTs Yield to the Army through village Chief’s Aid

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov11, 2020): 12 CNTs Yield to the Army through village Chief’s Aid



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Twelve Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) surrendered to the combined troops of the 58th Infantry Battalion (58th IB) and the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion (2SRB) through the intervention of a village chief at Sitio Langusahan, Barangay Minalwang, Claveria in Misamis Oriental on November 8, 2020.

The 12 surrenderees which included three teenagers were composed of high-ranking CNT members belonging to the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

The result of the operation was attributed by the Military to the active support of local officials of Barangay Minalwang, Claveria in ending the local communist armed conflict and to the intensified operations launched by the 402nd Infantry Brigade along the quad-boundary of Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte, and Agusan del Sur.

The surrender of the 12 CNTs also led to the discovery of three arms caches containing several high-powered and low-powered firearms and ammunitions, among others. The yielders revealed that the sustained Focus Military Operations (FMOs) of the troops had propelled them to surrender to the government after experiencing starvation and struggling to survive in the mountains.

The active participation of the populace in tackling the local insurgency also made their life under the armed struggle even more challenging and unbearable especially that their mere presence in the communities could easily trigger reports to the authorities, the surrenderees revealed.

Lt. Gen. Jose C. Faustino, Jr, the Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, attributed the success of the unit operations to the proactive involvement of the communities and the local leaders in ending local armed conflict in the region.

“The communities’ growing cooperation signifies that they have already developed an aversion to and had grown tired of the CTG’s atrocities that had stunted the economic growth in their areas for many years. This is also a clear manifestation that the communities, especially the IP communities who are vulnerable to exploitation and recruitment, no longer want them,” Lt. Gen Faustino said.

“This is now a critical moment for the CNTs and their allies to decide to relent. Those who continue to support the armed struggle can be likened to that of a drowning man clutching at straws. Their only ticket out of this situation is to voluntarily surrender to the government,” Lt. Gen. Faustino added.

Lt. Gen. Faustino also reiterated his call to the remaining active CNTs to surrender and avail of the government’s services before it’s too late.

“To the remaining CNTs out there, come and lay down your arms. The government’s door is always open to accept and help you through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). However, if you refuse to heed our call, we will not think twice in using our force to neutralize you for the greater good of the Filipino people who only want nothing but peace,” Lt. Gen. Faustino said.