Bulacan town declares Kadamay official persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 17, 2020): Bulacan town declares Kadamay official persona non grata (By Manny Balbin)

RESOLUTION. The copy of the resolution declaring secretary-general and national spokesperson of the urban poor group Kalipunan ng Damayan ng Mahihirap (Kadamay) Mimi Doringo persona non-grata by the local officials of Pandi, Bulacan. Mayor Enrico Roque said on Thursday (Dec. 17, 2020) that local officials cannot tolerate Doringo’s lack of respect for government officials and law enforcers. (Courtesy of Pandi Mayor Enrico Roque)

CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan – Local officials of Pandi town have declared Mimi Doringo, the secretary-general and national spokesperson of the urban poor group Kalipunan ng Damayan ng Mahihirap (Kadamay), persona non-grata.

Mayor Enrico Roque on Thursday said, in an interview, the declaration was made through resolution No. 196-2020 approved during the 44th regular meeting of the Sangguniang Bayan on Dec. 14, 2020, headed by Vice Mayor Luisa Sebastian.

Roque said local officials cannot tolerate Doringo’s lack of respect for government officials and law enforcers.

“In a quiet and orderly community here in Pandi, there is no room for a personality like Doringo whose desire is violent and disrespectful to a town leader, we will not allow their fighting ideologies to prevail over this town,” the mayor said.

The declaration was rooted in connection with the rally held by leaders and members of the Kadamay Pandi chapter last November in Barangay Mapulang Lupa where the group expressed their grievances to the government regarding the issues on housing, water, and power supplies.

“Hindi namin pinayagang mag-rally ang Kadamay nung kanilang anniversary nitong November dito sa Pandi for security and health reasons dahil may mga manggagaling pa sa Manila (We did not allow Kadamay to rally during their anniversary this November here in Pandi for security and health reasons because there are still people coming from Manila),” Roque said.

The mayor said Doringo reportedly shouted during their illegal rally some rude words against him, Sebastian, town councilors, and acting Pandi chief of police, Lt. Col. Jordan Santiago.

“Hinayaan naming siyang maglabas-pasok sa bayan ng Pandi kahit nalalagay sa risk ang health at security ng buong bayan pero ‘yung bastusin niya kami sa sarili naming bayan, ibang usapan na yun (We allowed her to go in and out in Pandi even though the health and security of the whole town are at risk but she insulted us in our own town and that’s another matter),” Roque added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125059

PNP welcomes surrender of Red fighter in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2020): PNP welcomes surrender of Red fighter in Leyte (By Gerico Sabalza)

YIELDED. A former rebel in Leyte hands over a firearm to Police Regional Office (PRO) 8 (Eastern Visayas) director, Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, in Palo, Leyte on Thursday (Dec. 17, 2020). De Jesus on Friday (Dec. 18, 2020) said they are now processing the application of the former rebel, so he can avail of benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government. (Photo courtesy of PRO-8)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has welcomed the decision of a member of the New People's Amy (NPA) in Capoocan, Leyte to abandon the armed struggle against the government.

"Arman" (not his real name), 39, yielded before the joint operatives of the PNP's Provincial Intelligence Unit, Leyte Police Provincial Office, 2nd Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the 121st Special Action Company on Dec. 10 and was presented to officials of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 8 (Eastern Visayas) in Palo, Leyte on Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, PRO-8 Director, said they coordinated with the Army's 93rd Infantry Battalion and 802nd Infantry Brigade during the conduct of continuous community engagement and information operations.

De Jesus said the former rebel, who handed over a caliber .30 German sniper rifle, left the mass movement in 2009 but remained supportive to the rebel group by housing NPA members.

Arman was involved in several encounters with government troops in 2002, the killing of two police officers and three employees of the Philippine National Oil Company power plant in Ormoc City, the raid of AZNAR ranch in Tabango, Leyte which led to the seizure of firearms, and the killing of three other cops in Villaba town, the PNP said.

"Our sustained persuasion effort is now finally reaping positive results. I have high hopes that more stories leaving nonsensical fight and choosing a peaceful life will soon surface," de Jesus said in a statement on Friday.

He added the police force will strengthen its coordination with other members of the regional task force to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) to convince more NPA rebels to lay down their arms.

Meanwhile, authorities are now processing the application of the former rebel, so he can avail of benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

E-CLIP gives former rebels a holistic package of benefits such as livelihood, medical, education, housing, and even legal assistance.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, 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/1125192

NPA-affected areas in Agusan Norte town to get services, gifts

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2020): NPA-affected areas in Agusan Norte town to get services, gifts (By Alexander Lopez)

CHRISTMAS GIFTS. Gift packs and free services will be given to residents in the Geographically-Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The activity will run from Dec. 14 to Dec. 26, 2020. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

BUTUAN CITY – Residents of villages considered Geographically-Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in the Agusan del Norte town of Nasipit are benefiting from a series of service caravan and gift-giving activities that started on Dec. 14 until Dec. 26.

The activities are part of the Renewed and Intensified Community Outreach (RICO) program led by Nasipit's Municipal Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), together with the 23rd Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

1st Lt. Roel Maglalang, 23IB civil-military operations officer, said more than 600 residents in Sitio Tabon, Barangay Aclan, and Sitio Campo in Barangay Jamiguitan in Nasipit town have received the services since the activity started.

“This is a continuing activity in line with the implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 and to bring the message of hope during the Christmas season to the people who are deeply affected by the harassments and deceptions of the New People’s Army (NPA),” Maglalang told the Philippine News Agency Friday.

Aside from the food packs, the residents will also receive free services from the government, including medical services, birth registration, distribution of food packs and slippers, circumcision for the children, and the free haircut, he added.

“The residents in these areas have already withdrawn their support to the NPA this year. This is a continuing activity that will bridge the residents directly to the LGU and other agencies to ensure the provision of development interventions of the government,” Maglalang said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo, 23IB commander, said Nasipit Mayor Enrico Corvera during the series of service caravan activities until Dec. 26.

“Now is the best time to help each other and to share our blessing. It is also the best time to be with our families and to forget all the hatred and chaos we had in our hearts,” Paulo said in a statement Friday.

He also called on the remaining members of the NPA in the area to return to the fold of the law and be with their families during the Yuletide season.

“Your families are waiting for your return. Leave the armed struggle and be a responsible parent to stand as the great foundation and light to your families,” Paulo said.

He also praised the residents in the GIDA areas of Nasipit for "standing against the continuing threats of the NPA."

The 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/1125123

Army turns over 23 firearms to Zambo Norte police

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 18, 2020): Army turns over 23 firearms to Zambo Norte police (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

REBEL FIREARMS. The Army's 97th Infantry Battalion turns over Thursday (December 17, 2020) 23 assorted high-powered firearms to the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Police Office for processing as part of the requirements in the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. Lt. Col. Manaros Boransing, 97IB commander, said the firearms were surrendered by the NPA's cell HQ-KALAW, which was dismantled by government forces in August 2020. (Photo courtesy of 97IB)

ZAMBOANGA CITY--The Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion (IB) has turned over 23 assorted high-powered firearms to the Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Police Office (ZNPPO) for the conduct of Technical Inspection Report (TIP) and Cost of Evaluation Report (CER).

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, commander of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, said Friday the firearms were surrendered by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) "terrorist cell" HQ-KALAW, the Regional Operations Command of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

Ponio said the 23 firearms, which were turned over Thursday to the ZNPPO, consisted of 15 AK-47 assault rifles, four M16A1 “Baby Armalite” assault rifles, two M4A1 assault rifles, an M79 grenade launcher, and a .50-caliber Barret sniper rifle.

Ponio said the TIP and CER form part of the requirements for availing of firearms remuneration assistance for former NPA rebels under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Lt. Col. Manaros Boransing, commander of the 97IB, said Friday that the firearms were surrendered when his command dismantled the NPA’s cell HQ-KALAW in August this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125178

When the government has a change of heart, so does the rebel

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): When the government has a change of heart, so does the rebel (By Jan Vincent Leuterio) 

Davao del Norte, (PIA) - With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many people have associated the year with losses.

However, in the many wars that the Philippines is currently facing, there is one that the country is evidently winning—the war against insurgency.

In the last decades, the Philippines has dealt with what seems to be an unsolvable insurgency. With the operation of the Communist Party of the Philippines linked with the New People’s Army, citizens in the far-flung areas have had to live their daily lives in the sound of gunshots, sights of bloodshed, and in state of fear.

This writer had the chance to visit to Sitio Kaylawan in Barangay Sto. Nino last October 2, 2020 with team members of Provincial Information Communication and Knowledge Management Office (PICKMO) Documentary Film.

As we were sent to document a story related to ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), we spent time having conversation with the two high-ranking married former rebels living there, and we realized how far the government has come in finally finding the key to this particular war.

This writer in Sitio Kaylawan in Talaingod

The government has understood that this war cannot be won through force and overpowering the rebels, but rather by winning their hearts.

This time, for the government, it was about eliminating the rebels’ struggle for survival, treating them well, and showing them that the military has come not to hurt but to help.

“Lahi na kaayo sauna ug karon. Kita na namo na pinangga man diay mi sa gobyerno. Buotan kaayo ang mga sundalo dinhi (It’s very different now. We see now that the government is taking care of us. The military soldiers are very nice here),” Former high-ranking NPA rebel, Aye Apuga, said.

“Gihatagan mi ug panginabuhian, naa mi sariling gulayan, naa na sab mi kuryente ug ginabuhat na sad nila ang dalan para panaog sa lungsod arun mabaligya namo among mga tanom (They gave us livelihood, we have our own vegetable farm, we have electricity, and they’re building the roads going down so we can sell our harvests),” she added.

Having experienced this sincerity, the rebels have not only come to the folds of the government but are also now courageously extending their arms for the other rebels to join them back to mainstream society.

The national and local governments have made these successes through intensively pursuing the whole of nation approach to end local communist armed conflict embodied in Executive Order No. 70 issued by President Roa Rodrigo.

Some line government agencies have found their way hauling various government services with the provincial and municipal governments together with the 56th Infantry Battalion. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for one has introduced Solar panel project, organic poultry raising and organic vegetable farming among other projects.

“Naog na mo. Saakong mga paryente nga nabilin, kabalo ko nasuko mo sa ako ug andam kong mudawat sa inyong paghukom (Come down. To all my relatives left behind, I know you are angry at me and I am ready to accept your judgment),” Victor Apuga, another former high-ranking rebel, pleaded after citing how he and his family have benefited from various government services delivered right at their community which was once secluded and unreachable.

Poultry raising project of TESDA in Sitio Kaylawan

“Apan gusto nako mahibalo mo nga mao kini ang kamatuoran ug mao kini ang tinood nga gobyerno (I want to let you know that this is the truth and this is the true government),” he said.

Of course, leaving the rebellion can make one a target of the NPAs, so when asked about the danger of exposing himself to the camera, Victor Apuga bravely said, “Andam gani ko ihatag akong kinabuhi sa kalihukang way tumong, kini pa kaha na adunay kasiguraduan ug nahibalo na ko sa kamatuoran ug sa akong mga karapatan (I was ready to give my life to the senseless rebellion, how much more for this where there’s certainty and now I know the truth and about my rights).”

When Victor uttered those powerful words, it proved that the government’s change of approach—one that is more coming from a place of love and sincerity--worked.

The change of heart of these two married former rebels was the most evident sign that the government is winning and the insurgency is weakening. (Jan Vincent Leuterio, PIA-XI)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061944

13-35 year-olds, main target of CPP-NPA recruitment

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): 13-35 year-olds, main target of CPP-NPA recruitment (By Jan Vincent Leuterio)

DAVAO DEL NORTE, Dec. 18 (PIA) – The CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army)’s main target of recruitment are young people of age range 13-35 years old as found out by the 10th Civil Military Operation (CMO) Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

During the BIDA-Ambisyon Natin-ELCAC youth forum on Dec. 11, 10th CMO Battalion operations Officer, Captain Angelo M. Peralta, said that the youth are the most sought-after recruits by the rebellion because they are “open-minded, aggressive, adventurous, strong and physically fit”.

“In its early days, most of the support came from the youth sector. Ito yung dapat nating ma-iwasan, kaya dapat nating malaman kung paano na re-recruit ang mga kabataan (This is what we need to avoid, that’s why we need to know how the youth are recruited),” he added.

According to Peralta, the rebellion formed the Kabataang Makabayan for its youth members to stage peaceful rallies against the government; however, it turned to terroristic activities over the years and it became the major source of recruits of the NPA.

He explained that the recruitment is a “deception process” that starts with the recruiter or spotter befriending a prospect and inviting them to join meetings, workshops, and seminars where they identify the prospect’s strength, weakness, and interest.

From there, the recruit is encouraged to join different assemblies where they will be brain-washed by exposing them to social issues to slowly agitate them, then basic lessons for activism and other related NPA teachings are introduced.

The recruits will then become full-time activists, and among them are identified as potential candidate for the NPA.

After becoming a candidate member, the recruits will receive basic military course, and basic mass integration and organizational activities while they perform higher tasks such as agitating during rallies and protests, and coordinating with schools.

From there, they will officially become full-time members of the NPA, whereafter they can proceed to become full-time members of the CPP.

For the CPP’s target of recruitment, the youth sector, it includes students, out-of-school youths, young workers, young peasants, young teachers, young professionals, and all other major men and women who compose the majority of the population.

The BIDA-Ambisyon Natin-ELCAC youth forum was a half-day youth forum organized by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Davao del Norte and Provincial Information Communication and Knowledge Management Office (PICKMO) on December 11, 2020.

It featured three learning sessions on BIDA Solusyon: BIDA Bastonero/Bastonera, The Filipino Ambisyon Natin: Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Buhay by year 2040; and E.O. 70 Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict and Understanding the CPP-NPA Scheme of Recruiting the Youth.

The presenters of the learning sessions were: Department of Health Region XI (DOH XI) Health Education and Promotion Officer, John Marco Pitlo, on BIDA Solusyon: BIDA Bastonero/Bastonera, National Economic and Development Authority Region XI (NEDA XI) Senior Economic Development Specialist, Ruth Lasquite, on The Filipino Ambisyon Natin 2014.

10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army Civil Military Operations Officer, Captain Angelo M. Peralta on E.O. 70 Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict and Understanding the CPP-NPA Scheme of Recruiting the Youth was also one of the presenters. (Jan Vincent Leuterio, PIA-XI)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062079

IPPO condemns CPP-NPA's landmine attack in Iloilo town

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): IPPO condemns CPP-NPA's landmine attack in Iloilo town (By Lilibeth A. French)

ILOILO CITY, Dec. 18 (PIA) - - The Iloilo Police Provincial Office is enraged by the latest atrocity perpetrated by the members of local communist terrorists against the Philippine National Police personnel in Barangay Balicuan, Tubungan town at around 2:45 P.M. on December 17.

In a statement released today, December 18, IPPO said the terroristic act is a blatant insult not only to the desire of the Ilonggos for a peaceful celebration of the Holiday season, but also a clear manifestation of the continued defiance of the NPAs to the government's call for real and lasting peace.

According to the IPPO, the treachery of the NPA in an attempt to harm the government forces and its properties gives a strong reason for the Ilonggos to declare these terrorists as persona non grata.

“And the Iloilo police force will not rest in running after these terrorists who for decades are known only for sowing terror and deceiving the people,”said IPPO.

It added “Truly, nothing is clearer than this atrocity that the NPA remains a hindrance to realizing lasting peace and progress in the province of Iloilo.”

On the other hand, in a separate statement issued, the Police Regional Office 6 condemned the said landmine attack of the CPP-NPA.

PRO 6 said their violent act simply shows the real character of the CPP-NPA which intends to destroy the peace and order, create havoc and spread terror in the town of Tubungan.

It further condemned the use of landmine, an improvised explosive, to attack its personnel which is a clear indication that the CPP-NPA has no respect for human rights and never bothers if they would injure civilians living near the area.

The use of landmine is prohibited under the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction (or Mine Ban Convention), adopted in 1997.

Police Regional Office 6 assured that it will remain vigilant against enemy attacks and will continue to hunt down CPP-NPAs who are hiding and using the communities as their shield to evade the authorities. (IPPO/PRO6/JSC/laf/PIA6 Iloilo/Photo courtesy of IPPO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062085

9ID Commander welcomes returning CTG members

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 15, 2020): 9ID Commander welcomes returning CTG members (By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay)

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, Dec. 15 (PIA)— Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) Chair and 9th Infantry Division (9ID) Commander MGEN Henry A. Robinson Jr., PA, welcomed the ten (10) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members who voluntarily surrendered and expressed their intent to return to the folds of the law

Nine (9) regular CNT members and one Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) member voluntarily surrendered to combined military and police forces, Dec. 10, fifteen (15) days before the celebration of Christmas and decided to live a peaceful life with their loved ones.

“MGen Robinson, welcomed our brothers who decided to turn their backs on false ideologies and experience Christmas and the upcoming years living peacefully with their loved ones. He also lauded the troops for its dedication and sacrifices to stop the CTGs activities, bring them to the folds of the law and for stopping them in luring innocent civilians to join their cause,” Division Public Affairs Office Spokesperson CPT John Paul Belleza said.

Photo credits: DPAO, 9ID

The rebel returnees also handed overeight (8) assorted firearms which consists of M653 rifle, M16 rifle, calibre .30 US M1 garand rifle, 12-gauge shotgun, calibre .45 pistol, two calibre .38 revolvers, homemade 12 gauge shotgun, 3 rifle grenades, 2 anti-personnel mines, one magazine, assorted cartridges for various firearms and terroristic propaganda materials.

“They are now set to undergo debriefing and profiling as part of the enrolment process in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP),” Belleza added.

Under the E-CLIP, FRs will receive cash, livelihood, housing, medical and educational assistance as well as remuneration for every firearm that they turned-in.

MGEN Robinson attributed the continuous rise of CTG members who wish to surrender as an indication of the government’s success through the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC). The successful conduct of the region-wide Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) not to mention the effective interoperability of security forces are also considerable factors for its fight against terrorism.

MGen. Robinson also attributed this development to the growing support of the Bicolanos yearning for just and lasting peace.

“Sa mga kapatid nating dating myembro ng CTG na nagbalik-loob na ngayon sa pamahalaan, hindi kayo nagkamali sa inyong desisyon. Welcome back! Alam kong napakasaya ng inyong pamilya dahil ngayong darating na Pasko at sa mga susunod pa ay kasama na nila kayo. You can now sleep soundly because you are finally home,” MGen. Robinson said.

It can be recalled that just last September, 26 CTG members and one supporter also surrendered and publicly denounced the communist terrorism in Masbate.

“This only proves of the CTG’s defeat here in Bicol. They already lost their mass bases and their manpower and firepower are already crumbling down. There is no way they can ever recover from this. To the remaining members of the CTG, follow the footsteps of your former comrades. Their testimonies are proofs that the government is sincere to help you live a life worth living.”

“Huwag na kayong patuloy na magpalinlang sa mga lider ng inyong kilusan na ginagamit lamang kayo para sa kanilang pansariling kapakanan. Ngayong Pasko, kasama nila ang kanilang pamilya, kumakain ng masarap at natutulog sa maayos na higaan habang kayo ay naririyan sa bundok, nagtitiis ng gutom, pagod at pangungulila sainyong mga mahal sa buhay. You deserve a better life. You deserve to have a merry Christmas and the government is more than willing to give you that,” MGen. Robinson said in closing. (LSMacatangay, with reports from CJPBelleza, 9ID-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061803

Southern Tagalog NPA's top spy, revolutionary tax collector killed in Rizal shootout

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): Southern Tagalog NPA's top spy, revolutionary tax collector killed in Rizal shootout (By PA 2ID DPAO)

Part of the different items recovered by military personnel from NPA terrorists during an encounter with the military serving warrant of arrest December 17, 2020 in Barangay San Juan, Baras, Rizal. (Photo: PA 2ID DPAO)

CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal, Dec. 18 (PIA) --The regional intelligence and RBKU staff of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4A along with three other terrorists were killed in Brgy San Juan, Baras by joint AFP-PNP forces who served a warrant of arrest at around 2:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 17.

The RBKU or "Rebolusyonaryong Buwis sa Kaaway na Uri" is the one focusing on extortion efforts to generate funds for their movement. With this milestone, the NPA's source of funds will be greatly affected that will hamper their terroristic activities against our people and government.

Per report, the arresting party was underway to execute a warrant of arrest against Antonio Cule alias Dad, the Head of the Finance Staff and Execom member of the SRMA 4A for frustrated murder filed in RTC Branch 65, Infanta, Quezon — when terrorists opened fire that triggered the shootout and resulted in the death of five NPA terrorists and the recovery of two M16 rifles, one Cal.45 pistol, one Cal .38 pistol, one Uzi rifle, electronic devices, and voluminous enemy documents.

BGen Alex Rillera, Commander of 202nd Brigade identified the killed rebels as alias Sandra, wife of alias Luis, Secretary of Guerilla Front Cesar, and concurrently designated as SRMA 4A's RBKU staff and alias Onli, the terrorist group's Intelligence Officer.

Meanwhile, the identities of the three other dead terrorists are still being verified.

Rillera said the security forces were notified by informants from within the terrorist group regarding the whereabouts of alias Dads, the same information was confirmed by some of the locals in the area.

For his part, MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID emphasized that the Armed Forces will never rejoice in the deaths of our fellowmen, but may these recent encounters serve as a warning to the enemies of the state that we are committed to ending the insurgency that is preventing the growth and potential of our nation.

“The continuous neutralization of NPA masterminds in our area of responsibility shows the growing demoralization across the NPA ranks which will further push them toward the insurgency's nearing end."

It can be recalled that 2ID had its breakthrough in Mindoro just three days ago after an encounter that resulted in the death of four NPAs under the NPA’s Komiteng Larangang Gerilya Mark Anthony Velasco or KLG MAV operating on the island.

“These deaths will further push the rebels to rethink their violent ideologies, thereby fast-tracking our efforts to defeat the insurgency and liberate our people from the clutches of terrorism in this part of the country.”

Since 2019, 2ID has neutralized a total of six high-ranking NPAs across Southern Tagalog.

Cule currently remains at large, however, the state forces are exerting all efforts to ensure that he will be behind bars or suffer the same fate as his fallen allies at the soonest possible time. (PIA-4A/PA 2ID DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062009

P160M dev’t projects set for 8 conflict-cleared barangays in CAR

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): P160M dev’t projects set for 8 conflict-cleared barangays in CAR (By Susan C. Aro)

BAGUIO CITY, Dec. 16 (PIA) - - Eight barangays of the Cordillera region are recipients of various projects under the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP) which helps address development gaps in Communist Terrorist Group (CTG)- cleared barangays.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cordillera Regional Director Marlo Iringan reported there are 27 projects for implementation next year in the eight barangays with P20 million earmarked for each barangay for a total of P160M.

Recipients are four barangays in Malibcong and two in Sallapadan in Abra, one in Rizal in Kalinga and one in Besao, Mountain Province. The said barangays are part of the 822 CTG-cleared barangays nationwide allotted with a total budget of P16.44 billion under the SBDP covering various infrastructure projects.

Projects in Malibcong are school building, hydropower plant and farm to market road (FMR) in Dulao; potable water system, public school building, and FMR in Duldulao; potable water system, health station school building in Bayabas, and health station, potable water system and FMR. in Buanao. One project each for Bayabas and Buanao are pending as replacement in the original list submitted.

For Sallapadan, identified projects are four potable water systems and one FMR in Naguilian and one FMR in Ud-udiao. Additional one additional project for replacement is expected in barangay Naguilian.

Projects for implementation in barangay Balabag East in Rizal are potable water system, health center and FMR while one project is still pending. Two FMR projects will are lined up in barangay Tambaoan, Besao.

Based on the implementing guidelines, LGUs are required to submit documents by the end of February 2021 while funds are expected to be released by March so that implementation will take place before the onset of the rainy season, Iringan said during the meeting of the Regional Task Force in ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).

For SBDP in 2022, National Security Council Deputy Director General Vicente Agdamag said National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon expects the inclusion of other CTG cleared barangays in the Cordillera region.

The SBDP is lodged under the Local Government Support Fund administered by the Department of Budget and Management. The funds will be released directly to the municipal local government units in the CTG-affected barangays.

This is in support to the barangay development plans of the priority projects identified by the barangays in CTG areas which address their needs in the area under the whole of nation approach of Executive Order 70 to achieve inclusive peace in conflict areas. (JDP/SCA-PIA-CAR) 

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061924

Ilocos mayor highlights counterinsurgency efforts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): Ilocos mayor highlights counterinsurgency efforts (By Joyah Mae C. Quimoyog) 

SUYO, Ilocos Sur, Dec. 16 (PIA) - - During the Laging Handa Network Briefing aired Tuesday, December 15, Mayor Mario B. Subagan highlighted the counterinsurgency efforts of their local government unit (LGU), in partnership with the provincial task force to end local communist armed conflict (PTF-ELCAC), to end insurgency in their municipality especially in Sitio Kimpatubbog, Barangay Poblacion here.

According to the 81st Infantry (SPARTAN) Battalion, 702nd Infantry (DEFENDER) Brigade, 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, 20 residents of Sitio Kimpatubbog were deceived by the CPP-NPA to become members of an Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) and went against the government.

Through the deployment of the Philippine Army’s Community Support Program (CSP) teams on August 19 last year which later transformed to Retooled CSP on October 8 this year, said UGMO members withdrew their support to the CPP-NPA, thus, declared them as persona non grata in their barangay.

Since then, Mayor Subagan said that various assistance was given to the residents as part of the strengthened implementation of the Executive Order No. 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Department of Trade and Industry, under its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa and Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay-Livelihood Seeding Program, conducted skills training on Camote Processing and livelihood kits to 20 Camote processors/growers from four barangays here; the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority conducted skills training on Electrical Installation and Maintenance NCII to 15 residents of the said Sitio; the Department of Agriculture distributed more than 400 assorted vegetable seeds to the community; the Department of Social Welfare and Development awarded financial assistance, food packs and hygiene kits; the Department of Labor and Employment implemented its Emergency Employment Program or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) to 27 residents who received Php3, 400.00 each; the 81st IB of the Philippine Army along with Non-Government Organizations – SYGLAT Training Center and Lions Club-Candon City Chapter, provided Noche Buena packages and slippers; and the Municipal Health employees of Suyo delivered different services like free medical consultations and medicines.

“Ang mga tulong na ito ay simbolo na patuloy ang trabaho ng gobyerno sa pamamagitan ng ating LGU at ng mga iba’t-ibang ahensiya para magbigay tulong sa inyo kaya sana iisa ang ating paniniwala upang ang ating bayan ay mas umasenso pa,” Mayor Subagan said during the Serbisyo Caravan spearheaded by the member-agencies of the PTF-ELCAC on December 2.

Moreover, Mayor Subagan assured to fast track the construction of the 5.5-km farm-to-market road connecting different sitios and barangays, particularly the Kimpatubbog-Bito-Lubnac Farm-to-Market Road, to facilitate faster mobility and easier transport of agricultural products and to minimize the hazards encountered by inhabitants and to reduce travel time especially in case of emergencies.

“Naibigay na namin ‘yung mga resolusyon namin doon sa Task Force ELCAC upang ma-realize itong request na ito dahil ito ay nasa critical boundaries ng ating bayan Sta. Cruz at Sigay. Kung ma-realize ito, mare-resolba natin ‘yung ating problema sa insurhensya,” said Mayor Subagan.

“Ito po ‘yung isang nakita namin na pangangailangan ng mga kababayan namin para hindi na sila ma-engganyo ng ating mga kalaban sa insurhensiya,” he added.

He likewise urged his constituents to support the programs of the government especially in attaining peace and order in the community.

“Bago kayo maniwala sa kanila, sana, sabihin niyo muna sa amin ang problema. Laging nakasuporta ang LGU sa inyo at sana’y salubungin at suportahan natin ang mga programa ng gobyerno upang mapanatili natin ang peace and order sa ating bayan,” he said. (JCR/JPD/JMQ, PIA Ilocos Sur) 

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061879

PIA La Union to hold anti-insurgency youth forum

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): PIA La Union to hold anti-insurgency youth forum (By Joanne Namnama P. Dilim)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Dec. 18 (PIA) -- The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in La Union will conduct an anti-insurgency youth forum on Friday via Zoom application.

Jennilyne Role, PIA-1 regional director, said the forum is one of the advocacy activities of the Agency as the lead of the Strategic Communications Cluster of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC).

“The online activity is in line with President Rodrigo Roa Durterte’s Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70) which is a directive to finally end communist terrorism in the Philippines,” Role said.

She emphasized that for more than 50 years, the terrorist groups have been launching systematic attack against the government and mostly the youth are being recruited to join their armed struggle.

“The webinar will make the participants more aware of illegal recruitment especially among minors into the armed movement that is happening in the country,” she said.

Retired LTC Mario Jose Chico, Deputy Director for Operations of the NTF-ELCAC Secretariat, will serve as the key speaker.

He will discuss the salient features of the EO 70, insurgency situation in the Philippines, and OPLAN PAGBUBUNYAG.

Around 100 youth participants from the 20 local government units of La Union are expected to join the forum. (JCR/JPD, PIA La Union)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062031

51st Engineer Brigade hosts 1st downhill bike challenge

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): 51st Engineer Brigade hosts 1st downhill bike challenge (By Venus May H. Sarmiento)

MANAOAG, Pangasinan, Dec. 18 (PIA) -- The 51st Engineer Brigade of the Philippine Army based in Camp Tito Abat here recently hosted the first downhill bike challenge to promote healthy sports and tourism in the area.

Major Amadeo Panlilio, commander of the Engineer Support Company, noted that during a tree planting event in Mt. Paldingan in Binalonan town, bikers were having difficulty in the terrain because of obstructions.

With this, the 51st ESC initiated to clear and clean the area of obstruction and made the path conducive for bikers’ adventures and for bike challenges.

“Aside from clearing and promoting the area, the downhill bike race project has also provided livelihood to about 100 families in the area,” Maj. Panlilio told the Philippine Information Agency.

DOWNHILL BIKING: A biker struts his stuff during the 1st Downhill Bike Challenge initiated by the 51st Engineer Support Company of the Philippine Army in Pangasinan in partnership with the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board. (PIA/MSAB)

Some 125 civilians registered for the challenge while 10 are military men.

Luzviminda Obra, non-commissioned officer of the Army Transformation Roadmap of the 51st ESC, said it was her first time to join and she is glad to have finished at second place in the women’s category.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako dahil na-beat ko na yung oras ko at wala pa akong galos. Salamat po sa mga nagencourage na sumali ako,” Obra said.

Meanwhile, Lynn Ang, chairman of the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB), said the board has always been supportive of the initiatives of the Engineer Brigade as they are the link to the civilian people.

ARMY MSAB. Gen. Audrey Pasia, commander of the 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade (right) and Major Amadeo Panlilio (left) of the 51st Engineer Support Company of the Philippine Army, pose with the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board led by its chairman Ms. Lynn Ang and member- agency, Philippine Information Agency during the 1st Downhill Bike Challenge in Pangasinan. (VHS) 

“The board is all-out in its support to the bike challenge project as it promotes wholesome and heathy adventure but we also made sure that all the minimum heath protocols were met and followed,” the MSAB chair said.

Castillo said many bikers are clamouring for a second part of the downhill bike challenge which is why the project will be staged again next year. (JCR/JPD/VHS, PIA Pangasinan)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062050

Red-tagging of groups coming from Joma himself -Esperon

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 17, 2020): Red-tagging of groups coming from Joma himself -Esperon (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)

CALOOCAN CITY, Dec. 17 (PIA) -- National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. on Tuesday said the red-tagging of progressive groups did not come from the government but from Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison himself.

During the Laging Handa public briefing hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office, Esperon said it was Sison, in a video clip, who identified progressive groups allied to the communist terrorists.

“In the same video clip, Sison identified the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, Gabriela, League of Filipino Students, Bayan, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Kilusang Mayo Uno, and many others as his allies in the so-called "National Democratic Revolution", he explained.

He said it is Sison himself who red-tagged his "companions."

"Kaya siya mismo, kung may masasabi tayong-red tagging, siya mismo ang nag-red-tag, if others are saying that we are the ones red-tagging, it is Sison himself who did that," Esperon said.

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

He said no less than President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in a recent public address, went about informing the public about their deceitful tactics so that the public, especially the youths, won't be lured into joining them.

"Sa totoo lang, tama yung sinabi ng Pangulo na ini-inform natin ang public. We are informing, we are identifying them and that was for the information ng public para hindi mapasubo ang kabataan na sumama sa kanila," he said.

Republic Act 1700 outlawed the Communist Party of the Philippines of 1930 (Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas-1930), the Hukbalahap, and organizations succeeding them, including the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) and the New People's Army (NPA) on the grounds that these groups are involved in a "conspiracy to overthrow the government and imposed a totalitarian regime".

It also prohibited association with these groups. It was repealed, however, by then President Fidel V. Ramos in 1992 through Republic Act 7636. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1061987

DND: Makabayan solon’s baseless tirades vs. RTC judge confirms members are CPP-NPA fronts

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): DND: Makabayan solon’s baseless tirades vs. RTC judge confirms members are CPP-NPA fronts (By PIA-NCR Reportorial Team)

PIA file photo

QUEZON CITY, Dec. 18 (PIA) -- Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday said the Makabayan bloc’s baseless accusations hurled against Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert only confirmed their connections with the communist insurgents.

“With this act, the Makabayan bloc is not only impugning the character and integrity of Judge Villavert but the nation's entire justice system, as well,” Lorenzana said in a statement sent to the PIA-NCR.

“More importantly, the Makabayan bloc has confirmed what we have been saying all along that their members are fronts of the CPP-NPA [Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army],” he added.

With the statement, the Department of National Defense has joined others to support Villavert in the face of the Makabayan bloc’s “baseless accusations” that she had issued irregular warrants against activists and progressive groups.

“We firmly believe that a judge of the Honorable Villavert’s caliber does not issue warrants without probable cause,” Lorenzana emphasized.

Office of the Solicitor General

Earlier, State Solicitor Gabriel S, Villanueva, Office of the Solicitor General’s spokesperson for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), said the resolution filed by members of the Makabayan bloc urging the House Justice Committee to conduct an investigation on the warrants issued by Villavert against militants, does not fall under the power of inquiry of the legislative branch.

“The Legislative branch of government, much more any of its members, should not cross over the field of the determination of probable cause by the judge in the issuance of search warrants since, as earlier stated, the same is properly the domain of the Judiciary,” Villanueva said.

The government lawyer was reacting to Bayan party-list representatives who have reportedly been on a media blitz trying to discredit the judge who issued search warrants that resulted in the arrest of trade union organizers and a journalist last week.

The Makabayan bloc, on Dec. 15, filed House Resolution 1427 urging the House Justice Committee to conduct an investigation, in aid of legislation.

The resolution said it was Villavert who authorized the conduct of raids in various offices of some militant groups in Tondo and Paco, Manila and in Bacolod last year.

It also pointed to Villavert as the one who issued "questionable" search warrants that led to the Dec. 10 arrest of Manila Today journalist Lady Ann Salem, and union organizers of labor group Defend Jobs Philippines namely Dennise Velasco, Mark Ryan Cruz, Romina Astudillo, Jaymie Gregorio, Joel Demate, and Rodrigo Esparago.

The seven suspects, who are reportedly officials of the Metro Manila Regional Party Committee (MMRPC) of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), were arrested in simultaneous operations in Manila, Quezon City, and Mandaluyong.

Separation of powers

“House Resolution 1427 is a clear violation of the constitutional guarantee of separation of powers between and among co-equal branches of the government. In this case, between the legislative branch and the judicial branch of the government,” the statement added.

The determination of probable cause in the issuance of the search warrant, Villanueva said, is indisputably a function both constitutionally assigned and properly entrusted to the Judicial branch of government.

“What the Constitution underscores is the exclusive and personal responsibility of the issuing judge to satisfy himself of the existence of probable cause,” he added.

The contents of the House Resolution, he said, embody accusations that the issuance of the search warrants was founded on fabricated facts.

“Clearly the resolution was drafted not in aid of legislation, as Makabayan bloc claims, rather, to accuse and impose judgment to the judge who issued the warrants,” he said. “There is no re-examination of the law to speak of, as the mandate for the determination of probable cause in the issuance of search warrants is given by the Constitution itself.

Villanueva went on to say that the personal determination of the judge as to the existence of a probable cause is within the realm of its wisdom and it cannot be questioned by anybody unless there is grave abuse of discretion.

“The determination of grave abuse of discretion is also a matter lodged before the judiciary and not the legislative,” he added.

Accusations against Villavert, he said, amount to nothing more than an attempt to undermine her position as an impartial judge.

Lack of respect for rule of law

“This betrays their lack of respect for the rule of law. There are judicial processes by which they could have challenged the judge’s actions. If they have failed or have been remiss in their efforts to do so, it serves no one to attack a judge’s credibility and impartiality,” he said.

He added that a judge is under no obligation to lean to one side simply on the strength of their belief in their cause.

“The rule of law is paramount, regardless of where the chips may fall. We must not erode the public’s trust in the judicial system, simply because we find a judge’s ruling landing on the other side of the political divide,” Villanueva said. “Let justice prevail.”

Former CPP-NPA cadres

Meanwhile, the Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan para sa Bayan or SAMBAYANAN expressed disgust with what the group branded as “all forms of deception and lies” reportedly committed by Makabayan solons and other alleged legal front organizations of the CPP-NPA.

“They have made their usual covers and make-up stories of arrested CPP cadres claiming anew that they are just activists and union workers’ organizers. This has become a deceptive script of denial of the Makabayan Bloc,” lamented Joy James Saguino, Sambayanan media officer.

“It can be remembered that the arrest of Amanda Echanis aka Ka Waya, a top cadre of the NPA’s West Cagayan Front, has also been condemned by Makabayan Bloc claiming that the NPA leader Echanis is just an Anakpawis organizer in Cagayan Valley,” Saguino said.

“The apprehension of Geliejorain Ngojo aka Ka Mayo and Nasria Bansil aka Ka Ash after an armed skirmish between the 27IB and Guerrilla Front 55 at Paquibato District, Davao City was also condemned by the same communist fronts claiming that the two are just volunteer teachers of Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc (MISFI). Rey Christian Sabado aka Ka Nads, another former rebel, was also arrested on October 2, 2019 in Las Navas, Northern Samar,” he added.

“It can be remembered that Kabataan Partylist also claimed that Sabado was just a researcher of Northern Samar Small Farmers’ Association. However, the statements of Kabataan Partylist were debunked by Sabado himself after admitting that he was indeed a cadre of NPA Guerrilla Front 2 of Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC),” he furthered.

Sambayanan, as a multi-sectoral organization primarily composed of former cadres and members of the CPP-NPA-NDF, its former underground mass organizations and other organizations, which reject and condemn violence, terrorism and armed struggle, has categorically revealed the “duplicitous character” of Makabayan Bloc as a front organization of the CPP deceitfully participating in the Philippine electoral system.

“The Filipino people are already cognizant of this grand conspiracy of the CPP and its legal front organizations,” Saguino emphasized.

“Sambayanan believes that the arrest of these CPP cadres followed judicial process and we have high recognition of the Judiciary’s professionalism and expertise in the issuance of the arrest and search warrants. It is of great insolence for the Makabayan Bloc to attack the credibility of the Judiciary and to question the determination of probable cause which led to the issuance of warrants by Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert,” he added.

“This is an orchestra anew of the Makabayan Bloc to circumvent the law and divert from the matters involving the true identity of the apprehended CPP-NPA cadres. Through its underground organization of lawyers, the Lupon ng mga Manananggol para sa Bayan (LUMABAN), the program of the CPP is always to undermine the judicial process of the government,” he added.

“In this light, Sambayanan supports the continuing efforts of the Philippine Government in ending communist insurgency. We commend Judge Villavert on her will to stand with the rule of law against the lawless CPP-NPA. The recent arrest of top CPP-NPA cadres all over the country manifests the victory of the Filipino people. They have already rejected the communist program of the CPP-NPA. The whole-of-nation approach has been highly-significant and decisive in attaining peace and progress to communist-threatened communities. It has created stronger unities and convergence amongst all stakeholders towards our goal for a peaceful and progressive Philippines,” he further said.

Yes for Peace

Even peace advocate and Yes for Peace-Bayanihan ng Bayan organizer Ernesto Alcanzare questioned Makabayan bloc’s intent.

"I am just wondering since when did members of the legislative branch of government have the power to investigate members of the judiciary?" Alcanzare pondered.

"Will it not open the floodgates of legislative meddling on the administration of justice and therefore drain scarce government resources that should be used solely on coming up with legislation for the benefit of the people?"

To date, more than 15 million Filipinos have responded to the Yes for Peace campaign making it a cost-effective instrument that could unite the Filipino people against all forms of armed conflict. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062055

JTF-NCR ready to protect judges, govt officials against armed communists revolutionaries

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 18, 2020): JTF-NCR ready to protect judges, govt officials against armed communists revolutionaries (By Jimmyley E. Guzman) 

PASIG CITY, Dec. 18 (PIA) -- The Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday assured military protection to those in the side of the law who will be involved in defeating and containing insurgency and addressing its root causes.

"Rest assured that we will remain steadfast in protecting our government officials, including judges, prosecutors and those in charge of enforcing the criminal justice system, in ensuring that the rule of law prevails," the JTF-NCR, AFP said in a statement sent to the PIA-NCR by 1LT Arrianne O. Bichara, the group's public affairs officer.

The JTF-NCR, AFP then said it "actively supports" all joint offensives against communist-terrorist groups out to violently overthrow the government.

"The Joint Task Force NCR, AFP actively supports the recently conducted law enforcement operations by the PNP [Philippine National Police] wherein it served the search warrants issued by RTC QC Executive Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert who was solely doing her job, which led to the apprehension of alleged members of a criminal armed group and was later identified as Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Cadres of the Metro Manila Regional Party Committee (MMRPC) living on high end condominium units and exclusive subdivisions."

"The PNP followed the proper procedures during the application and service of the search warrants," the group pointed out.

The group also encouraged those involved not to succumb to the terrorist group's threats and remain steadfast in the government's drive to end armed conflict in the country.

"[The] JTF NCR, AFP as one of the partners for peace and development at the National Capital Region, encourage everyone to follow the path of peace and condemn those who employ violence and/or intimidation against their own countrymen, especially officers of the court," it said.

"Those arrested may avail of all the legal remedies provided under our democratic system including the right to due process," it added. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062060

CPP/NPA-Central Negros/Negros Island ROC: Pahayag sang NPA sa Serye sang Pagpamatay sang mga Inosenteng Sibilyan sa Guihulngan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 17, 2020): Pahayag sang NPA sa Serye sang Pagpamatay sang mga Inosenteng Sibilyan sa Guihulngan

JB REGALADO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS

LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

DECEMBER 17, 2020

Lubos ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army Central Negros ang asud-asod nga pagpamatay sang 62nd IBPA sa pagpamuno 62nd IBPA Commanding Officer Col. Melvin Flores sa mga inosente kag wala ikasarang magbato nga mga sibilyan sa Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Ang pagtiro patay kay Dra. Rose Sancelan upod sa iya pinalangga nga bana sadtong December 15, 2020 alas 5:00 sa hapon sa Brgy Poblacion, Guihulngan bangud lamang sang pagpasibangud nga kuno suporter sang NPA kag gina-akusahan nga amo si Ka JB Regalado bilang tagpamaba sang Leonardo Panaligan Command sang Bag-ong Hangaway sang Banwa.

Lunsay kabutigan ang nasambit nga akusasyon sang pasistang militar, kapulisan, mga vigilante nga grupo sang KAGUBAK kag mismo sang rehimeng US-Duterte. Ini isa ka matalaw nga tikang kag kalakasan sang 62nd IBPA batok sa mga inosenteng sibilyan. Gusto lang hinabunan sang pasistang makinaryas sang reaksyunaryong estado sa pagpanguna sang rehimeng US-Duterte ang ila kapalpakan sa pagpapas sa rebolusyonaryong kahublagan ilabe na sang presensya sang CPP-NPA sa Guihulngan.

Kadungan man sa kamatayon nila Dra Sancelan kag sang iya bana, ang pagtiro patay pa gid sa isa man ka inosenteng sibilyan nga si Israel Alsong sang Brgy Calamba, Guihulngan City.

Desperado man ang AFP/PNP, mga vigilante kag iban pa nga kontra-hublag nga grupo sa Central Negros bangud nahublasan kag palpak nga kampanyang militar, peke nga pagpasurender, pagpangwarta nga E-CLIP kag iban pa nga pasuni sang rehimeng Duterte sa pagpatalang sa pumuluyo idalum sa National Task Force-ELCAC (EO #70).

Bisan anu pa man, indi malutos ang NPA bangud sang madalom na nga suporta sang malapad nga masa sa Central Negros kag iban nga bahin sang isla. Indi man ma-into ang pumuluyo sa mga pagpatalang sang militar kag ni Duterte. Pabilin nga nagadamgo lamang ang pasistang militar, kapulisan kag iban pa nga anti-komunista sa pagwasak sang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sandig sa maragtason nga inagihan sang CPP-NPA gikan sa iya pagkapundar tubtob subong.

Segurado ang CPP-NPA kag bug-os nga rebolusyonaryong hublag nga samtang padayon man gina-atake kag ginabayolar ang tawhanon nga kinamatarung sang mga sibilyan sa pagpatuman sang anti-terror law sang rehimeng Duterte, maga-usbong ang armadong paghimakas sa kaumahan kag maga-ani sang malapad nga suporta ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan gikan sa pumuluyo kag madamo ang magpasakop sa New People’s Army.

Ginamanduan ang tanan nga yunit sang NPA idalum sa Leonardo Panaligan Command sa paglunsar sang lapnagon nga taktikal nga opensiba sa paghatag sang nagakaigo nga hustisya sa mga biktima sang pagpang-abuso militar kag pasismo sang rehimeng US-Duterte. Paslawon ang pasistang kampanyang militar, anti-terror law, Martial Law kag rumpagon ang rehimeng US-Duterte!###

https://cpp.ph/statements/pahayag-sang-npa-sa-serye-sang-pagpamatay-sang-mga-inosenteng-sibilyan-sa-guihulngan/

CPP/NPA-Southeast Negros: FMOs sowing terrorism in Sta. Catalina

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 17, 2020): FMOs sowing terrorism in Sta. Catalina

ESTRELLA BANAGBANAG

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SOUTHEAST NEGROS

RACHELLE MAE PALANG COMMAND

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

DECEMBER 17, 2020

The conduct of focused military operations (FMOs) in the 3rd District of Negros Oriental, particularly in the town of Sta. Catalina, has been synonymous with terrorism.

As these brutal and dirty operations often resulted in mounting cases of grave human rights violations victimizing unarmed civilians and non-combatants.

The FMO was conceived by the fascist-criminal Duterte clique as the “main hand” of its counter-revolutionary war. It aimed to crush the armed revolutionary movement through counter-guerilla deep battle operations.

It has been a dismal failure insofar as this objective is concerned.

From January to October this year, the 11th IB augmented by PNP combat mobile units and paramilitary forces launched five rounds of FMOs in Southeast Negros but resoundingly failed to strike and wipe out any armed unit of the RMPC.

The overwhelming popular support enjoyed by the NPA and the lack thereof in the reactionary armed forces rendered Duterte’s deep battle operations inutile.

Out of frustration in its failure to crush the NPA, the military bent their ire on civilians and engaged in various dastardly acts of trampling the rights of the people and sowing fear through terrorism in vain effort to quell the mass support for the NPA.

From July-September alone more than 40 cases of human rights violations ranging from extra-judicial killing, unlawful arrest and search, torture, harassment, coercion, intimidation, military occupation of communities and the like were documented affecting hundreds of settler-peasants in the areas covered by the FMOs, more particularly Sta. Catalina’s Barangay Talalac.

Furthermore, pressures from its top brass to produce results impelled the 11th IB to manufacture accomplishments like the 55 fake surrenderees and staged mass condemnation rallies against the revolutionary movement and enforced persona non-grata declaration by LGUs and people’s organizations .

Starting December 2, the 11th IB and 705th RMF, commenced its sixth and last round of FMO for 2020. It opened with Sauron-like assaults and raids of the residences of the family of peasant activists in two sitios of Talalac targetted by NTF-ELCAC for liquidation (tokhang) and arrest.

It looks like that the masses in the areas besieged by the ongoing FMO in Sta. Catalina will be celebrating Christmas with fascist guns virtually train in their heads.

FMO and the entire strategy of NTF-ELCAC is doom to fail as it has been thoroughly exposed as a tool of terrorism for the ruling class to perpetuate the unjust semi-colonial and semi-feudal system and Duterte’s fascist and terrorist regime. ####

https://cpp.ph/statements/fmos-sowing-terrorism-in-sta-catalina/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: NDF-Negros condemns the murder of Sancelan couple and the intensification of human rights abuses in Central Negros

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 17, 2020): NDF-Negros condemns the murder of Sancelan couple and the intensification of human rights abuses in Central Negros

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS ISLAND

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

DECEMBER 17, 2020

National Democratic Front – Negros emphatically condemns the continuing human rights violations in Central Negros.

The latest crime of the bloodthirsty butchers of the fascist regime is Dr. Mary Rose Sancelan and her husband Edwin Sancelan. Dr. Mary Rose Sancelan is the incident commander of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases of Guihulngan City. Before they were brutally murdered on the night of December 15, Dr. Sancelan was red-tagged and was included in an anti-communist hit list issued by Kawsa Guihulngan Batok Komunista (Kagubak). She was mistakenly accused as Ka JB Regalado, the spokesperson of Leonardo Panaligan Command New People’s Army – Central Negros.

The brazen killing of the Sancelan couple demonstrates the danger of red-tagging. At least two others in the list, Atty. Anthony Trinidad and Heidie Malalay Flores, have been killed with impunity in the past years. The fascist dogs are so emboldened to kill even at a time when the whole nation is gripped by the pandemic. The murder of a medical frontliner deprives the people of Guihulngan with the much needed health services amid the pandemic.

Around the same time and near the same area of the murder of the Sancelan couple, a 50-year old resident identified as Saeler “Israel” Alsong was also shot dead by unknown motorcycle-riding assailants. State terror continues to victimize the Filipino people in order to sow fear and silence dissent.

While death squads gets away with murder, peasant communities in the countryside are relentlessly harassed by operating troops of the 62nd IBPA.

The 2-week focus military operation of the 62nd IBPA left a trail of destruction to peasant communities in the hinterlands of Brgy. Budlasan, Canlaon City, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental and Brgy. Macagahay and Brgy Quinten Remo in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

At least three cases of illegal search on their domicile, harassment and interrogation were reported in Brgy. Budlasan, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental. Another four residents of the same barangay were beaten up by operating troops. In Brgy. Quinten Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, operating troops forcibly entered homes, took pictures, forced residents to surrender and threatened them.

The military also occupied schools in Sitio Cambairan, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City and Sityo Tabalogo, Brgy. Budlasan, Canlaon City in Negros Oriental and a church in Sityo Tubod, Brgy. Macagahay, Moises Padilla in Negros Occidental. This is a clear violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

On December 13, elements of the 62nd IBPA called residents from Brgy. Budlasan, Canlaon and Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan for a meeting and presented them as surrenderees.

These are just some of the recent blatant attacks and human rights abuses in Central Negros. It is the fascist Duterte regime that tolerates and emboldens human rights abuses in his reign of terror.

We welcome the result of the preliminary examination of the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court which found reasonable basis to believe that crimes against humanity were being committed in the government’s murderous policies, from the sham war on drugs to the threats and killings of human rights defenders, journalists and government critics. The FIlipino people must look forward to the conclusion of the preliminary examination and the possibility of a investigation of human rights situation in the Philippines.

It is imperative that freedom-loving Filipino people unite and link arms in order to demand accountability for the heinous crimes against the people committed by Duterte and his bloodthirsty cohorts. We call on all Filipinos to continue our fight for justice against state-sponsored violence. Ultimately, it is only through the victory of the national democratic revolution can justice be attained. ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-negros-condemns-the-murder-of-sancelan-couple-and-the-intensification-of-human-rights-abuses-in-central-negros/

CPP/NPA-Negros Island ROC: Gasgas nga kabutigan kag hinambog sang militar nga malapit na nila malutos ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa bug-os nga pungsod

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 16, 2020): Gasgas nga kabutigan kag hinambog sang militar nga malapit na nila malutos ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa bug-os nga pungsod

JUANITO MAGBANUA

SPOKESPERSON

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Bugtaw nga nagadamgo si Gen. Gilbert Gapay, ang Chief of Staff sang Armed Forces of the Philippines, nga malapit na nila nga malutos ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa bilog nga pungsod sa idalum sang termino sang tiraniko kag uhaw sa dugo nga US-Duterte nga rehimen. Suno sa berdugo na heneral, naglab-ot na kuno sa 201 ka katapu sang NPA ang napatay kag 264 nga na-aresto samtang may 7,615 nga napasurender. Kon sumahon ang mga napatay, naaresto kag nagsurender naglab-ot sa 8,080. Kon matuod ang ini nga datus, segurado nga nalutos na nila nga rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa pagpamuno sang Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) sa bilog nga pungsod, apang ini tanan gina-drawing lang sang militar agud ipakita nga nagmadinalag-on ang ila kampanya kontra insurhensya.

Kon madumduman, nagpahayag si Duterte nga iya wasakon ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa bilog nga pungsod sa tunga-tunga sang iya termino. Nakita nga indi nila kaya malab-ot ang target, iya naman ginliwat ang iya pahayag nga wasakon niya ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan bag-o matapos ang iya termino.

Amo man ini ang pasalig kag pangako sang mga nagligad nga mga presidente halin kay Marcos tubtob subong nga rehimen US-Dutere apang nagpabilin nga damgu ang ila mga pahayag bangud wala ini nagaserbi sa interes sang malapad nga pumuluyo kag sa baylo nga mawasak labi pa nga naglig-on ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa bilog nga pungsod.

Sa Negros, nagpabilin nga malig-on ang lima ka larangan gerilya kag padayon nga nagapalapad sang lugar nga ginahulagan sa pihak sang mga pahayag sang nag-agi nga mga brigade commander nga wasakon ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan sa idalum sang ila termino. Ini nagpamatuod nga napaslawan nga wasakon sang 302nd kag 303rd brigade ang mga pronteng gerilya sang NPA sa Negros kag rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan. Ang ila pagpaninguha nagresulta lang sang lapnagon nga paglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung kag nag-ani sang pagpakamala-ot sang pumuluyo. Sa pihak nga bahin, nag-angkon sang madalum nga suportang masa kag nagdamu ang nakigbahin sa armado nga rebolusyon.

Ang tanan nga plano sang US-Duterte nga rehimen sa kontra-insurhensya indi pa ang pagresolba sang ugat sang armado nga komplikto kundi kon paano makapangawat sa kaban sang gobyerno paagi sa ginpadaku nga gasto sa militar nga operasyon sang mga brigada kag mga batalyon, dugang nga patong sa mga ginapamakal nga kagamitan militar kag sopistikado nga mga armas, nagalagas sang reward sang mga kilala nga personalidad sa CPP/NPA nga may daku nga patong sa ila ulo kag paglagas sang promotion sa bahin sang opisyal sang AFP kag PNP.

Madamu man sang mga sibilyan nga biktima sang militarisasyon kag ginpangpatay kag simple lang nga gintamnan sang armas kag tawgon nga NPA. Kon pamatian ang mga balita bahin sa engkwentro sa tunga sang AFP kag NPA, masami ang pierde sa inaway amo ang NPA samtang hungod nga ginatago ang mga kaswalti sa bahin sang AFP agud malikawan ang kahuy-anan.

Duna na sa AFP nga magtimalus batok sa mga sibilyan matapos sang ila kapaslawan sa paglagas sa NPA. Pinakabag-o nga krimen sang uhaw sa dugo nga mersernaryo nga tropa sang AFP ang vigilante nga tipo sang pagtiro-patay kay Doctor Mary Rose Sancelan, tigpamuno sang Guihulngan Covid19 IATF kag sa iya bana sini nga si Edwin Sancelan, December 15. Si Dr. Sancelan ang ginredtag paagi sa paglakip sang iya pangalan sa kontra-komunista nga listahan sang tuig 2019 kag ginapabangdan nga si Ka JB Regalado, tigpamaba sang Leonardo Panaligan Command sang NPA.

Madamu man nga mga katapu sang progresibo nga organisasyon ang nangin biktima sang ilegal nga pagpang-aresto kag pagtanum sang armas kag eksplosibo. Bag-o magpungko si Duterte bilang presidente, lima lang ang bilanggong politkal. Sa subong, naglab-ot sa masobra 120 ang bilanggong politikal.

Ang ginapabugal nga kadalag-an sang AFP/PNP nakabase sa peke nga balita, peke nga engkwentro, peke nga pagpasurender, mga pato-pato nga kaso kontra sa mga katapu sang progresibo nga organisasyon, aktibista, kilala nga tagdepensa sa tawhanon nga kinamatarung, mga kritiko kag ang pinakamalala amo ang pagpatay sang mga inosente nga mga sibilyan.

Na-aprobahan na sang mga idu-ido ni Duterte sa Kongreso kag Senado ang ₱19 bilyon sang NTF-ELCAC para gastuhon sa kontra insurhensya sa tuig 2021. Segurado nga labi nga magalala ang korapsyon sa hanay sang AFP/PNP, dugang nga magasingki ang brutal kag makasiligni nga operasyon militar nga magresulta sang lapnagon nga paglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung. Napamatu-od lang kon ano ka berdugo kag tiraniko ang ini nga rehimen, nahublasan ang kina-iya nga kontra-pumuluyo kag dugang nga gatong sa nagadabadaba nga kaakig kag magatulod sa pumuluyo nga direkta nga magpasakop sa armado nga rebolusyon. Wala sang duda, si Duterte ang maayo nga recruiter sang NPA.

Wala sang plano ang tiraniko nga rehimen Duterte nga sulbaron ang ugat sang armado nga komplikto sa pungsod Pilipinas. Wala sini ginhatagan sang husto nga solusyon ang problema sang pumuluyo bahin sa pag-atubang sang problema sa pandemya, kapigaduhon, gutom, kamalahalon sang mga nagapanguna nga mga balaklon, mataas nga buhis, kawad-on sang trabaho, manubo nga sweldo kag halos wala sang benipisyo kag problema sa duta ilabi na sa mga mangunguma.

Basi sa nalab-ot nga rebolusyonaryo nga kusog, wala na sang kapasidad ang subong nga rehimen Duterte kag bisan sin-o man nga rehimen ang magasunod agud wasakon ang napundar nga rebolusyonaryo nga kusog.

Ang nagasaka nga isip sang pagpang-atake sa sibil kag politikal nga kinamatarung sang mga pumuluyo ang magatulod lamang sa mas madamu pa nga mga pumuluyo nga pasingki-on ang armado nga rebolusyon agud maangkon ang ila handum para sa pungsodnon kag sosyal nga kahilwayan kag demokrasya.

Samtang ang NPA ara sa maayo nga posisyon agud ipadayon ang armado nga paghimakas, depensahan ang kaayuhan sang pumuluyo kontra sa pagterorisa sang mga katapu sang pasista nga rehimen Duterte kag silutan ang mga berdugo nga may utang nga dugo sa pumuluyo. Bilang matuod nga hangaway sang pumuluyo, handa ini nga ipakig-away ang interes sang malapad nga pumuluyo ilabi na ang mga mangunguma kag mga mamumugon sa uma sa hambalanon sa problima sa duta nga madugay na nga gindingut sa ila. Matigayon lamang ini kon aton mapadaug ang Pungsodnon Demokratiko nga Rebolusyon paagi sa armado nga paghimakas. Mapaluntad ang isa ka sosyedad nga may pag-alalangay kag kalinong basi sa hustisya sosyal.

Mabuhay ang masang pigos!

Isulong ang Armadong Rebolusyon tubtob a kadalag-an!

https://cpp.ph/statements/gasgas-nga-kabutigan-kag-hinambog-sang-militar-nga-malapit-na-nila-malutos-ang-rebolusyonaryo-nga-kahublagan-sa-bug-os-nga-pungsod/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros/Negros Island: Padayon nga Pasismo kag Militarisasyon sa Central Negros Ginakondenar sang NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 16, 2020): Padayon nga Pasismo kag Militarisasyon sa Central Negros Ginakondenar sang NPA

JB REGALADO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS

LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND

APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Mabaskog nga ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army sa Central Negros ang padayon nga pagpanglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung sa sakop Larangan Gerilya sa Central Negros.

Disyembre 13, 2020 ginpatawag sang 62nd IBPA ang tanan nga pumuluyo sa sakop sang Brgy Budlasan, Canlaon kag Brgy Trinidad, Guihulngan sa Brgy Hall sang Brgy Trinidad, Guihulngan sa tuyo kuno nga magmiting, apang ang gatusan ka tumalambong ang gindeklarar sang militar nga mga surrenderee.

Samtang padayon naman ang operasyon militar, pagpanaka-saka sa mga kabalayan, pamahug, pagpanglitrato kag pilit nga pagpasurender sa mga inosenteng sibilyan sa sityo Tiyos kag Mamballo sakop sang Brgy Quentin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental. Padayon man ang operasyon militar sa mga sityo sang Mampayao Gamay, Mampayao Dako nga sakop sa Brgy Malangsa, subong man sa mga sityo sang Lukhan, Danikop nga sakop sang Brgy Tabon, Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental.

Disyembre 5, 2020 mga alas 5:00 sang aga, ang iligal nga paglusob sang 62nd IBPA upod ang mga katapo sang CAFGU nga sanday JR Vergara, Andres Tecson, Milo Davis nga nagpakana nga mga katapo sang NPA sa balay sang Brgy Tanod nga si Romeo Reyes, may legal nga pang-edaron, may asawa kag may kabataan sang sityo Malatanglad, Brgy Budlasan Canlaon City. Tuyo sang militar nga patalangon ang huna-huna sang mga pumuluyo sa lugar. Illegal nga ginpang-ukay ang balay, gin-imbestigar kag ginapahug pa ang panimalay Reyes nga kon maka-engkwentro sila sa NPA balikan gid ini nga pamilya.

Illegal search man ang ginhimo sang pasistang 62nd IBPA sa puluy-an ni Domingga Dela Paz, 45 anyos, may bana kag may mga kabataan sang sityo Malatanglad sakop sang nasambit gihapon nga baryo. Ginpang-ukay ang ila bilog nga puluy-an, gin-imbestigar kag ginpahug kag pilit man nga ginapatudlo kon diin ang kampo sang NPA.

Ilegal man nga ginsaka ang balay sang pamilya Gelacio sa amo gihapon nga lugar kag ginpang-ukay ang mga kagamitan sang nasambit nga puluy-an. Pilit nga ginapangita ang armas kag iban pa kuno nga kagamitan sang NPA kag pilit man nga ginapa-ako nga katapo sang NPA. Bangud inosente ang nasambit nga pamilya sa ila mga imbestigasyon, ila ginkastigo samtang gina-imbestigar si Robert Gelacio, 28 anyos kag soltero. Ang tanan nga kalalakinhan sa lugar nga nagakarga-tapas sa hasyenda ila man nga ginpasibangdan nga mga katapo sang NPA.

Sa amo gihapon nga adlaw, ginkastigo man sila Mar-mar Gelacio, Rodgie Gelacio kag Aming Gelacio sang katapo sang 62nd IBPA. Nagresulta ini sang pagsuka-dugo ni Aming Gelacio, haluson na makatindog kag napilitan na sa pag-untat sa pagtrabaho sa hasyenda upod sa iban pa nga biktima sang pagpangkastigo sang nasambit nga pasistang tropa militar.

Ang subsob nga operasyon militar nagsugod pa sadtong katapusan nga semana sang Nobyembre tubtob una nga semana sang Disyembre sa mga sityo sang Oyangan, Katuguisan, Malatanglad, Owayan, Tabalogo, Ihid kag Natuling tanan sakop sang Brgy Budlasan, Canlaon City. Subong man sa binukid sang Guihulngan ilabe na sa mga sityo sang Banderahan kag Cambairan.

Desperado lamang ang militar nga nagadali nga mapapas ang New People’s Army sa Central Negros. Pabilin nga nagsumbag ang pasistang AFP sa hangin sa pagpangita sang NPA kag maathag nga paslaw ang NTF-ELCAC sa Central Negros.

Ginakondenar man sang LPC-NPA ang paghimo nga kampo militar sang 62nd IBPA sa mga eskwelahan sang Sityo Cambairan, Brgy Trinidad, Guihulngan City, sityo Tabalogo, Brgy Budlasan, Canlaon City tanan sang Negros Oriental kag mga kasimbahanan sa sityo Tubod, Brgy Macagahay, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental. Subong man ang pagtiner sa mga Brgy Hall sang nasambit nga mga lugar sa tion nga ang militar nagapatigayon sang ila mga operasyon. Ini isa ka muklat nga paglapas sang 62nd IBPA sa Comprehensive Agreement for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

Ginapanawagan ang tanan nga pumuluyo sa Central Negros nga maisog nga magbato kag ibuyagyag ang tanan nga kalakasan sang 62nd IBPA kag sang rehimeng US-Duterte kadungan sa ginalunsar nga taktikal nga opensiba sang aton mga pulang hangaway nga amo ang New People’s Army.

Suportahon ang Armadong Paghimakas sa kaumahan kag angkunon ang tunay nga hustisya sang mga biktima sa paglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung sang pumuluyo nga direkta ginkomiter sa reaksyunaryong estado! ###

https://cpp.ph/statements/padayon-nga-pasismo-kag-militarisasyon-sa-central-negros-ginakondenar-sang-npa/

CPP/CC: Duterte’s state terrorist attacks make traditional holiday ceasefire impossible

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 16, 2020): Duterte’s state terrorist attacks make traditional holiday ceasefire impossible

CENTRAL COMMITTEE

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

DECEMBER 16, 2020

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and all revolutionary forces extends its solidarity with the Filipino people as they mark their traditional year-end holidays as well as the upcoming 52nd anniversary of the CPP on December 26.

The Duterte regime’s relentless state terrorist attacks and horrific anticommunist onslaught against the people, however, make impossible a joyful holiday celebration this year. For the broad masses of the Filipino people, these holidays are utterly bleak as they suffer from the severe economic crisis brought about by the regime’s corruption and willful neglect of the people’s welfare amid the Covid-19 pandemic and calamities. Duterte and his generals, on the other hand, are merrily going about their fascist ways, pocketing billions of pesos from bloated funds for counterinsurgency and his sham drug war, as well as kickbacks from foreign-funded infrastructure projects of his oligarchs and cronies.

Duterte has ignored appeals for a ceasefire to give the people even a temporary respite from the oppressive and disruptive presence of fascist troops in their communities, from the night-time barging in of armed soldiers into their homes, from the intimidation and threats to force the masses to “surrender,” from the massacres, killings, abductions, arrests and torture, the bombings and the portending fly overs of drones.

Instead, Duterte and his generals have ordered their troops to continue intensifying their armed operations and bombing runs even in areas that are overburdened by sufferings due to the recent calamities and government neglect, as well as to the continuing restrictions and clampdown imposed on the pretext of pandemic response.

In the face of the vicious attacks by Duterte’s military and police forces both in the cities and countryside, the CPP Central Committee is forced to dispense with the traditional holiday ceasefire this year. In the past, the AFP has always treacherously taken advantage of NPA ceasefire declarations to mount offensives against units doing health campaigns and other public service. The fascists have always displayed heavy-handed disregard of people’s holidays and disrespect for their customs and traditions.

Units of the NPA are hereby ordered to actively defend the masses and themselves against the attacks of the AFP and frustrate the enemy’s armed offensives and plans to terrorize the masses during these holidays. They can carry out tactical offensives especially against attacking troops of the enemy, particularly those who have perpetrated massacres and extrajudicial killings and who are notorious for grave abuses and violations of human rights.

At the same time, the CPP Central Committee urges all Party committees, NPA units and mass organizations to carry out secret meetings and assemblies to mark the upcoming 52nd anniversary of the Party wherever and whenever possible. Take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Filipino people’s martyrs and heroes, humbly celebrate the achievements and victories in the past year and strengthen the determination of the people to resist and end the Duterte regime’s brutal reign of terror.

https://cpp.ph/statements/dutertes-state-terrorist-attacks-make-traditional-holiday-ceasefire-impossible/

Opinion: CPP leadership continues to fall while NPA rebels surrender in droves

Opinion piece posted to The Manila Times (Dec 18, 2020): CPP leadership continues to fall while NPA rebels surrender in droves

By Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr.

THE Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) continues to feel the heat after the series of Senate hearings on red-tagging that practically stripped their legal front organizations of their underground cover. Despite the oath the reference persons took to tell the truth, the listening public cannot believe how the “Kamatayan” bloc representatives could lie through their teeth. They persistently denied involvement in the terrorist CPP-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and the former cadres of the CPP-NPA presented by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) could only watch in disbelief. In reality, we expected this “Lying I,” the first skill they are taught when they join these front organizations. In order to save face, they are left with no option but to lie about the allegations leveled against them.

These lies become more apparent in order to save or protect whatever is left of their crumbling CPP organization. After the series of arrests and neutralization of key CPP-NPA officials like Julius Giron, elected deputy chairman of the CPP in 2016, together with its founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison, came the death of Randall Echanis from the hands of its own ranks. It was followed by the arrest of Agaton Topacio and Eugenia Magpantay. Did the CPP and its allies cry foul about these “activists” being killed? Of course. In fact, Sen. Leila de Lima has been persistent in claiming that they are peace consultants. Huh?!

It is no surprise then that they will complain again of the government’s latest apprehension. Recently, the Philippine National Police arrested seven officials of the Metro Manila regional party committee, including its secretary, Rodrigo Esparago, and Lady Ann Salem. The Kamatayan bloc, the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) and Karapatan are once again shouting of “government crackdown on activists” and the suppression of dissent. Colmenares even assails Judge Villabert and complains that such action “resulted in the deprivation of liberty of numerous activists, in violation of their constitutional rights.” Activists? Really? And which constitution are you talking about, Mr. Colmenares? Are you referring to your CPP constitution? This is simply another cheap attempt to cover up the crimes of your beleaguered colleagues.

The Metro Manila Regional Party Committee (MMRPC) was once headed by favorite columnist and journalist of Manila Times, Ambassador Bobbi Tiglao, during the martial law years. Why don’t the NUPL and Karapatan, as well as the Kamatayan bloc, complain to Mr. Tiglao that these activists were simply red-tagged, so now they are in jail? Of course, they won’t do that knowing it could simply bury them some more in the mud.

So really, who is Rodrigo Esparago before becoming the sec of MMRPC? He was a member of the youth sector (YS) and eventually the Kabataang Makabayan (KM), the underground mass organization run by the party. Lady Ann Salem, on the other hand, came from Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), a legal organization, before she joined the Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions (RCTU), the underground party group running the labor unions through the KMU. From there, Salem rose to become the head of the regional trade union bureau (RTUB) of MMRPC.

Who still believes this alibi of the left? Many of these “activists” and progressive members have died with NPA rebels. Are we still to ignore these denials of the Kamatayan bloc? How many more have to die? Their accusations of red-tagging as a defense for their underground activities have been resolved in the Senate inquiry and by the Supreme Court. Supreme Court jurisprudence clarified a lot of issues but most importantly it has strengthened the position of the government that this Kamatayan bloc is part of the CPP and the government is merely identifying them as such. If you don’t believe your government, go to the website of the NDF, ndfp.org, and access all the NDF member organizations, including RCTU, KM and, yes, the NPA. You can also see there Lumaban, the underground org of the NUPL; Makibaka, the underground organization of Gabriela; Kaguma, the underground org of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), among many other organizations. They are all presented in their crimson red symbols and colors.

Red-tagged? Yes, but not by the government but by their own actions.

Meantime, there are so many positive developments at the tactical level and operational level. An entire front of the CPP-NPA has surrendered in Davao de Oro. A platoon has surrendered in Sorsogon. Another NPA platoon has surrendered in Masbate. And the Southern Tagalog regional party committee leadership, together with its regional operations command, are on the run in Mindoro. In the early morning of December 17, another encounter occurred with troops of the 2nd ID in Baras, Rizal during the arrest of NPA leader @Dads, the head of the finance staff and execom member of the Sub Regional Military Area 4A. This resulted in the neutralization of three top leaders of the NPA in Calabarzon, together with three others who have yet to be identified.

With all these happening, there is a possibility that the government will be able to bring down the CPP-NPA sooner. With the judicial affidavits that the NTF-Elcac has consolidated for the filing of legal cases against the Kamatayan bloc, the CPP and its allies are in dire straits and the NPA units and fighters dependent on them are in a moribund state.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/12/18/opinion/columnists/cpp-leadership-continues-to-fall-while-npa-rebels-surrender-in-droves/812784/