Progressive groups red-tagged in poster hung in front of Cebu church

From Rappler (Dec 30, 2020): Progressive groups red-tagged in poster hung in front of Cebu church (By LARA BATULAN)

San Narciso Parish's authorities do not know who or what organization is responsible for hanging the poster and agree to take it down

Progressive groups – including the National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP), Gabriela, and Anakbayan – were red-tagged in a poster hung at the San Narciso Parish gates in Consolacion town, Cebu, according to an alert from NUSP-Visayas on Sunday, December 27.

The poster called to put a stop to the movement of the "terrorist" Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the National Democratic Front (NDF), the New People's Army (NPA), alleging that progressive groups such as Gabriela and Anakpawis are linked to the communist insurgency in the Philippines.

It also urged a stop to the killings and recruiting of people to the named groups, listing crossed out logos of the CPP, NDF, NPA, and progressive groups.

NUSP-Visayas sounded the alarm on the "malicious and dangerous act of red-tagging."

“We hold the Duterte administration accountable for emboldening these acts that put real people in peril,” they added.

Netizens have also reacted negatively towards the poster, with many advocating against red-tagging, online.

While these incidents aren’t common in the municipality of Consolacion, cases of red-tagging have been rampant throughout the country in the past year, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(READ: Duterte administration sparks new legal offensive vs red-tagging)

According to San Narciso parish security, the poster was hung on Christmas night, as workers at the parish had noticed it by the morning of December 26.

Although the bottom corner says People for Peace Coalition-Central Visayas, the church’s authorities said they do not know who or what organization was responsible for the poster as there had been no permission to put it up.

Church security added that some members of the church congregation have expressed complaints about the poster, stating that the church must not have any political affiliation.

Furthermore, church security said local authorities have already taken note of this incident and have taken a picture of the poster.

Church officials have agreed to take down the poster, due to the complaints from both locals and other church workers, as well as its inappropriate content.

https://www.rappler.com/moveph/progressive-groups-red-tagged-poster-hung-cebu-church

Rody keeps intel funds classified

 

From the Manila Standard (Dec 30, 2020): Rody keeps intel funds classified (By Macon Ramos-Araneta)

President Rodrigo Duterte, who vetoed some provisions of the 2021 national budget, has refused to tell Congress how intelligence funds in the 2021 national budget would be spent.

In a virtual press conference, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte exercised his power to veto certain “unconstitutional items” before signing the P4.5-trillion national budget for next year on Monday.

Duterte said intelligence funds covered programs and projects "related to national security" and matters related to this "are deemed confidential or classified information."

"All activities involving intelligence gathering that have a direct impact on national security and public safety shall be directly submitted to my Office," he told Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.

"Consequently, I have to directly veto the proviso... which effectively requires the submission of quarterly reports on the use of intelligence funds to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate of the Philippines," Duterte added.

In the Senate, Senator Grace Poe said the government must pursue wise and timely spending of the newly-signed 2021 budget.

She noted that containing the pandemic, reviving the economy, and providing jobs for Filipinos remained the greatest challenges in making the budget work.

The impact of this allocation, Poe said. should trickle down to the Filipinos, especially those plunged into despair by the pandemic.

"The budget may not solve the economic crisis entirely, but it will certainly help us through it," she added.

Sen. Christopher Go lauded the President for signing the 2021 national budget, saying "I also thank my colleagues in both houses of Congress for having submitted the proposed budget on time."

According to Sotto, the security cluster "insists that there are members of Congress who are sympathizers or allegedly connected to the CPP/NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines/ New People's Army)."

"PRRD (Duterte) probably thinks it's best not to telegraph the Executive’s intel actions," he said.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin earlier questioned why programmed allocations for intelligence and confidential funds, as well as the government's anti-insurgency program, were higher than funding for COVID-19 vaccines under the 2021 national budget.

While Congress authorized the executive branch to disburse P72.5 billion for the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines next year, only P2.5 billion has guaranteed funding under the 2021 budget, while the remaining P70 billion needs to be sourced from loans or excess non-tax revenue collections.

Deilon added: "There is no definite revenue source for the purchase of COVID-19 vaccine but there are P16.4 billion for anti-insurgency and P9.5 billion for confidential and intelligence funds," he said.

Roque said Duterte vetoed the provision allowing agencies to directly use their income.

https://manilastandard.net/index.php/news/national/343214/rody-keeps-intel-funds-classified.html

23 ex-rebels get livelihood, financial aid in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): 23 ex-rebels get livelihood, financial aid in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)

ASSISTANCE. Former rebels who recently surrendered to the authorities were given livelihood and financial assistance under the national government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) during a simple ceremony held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan session hall in Barangay Suklayin, Baler, Aurora on Tuesday (Dec. 29, 2020). Also in photo were Aurora Governor Gerardo Noveras (fourth from left), and DILG -Aurora provincial director Ofelio Tactac, Jr. (fourth from right). (Photo by Jason de Asis)

BALER, Aurora – At least 23 former rebels who recently surrendered to the authorities were given livelihood and financial assistance under the national government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, commander of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, said on Wednesday the 23 former rebels who belonged to the New People’s Army (NPA) and Milisyang Bayan (MB) of the communist terrorist group (CTG) received their assistance in a simple ceremony held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session hall, Barangay Suklayin, here on Tuesday.

Rubio said that 17 of the former rebels received PHP65,000 livelihood assistance each while the other six were given PHP15,000 each.

“The E-CLIP benefits given to our former rebels will be basically used for their livelihood programs. It is also a good start for their daily needs especially this time of Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” Rubio said in an interview.

Lawyer Ofelio A. Tactac, Jr., Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Aurora provincial director, lauded the former rebels for choosing peace and deciding to return to the fold of the law.

“Ang inyong pagbabalik ay bagong pag-asa. Ang pakikipaglaban ay walang maidudulot na mabuti, kung titingnan natin ang mga bansang nagkakagulo, walang nangyari, walang umasenso sa giyera. Kaya tama ang desisyon ninyo na makapagbagong buhay (Your return to the fold of the law is a new hope. Fighting will not do any good, if we look at the countries that are in turmoil, nothing has happened, no one has advanced in the war. So you made the right decision to change your life,” Tactac told the former rebels.

He cited poverty and ignorance as major reasons for joining the communist insurgency.

Governor Gerardo A. Noveras assured the 23 former rebels that the provincial government is always open to help them.

He also advised to spend the assistance given to them wisely, especially in this time of the pandemic, and expressed hope that the beneficiaries will honor their commitment to the government with respect.

He said the DILG, along with the 91st IB and the Aurora Police Provincial Office, is always ready to assist them.

The DILG is the lead agency in the implementation of the E-CLIP, which entitles a former rebel to receive immediate assistance of PHP15,000; PHP50,000 as livelihood assistance; PHP12,000 to PHP500,000 as firearms remuneration; half-way house assistance; PhilHealth enrollment and medical assistance; education assistance; housing assistance; legal assistance; and healing and reconciliation initiatives.

The reintegration assistance is being used for the subsistence or meal cost of former rebels who have been placed under the protection of government troops while processing their other benefits under the E-CLIP.

E-CLIP is one of the programs under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), a body created by President Rodrigo Duterte through Executive Order No. 70.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126005

Delivery of primary weapons for Navy frigates set for 2021, 2022

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): Delivery of primary weapons for Navy frigates set for 2021, 2022 (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN) said Wednesday the surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles of BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) are scheduled for delivery in October next year and the first quarter of 2022, respectively.

"(Deliveries for) the surface-to-air missile is (on) October 2021 and March 2022 for the surface-to-surface missile," Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) when sought for updates on the acquisition of primary weapons of the two guided-missile frigates.

Roxas said the surface-to-surface missile project is under "Frigate Acquisition Lot 2A" and that South Korean defense manufacturer LIG Nex 1 would deliver C-Star missiles.

The C-Star is described as a "sea-skimming surface-to-surface anti-ship cruise missile".

Meanwhile, the surface-to-air missile project is under "Frigate Acquisition Lot 2B" and was awarded to MBDA, France, which would deliver a quantity of Mistral 3 anti-aircraft missiles.

The BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Antonio Luna are modern warships capable of surface, sub-surface, air, and electronic warfare using state-of-the-art electronic sensors, long-range missiles, acoustic guided torpedoes, and an embarked anti-submarine helicopter.

The BRP Jose Rizal was delivered to the Philippines in May and commissioned last July, while the BRP Antonio Luna is expected to be delivered to the PN by February next year.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125958

Air Force soars in service with new, modern aircraft

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): Air Force soars in service with new, modern aircraft (By Priam Nepomuceno)  

NEW AIRCRAFT. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (center) and Philippine Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes (right), lead the acceptance ceremony for the first six S-70i "Black Hawk" combat helicopters for the Air Force at Clark Air Base, Angeles City, Pampanga on Dec. 10, 2020. The Air Force is expected to further boost its capability to protect the country against all forms of security threats and help Filipinos in times of calamities through the acquisition of modern aircraft. (Photo courtesy of DND Defense Communications Service)

The year 2020 has been a challenging one as it saw the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) take a toll on the lives of the people and impaired various activities of both government and private sector projects.

However, despite the pandemic, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) soared to greater heights and is expected to further boost its capability to protect the country against all forms of security threats and aid Filipinos in times of disasters with the arrival of more than a dozen modern aircraft and helicopters this year.

First on the PAF's list for this year was the arrival and commissioning of its new Gulfstream G280 command-and-control (C2) aircraft, which arrived on September 20.

It was commissioned the following day and was used to transport personal protection equipment and other medical supplies to Davao City during its inaugural flight.

"The C2 aircraft will become part of a system designed for enhanced control of operations through continuous communications, especially during operational exigencies and emergencies. It will allow for time-sensitive decisions to be made while airborne, especially by the AFP chain of command, like the secretary of national defense; chief of staff, AFP; major service commanders; and commanders of the unified commands," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Aristides Galang said in a recent interview.



The Gulfstream G280 is capable of speeds of about 500 knots and has a range of 3,600 nautical miles. It can transport 12 to 15 persons, including the pilots and crew, and land on small runways.

The contract for the G280 was signed in early 2019 and was acquired via US Foreign Military Sales.

Super Tucano planes

Second on the list was the commissioning of six Embraer Defense and Security A-29B "Super Tucano" close-air support aircraft on October 14.

Four of the A-29B close-support attack aircraft arrived on September 19 while the remaining two arrived on October 1.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, during the commissioning ceremonies of the six "Super Tucano" attack aircraft, said these airplanes are a reminder of the "indispensability of airpower" in national defense and security.



Embraer company pilots flew the aircraft from the company airfield in Sao Paulo, Brazil and made fueling stops in the Canary Islands, Portugal, Malta, Egypt, Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, India, Thailand, and Vietnam before landing in the Philippines.

The A-29B aircraft were earlier scheduled to be delivered by the end of July but the pandemic and subsequent travel bans skewed the delivery timetables.

The aircraft, which will be part of the PAF's 15th Strike Wing, will beef up the remaining SF-260 and OV-10 attack aircraft used by the Air Force in strike missions.

The "Super Tucano" is a turboprop aircraft designed for light attack, counter-insurgency, close air support, aerial reconnaissance missions in low threat environments, as well as providing pilot training.

The contract for the six aircraft is worth PHP4.97 billion and was issued in late 2017.

Black Hawk helicopters

Earlier this month, the Department of National Defense (DND) held a ceremony for the arrival and commissioning of six out of the 16 S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters ordered from Polish company Polskie Zaklady Lotnicze Sp.z.o.o. and manufactured under license from Sikorsky USA for USD241 million (about PHP11.5 billion).

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

The acquisition of the "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters was part of Horizon 2 of the AFP Modernization Program.



Designated as a medium transport helicopter, the "Black Hawk" is capable of flying at speeds of 224 miles per hour (361 kph) and has a range of 290 miles (460 km.).

The first five S-70is were delivered via the Antonov An-124 heavy cargo aircraft to Clark Air Base last November 9 while the sixth unit arrived aboard a ship on November 27.

The remaining 10 are set to be delivered next year.

These helicopters are capable of transporting cargoes and personnel, medical evacuation, casualty evacuation, aerial reconnaissance, disaster relief operations, troop insertion and extrication, combat resupply, combat search-and-rescue, and limited close-air support.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125792

PNP inks security equipment deal with Israel

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): PNP inks security equipment deal with Israel (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas. (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, said Wednesday the police force has signed several contracts with the Israeli government on the procurement of security and defense equipment.

"The PNP has recently made history as several contracts for the procurement of security and defense equipment through government-to-government (G2G) transaction were inked in partnership with the State of Israel headed by (retired) Brig. Gen. Yair Kulas, director of IMOD-SIBAT, Ministry of Defense of the State of Israel," Sinas said in a statement.

These signed procurement contracts are for the supply and delivery of 13,457 units of 5.56mm basic assault rifle from Israeli weapons manufacturer Emtan Karmiel; 20 units of 7.62mm light machine gun from the Israeli Weapons Industries; and intelligence component for the PNP Secure, Mobile, Artificial Intelligence-Driven, Real-Time (SMART) policing program.

Sinas said the G2G mode of acquisition was based on Section 4.2 of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act (RA) 9184, which the PNP took advantage of as it has saved up to PHP107.7 million worth of government funds.

Under the contract, the PNP has closed the procurement deal for 5.56mm basic assault rifles of the same superior quality of rifles from previous procurements for only PHP35,280 per unit, much lower than the price obtained through public bidding from 2017 to 2019 ranging from PHP42,000 to PHP87,000 per unit.

“We have pledged to the President that the PNP will not allow corruption under my leadership. We will be transparent with our transactions and will use our taxpayers' money wisely," Sinas said.

He added that the signing of the contract manifests the PNP's commitment to further boost the capability of its personnel while working with Israel, which is a "world-renowned country producer of high-quality firearms and other defense equipment."

The huge amount saved for the government is the PNP's share for best practices under RA 9184 on the procurement of specified qualities of firepower equipment acquired under the mission-essential tools, assets, and resources.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125959

2020: Fight against Reds' atrocities, exploitation of youth

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): 2020: Fight against Reds' atrocities, exploitation of youth (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

MANILA – Groups and civil society organizations this year have joined hands to denounce the decades of attacks and atrocities committed by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA).

In August, anti-communist groups have begun launching various groups representing various sectors of society to condemn the atrocities and violence of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

The League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP) or the Liga ng mga Magulang was formed fueled by issues on the CPP-NPA’s supposed recruitment of the youth into the armed movement.

The Hands Off Our Children (HOOC), meanwhile, was formed which consisted of various parents of students who were reportedly recruited by militant organizations with alleged links to the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Meanwhile, other multi-sectoral groups including the Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), Sulong Maralita, Duterte Youth Movement, Movement of Women for Change and Reform (MELCHORA), and the Maralitang mga Magulang ng Maynila have actively participated in denouncing the long-standing communist insurgency committed by the CPP-NPA.

In August 27, the anti-communist groups marked their very first condemnation rally at the Mendiola Peace Arc in Manila as they denounced the killing of innocent individuals and what they described as “barbaric” and inhumane activities of the CPP-NPA, which included abuses on women and the youth among their ranks.

Fight vs. communist insurgency

While the pandemic shut down businesses and slowed down social life, anti-communist groups have intensified their fight to put an end to the terroristic activities of the CPP-NPA-NDF and its allied organizations.

More multi-sectoral groups including League of Youth for Peace Advancement (LYPAD) and Coalition for Peace (COPA), Kabalikat ID, Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terrorismo (KKDAT), and other organizations joined the call to end armed insurgency and struggle.

A series of indignation and picket rallies were held in various places in Metro Manila including outside the offices of several government agencies, foreign embassies, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

Appeal for Joma's return

The anti-communist groups have also demanded the termination of the asylum status in the Netherlands of CPP founding chairman Jose Maria "Joma" Sison, as they staged multiple rallies in front of the Dutch Embassy in Makati City.

The groups said the Dutch government should stop harboring Sison and let him face every rap filed against him.

The groups called on the Dutch embassy to remove all forms of protection given to Sison and the rest of the CPP founding members.

The group said they must be deported to the Philippines.

The anti-communist groups said the extradition treaty between the Netherlands and the Philippines allowing Sison to be sent to Philippine custody will give a huge relief to parents who fear for the future of their children who could be the next victims of the communist group's recruitment.

The groups also decried a book titled "Jose Maria Sison, Reflections on Revolution and Prospects", which was launch in the country in February.

They said the book is a part of the CPP-NPA-NDF's move to promote their “wrong ideologies and senseless cause”.

Protection of youths vs. recruitment

Groups have also heightened their call for the protection of the youth against the CPP-NPA-NDF's recruitment and exploitation of minors including student activists, out-of-school youth, and children of indigenous peoples (IP).

They also took a swipe at the Commission on Human Rights for being silent over the terrorist activities of the NPA and the cases of missing minors who were reportedly recruited by various militant organizations linked to the CPP-NPA-NDF.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia, however, said the CHR "has never been a supporter of the armed movement or the NPA," adding that the office is clear in its mandate to "support freedom and rights of expressing opinions based on the Constitution and not the armed conflict".

She said the commission has been releasing several statements condemning the atrocities and violence committed by rebel groups.

De Guia assured the groups that the commission remains dedicated to upholding its mandate and that it is willing to accommodate the groups’ sentiments, especially the grievances of mothers whose children were allegedly recruited by militant groups.

Anti-communist groups have continued to raise awareness on the recruitment of minors through online webinars and virtual discussions with other parents.

They heightened the campaign on protecting the youth against CPP-NPA's deceptive recruitment schemes through their allied organizations.

They used the virtual platform to denounce the CPP-NPA-NDF.

'Truth tagging'

While the groups vowed to be relentless in taking to streets their denunciation of the communist insurgency, the government, on the other hand, ramped up community programs for the NPA surrenderers through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

The NTF-ELCAC is a whole-of-government approach that has introduced the Barangay Development Program (BDP), a counter-insurgency plan which aims to deliver various government programs in conflict-afflicted and geographically isolated villages considered as "cleared" from the influence of communist rebels.

This program, the NTF-ELCAC said, has urged former NPA members to return to the fold of the law after realizing that there is "no good" in life while staying in the armed struggle.

The anti-communist groups hailed the bravery of the CPP-NPA's former cadres and members who have come out in the open to expose the deceptive recruitment schemes of the communist rebels through their legal front organizations.

Former rebels disclosed that students are the primary target for the recruitment process of the CPP-NPA, due to their vulnerability and innocence.

They even confirmed the ties between the CPP-NPA and the youth organizations belonging to the Makabayan bloc.

The former rebels bared the correlation and mutual relationship of the legal democratic mass movement with the revolutionary underground mass movement.

'Denial'

Contrary to what the former cadres have confessed, Makabayan bloc lawmakers in the House of Representatives have denied the allegations linking them to the CPP-NPA.

The representatives have refuted claims that their organizations serve as the recruitment arm of the NPA.

The anti-communists, meanwhile, criticized the Makabayan bloc lawmakers for repeatedly denying their connection with the CPP-NPA-NDF.

The groups also slammed Makabayan’s continued refusal to denounce the atrocities and other inhumane activities perpetrated by the communist rebels.

Remy Rosadio, LPP chair, said with so many stories of missing student activists who were allegedly recruited by organizations belonging to the Makabayan bloc, they only make them convinced that these militant groups are legal-front organizations of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

With these revelations, the groups urged the Makabayan lawmakers to resign from their posts.

Relissa Lucena, mother of Alicia Jasper (AJ), a student activist who was reportedly recruited by the militant youth group, hit the Makabayan bloc members for exploiting student activists.

"They are using the public funds to destroy our children, to destroy our families," Lucena said. "This armed conflict, exploitation of youth, and disgracing women's dignities will not end unless these politicians will withdraw their support to the communist rebels.”

Lucena is the founder of the newly created group, Yakap ng mga Magulang, which aims to address the roots of youth recruitment into communist groups.

As this year ends, the groups hope that the country will soon be free from the "CPP-NPA's lawlessness and cruelty." 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125949

Other AFP units to wait for official vaccine rollout: DND

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30. 2020): Other AFP units to wait for official vaccine rollout: DND (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Wednesday all remaining units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would wait for the official rollout of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine that will be acquired by the government before they can be inoculated.

Lorenzana made the comment when asked if other AFP units would have themselves vaccinated should another donation of Covid-19 vaccines arrive anytime soon.

"Huwag muna. Kailangan sundin natin yung procedure. Tinatag natin yung FDA (Food and Drug Administration) para meron tayong procedure dyan (Not for now. We have to follow the procedures. The FDA was formed so that we have a procedure to follow) because vaccines, medicines, and food are very critical items na hindi na lang basta-basta papasok (which cannot just easily enter the country)," he said in an interview on the sidelines of the ceremony for the 124th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal's martyrdom in Manila.

Earlier, the Presidential Security Group (PSG) said it had some of its members inoculated with a Covid-19 vaccine reportedly donated by a private group.

Lorenzana, also the chairperson of the National Task Force Against Covid-19, said the FDA has not tested the safety of these vaccines and the veracity of their medical claims.

"Yun ang dapat (That is the right thing to do), so there is a purpose for the FDA," he added.

Lorenzana said the PSG should explain to the FDA, as what it did was a violation of the agency's rules.

He also said once the planned 50 million Covid-19 vaccines arrive in May, front-liners, including medical workers, would be among the first to be given shots.

"So ang hinihintay natin dito yung inaangkat ni (National Policy Against Covid-19 Chief Implementer) Secretary (Carlito) Galvez na 50 million (Covid-19) vaccines. Meron pang mga negotiations, ang sabi niya ay the earliest is May (What we are waiting for are the ones imported by Secretary Galvez. These are 50 million vaccines. Negotiations are ongoing. He said the earliest is May),” Lorenzana said.

Once these vaccines arrive, those who would be inoculated first are the ones tagged as priority.

“(The) front-liners, (the) medical workers para safe naman sila sa trabaho nila (so they would be safe while they perform their work)," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126003

NDF/NDF-Northeast Mindanao: Through the leadership of the CPP, the people will end the tyranny of the US-Duterte regime

 Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Dec 27, 2020): Through the leadership of the CPP, the people will end the tyranny of the US-Duterte regime

Maria Malaya

Spokesperson

NDF-Northeast Mindanao
National Democratic Front of the Philippines

December 26, 2020

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines in NorthEastern Mindanao Region (NDFP-NEMR) warmly greets the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as it celebrates the 52nd anniversary of its re-establishment, today, December 26, 2020. Let us render our highest salute to all Party cadres and members and revolutionary forces who sacrificed their lives for the national democratic revolution.

Let us commend the persevering struggle and firm commitment of all Party members, the (People’s) Army and masses in NorthEastern Mindanao Region (NEMR). Because of them, despite unrelenting and intensified attacks, the US-Duterte regime failed to annihilate the revolutionary movement in NEMR and the whole country.

Majority of the people are suffering under the tyrannical regime of Duterte. His rule is marked by gruesome killings and attacks, corruption and of plunging the people in utter distress. The regime is inutile in controlling the rapid spread of COVID19 in the country. Its militarized measures and the blind obedience of those in power resulted to an increased number of sick and dying and destroyed people’s livelihoods.

In NEMR, militaristic measures hold sway in controlling the COVID19 pandemic. The politicians in power blindly imitated what Duterte’s IATF imposed in Metro Manila and prematurely halted the economic life of the region when it was still not necessary to do so and no mass testing and effective contract tracing were done to control the spread. Even though there was no COVID 19 case or there were very few cases, it imitated, without any hesitation, the lockdown that the National IATF imposed, in all cities and almost all municipalities which deprived people of their livelihood. Its claim of having the capability to deliver assistance to the people failed miserably because of bureaucracy, prioritization of military and police budget and corruption in government agencies. Officials of local government units, fearing the ire of the militarized regional IATF and Duterte himself, were silent on their inability to do so.

To conceal their inutility, the Duterte regime attacked government critics, right and left. To hide the serious corruption of people appointed in government agencies, they spread lies to destroy those who exposed corruption and anomalies of those in power. To stop the people from uniting and overthrowing him, he used fascism and made complete mercenaries of the AFP and PNP who he ordered to kill activists, critics, human rights defenders, media people, lawyers, doctors and ordinary civilians including the elderly. Because of Duterte’s assurance and arrogance, the police and the military are drunk with power making it easy for them to kill and violate human rights.

It’s as if there is no COVID19 pandemic in NEMR where military operations of the AFP/PNP continue in the mountains. It wasted millions, dislocated farmers and Lumad and destroyed sources of livelihood and food by indiscriminate bombings, utilizing expensive newly bought “advanced” military equipment, fake surrenders and giving rewards for the killings and implementing projects that are money making sources of military officials. It continue to kill, even progressives, file trumped-up cases against and connect them to the NPA, to silence them. We will not forget the gruesome killing of peasant leader Nora Apique and 3 farmers in Surigao del Sur during the COVID19 pandemic. They also killed elderly civilians Rolando Leyson, Sr., Josefino Calang and Ignacio Arevalo in Surigao del Norte for the sole reason of having children or nephew that are members of the NPA. They killed Red fighters who could no longer fight back like Ka Reb whose lifeless body was violated and Ka Joaquin Jacinto who was hors de combat because of his illness and paralysis.

Despite all these treacherous killings and other forms of attacks, the US-Duterte regime and his AFP/PNP failed to destroy the revolutionary movement in NEMR. The people are not deceived by the fake and forced surrender of ordinary civilians to show that the NPA in the region have been diminished. Through the correct leadership of the CPP, the Red fighters of the NPA-NEMR were able to defend the mass bases and not a single guerilla front in the region was destroyed. The Party became creative in uniting the masses to confront the effects of the COVID19 pandemic and underhanded enemy attacks that gravely violate human rights. Through the leadership of the Party, the Red fighters and masses learned new methods and overcame challenges. The revolutionary forces are always ready and alert of opportunities to strike blows against the power drunk military and police and deliver justice to their victims.

These gruesome acts of the US-Duterte regime will surely intensify the hatred of the masses against Duterte’s tyrannical rule. These will unite the boiling anger of the people to overthrow Duterte and his minions from power and make them pay, especially his generals, for the crimes they committed against the people. The brutality of his regime will hasten the enlightenment of the people on the correctness of the CPP lead revolution and will push them towards armed struggle.

Let us celebrate the anniversary of the CPP in small and creative ways while we look forward to bigger and more joyous celebrations in the future!

Long live the CPP on the 52nd anniversary of its re-establishment!
Join the national democratic revolution!
Bring the revolution to victory!
Unite and overthrow the fascist US-Duterte regime!


https://ndfp.org/through-the-leadership-of-the-cpp-the-people-will-end-the-tyranny-of-the-us-duterte-regime/

NDF/IIO: Masses, middle forces and foreign friends of the revolutionary movement demand return of armed city partisan actions

Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Dec 28, 2020): Masses, middle forces and foreign friends of the revolutionary movement demand return of armed city partisan actions

Press Release
28 December 2020

The call for punitive justice and calls to fight the fascist attacks against unarmed activists and civilians in urban areas by Duterte’s death squads dominated the discussions of the forum commemorating the 52nd anniversary celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) held online in Europe last December 26, 2020.

The online forum, which was organized by members of Compatriots (a member organization of the NDFP representing Filipino migrants) and Christians for National Liberation (CNL) in cooperation with the NDFP International Information Office, had as guest speakers Prof. Jose Ma. Sison, founding chairman of the CPP and chief political consultant of the NDFP peace panel, Luis Jalandoni, senior adviser of the peace panel and Coni Ledesma, peace panel member.

Addressing the participants’ pressing call for punitive actions and revolutionary justice for the unrelenting attacks against unarmed activists, peasants and innocent civilians, particularly in the urban areas by the AFP, PNP and Duterte’s death squads, Professor Sison acknowledged that such popular demand is widespread and that the conditions are ripe for the return of armed city partisans to counter the assassinations and impunity by the Duterte regime.

He explained that his observations are based on the 52nd anniversary statement of the CPP and reports published in the CPP’s website.

The increase in the number of guerrilla fronts, the people’s army, peasant struggles and the legal democratic resistance in the urban areas, Professor stressed, are basis enough for small teams of the people’s army to conduct armed partisan operations in the cities to mete out revolutionary justice against Duterte’s terrorist forces based in the urban areas. Because of the presence of many developed guerrilla fronts around many urban centers including the national capital region, the people’s army partisans could easily withdraw to the safety of these guerrilla fronts.

Professor Sison, however, emphasized that this is up to the leadership of the revolutionary movement to decisively undertake. “Experience will be the best teacher on how to do it,” he stated.

He called on the open democratic movement to undertake different forms of legal struggle as the Duterte fascist regime is increasingly isolated and hated by the people, especially an increasing number of the middle classes and the intelligentsia in urban areas as a result of the savagery of Duterte’s death squads against unarmed citizens.

Professor Sison also explained that there is no need for the revolutionary movement to shift to “urban insurrectionism” to deal a fatal blow to the US-Duterte fascist dictatorship, but instead strengthen the existing guerrilla fronts and expand them to prepare for the strategic stalemate, wherein the reactionary AFP and the New People’s Army would have reached a balance of forces.

He added that the number of forces of the people’s army today, based on the reports he had read, is far greater than that in 1986 which was only about six thousand regulars. The rise of younger under 30s red commanders would usher in more daring offensives, he said.

“The mentally and physically deranged Duterte is a far weaker monster who can easily be overthrown, than Marcos,” Sison concluded.

Replying on a question regarding how the movement overseas should respond should the Duterte regime exports its terrorist activities abroad, former NDFP peace panel chairperson Luis Jalandoni maintained that progressives and activists abroad enjoy some protection from the laws of their host countries. But that doesn’t mean, he stressed, that they are completely safe.

“Here in Europe, much is already known about the crimes of Duterte and his regime. That is why there is a case against him in the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the European Parliament issued a strong resolution against the human rights violations of his regime. In addition, the Royal Norwegian Government (RNG) which is a third party facilitator to the peace talks is always in close touch with the NDFP peace panel. Even the local police will be able to extend protection to us,” Jalandoni maintained.

“Our strongest shield are our solidarity friends, allies, and the firm support of our compatriots and migrant masses,” Jalandoni emphasized.

Professor Sison further disclosed that there is an assassination team deployed in the Netherlands by the Duterte regime against the NDFP peace consultants and panel members. He said this was revealed to him in March of this year by no less than the Dutch police which advised him to take precautionary measures.

In ending the tyranny of the Duterte regime, there is also a need to strengthen the broad united front even overseas, according to Coni Ledesma. She said Filipinos fighting the fascist regime can learn from the lessons in the Black Lives Matter movement in the US, and the justice and peace movement.

“Even in the face of threats, we should continue and persevere in the struggle. What Duterte wants is for us to be intimidated and silenced. Makibaka, hwag matakot!,” Ledesma concluded.

The forum commemoration was participated in by Filipino activists and allies from many European countries, including the UK.#

Ma. Lourdes Barros
International Information Office
NDFP
Utrecht, The Netherlands

https://ndfp.org/masses-middle-forces-and-foreign-friends-of-the-revolutionary-movement-demand-return-of-armed-city-partisan-actions/

NDF/CNL-Negros: Red Salute to the 52nd Anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines!

Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Dec 27, 2020): Red Salute to the 52nd Anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines!

Christians for National Liberation-Negros Island | NDF-Negros Island | National Democratic Front of the Philippines December 26, 2020

The Christians for National Liberation – Negros affirms its nationalist revolutionary struggle from within the collective formation of the Communist Party of the Philippines. The Party provides the consistent consolidation of forces both in the armed and participatory struggles.

We condemn the militarization in Negros island; and consistently call for justice of the victims of Duterte’s despotic military conducts in terrorizing both the rural and urban communities—the killings of farm workers; the jailing of our grassroots leaders and organizers; and the systematic threats on suspected rebels meriting assassinations.

This year, two dedicated Christian activists were grossly assassinated, namely: Zara Alvarez and Dr. Mary Joy Sancelan. Both of them were victims of the military orchestrated red-tagging and violent repression on activists. It is with certainty that their assassination is within the anti-insurgency program of NTF-ELCAC, in coordination with newly organized vigilante groups, like the KAGUBAK in Negros Oriental.

The Christians for National Liberation – Negros pursues an organized formation among church-people both in the affected communities and in church leadership. We have achieved already a sustained growth in our conscientization and mass work, and yet we continue working collectively relevant actions and programs in the nationalist revolutionary struggle.

As the Communist Party of the Philippines celebrates its 52nd Anniversary, we celebrate too our consistent revolutionary commitment—of serving the people! Padayon sa Paghimakas!

(sgd.) Bishop Eduardo Maglaya, D.D.
(sgd.) Fr. Mando Caldea
(sgd.) Sister Melchora Selang
(sgd.) Fr. Dominador Luna
(sgd.) Fr. Boy Marismo

https://ndfp.org/red-salute-to-the-52nd-anniversary-of-the-communist-party-of-the-philippines

Kalinaw News: Focused Military Operations ng Militar, mas pinaigting ngayong Holiday Season

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): Focused Military Operations ng Militar, mas pinaigting ngayong Holiday Season



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Mas pinalakas pa ng tropa ng militar mula sa 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division ang paglulunsad ng opensiba laban sa mga rebeldeng grupo sa South at Central Mindanao.

Ito ay ayon kay Major General Juvymax R. Uy, ang Commander ng 6ID at ng Joint Task Force Central, bilang pagsunod sa utos ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na walang tigil na putukan kahit panahon ng pasko at pagsalubong ng bagong taon.

Dahil dito, sa ginawang opensiba ng militar mula sa pinagsanib na pwersa ng 7th Infantry (TAPAT) Battalion at ng elemento ng 5th Special Forces Battalion kanilang nasagupa sa Bgry Datu Wasay Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat ang di mabilang na mga Communist Terror Group, nitong ika-26 ng Disyembre, 2020.

Umabot ng mahigit 20 minuto ang bakbakan hanggang sa umatras ang mga kalaban. Walang nasaktan sa tropa ng pamahalaan habang may bakas ng dugo sa posisyon ng kalaban na posibleng may mga sugatan o nasawi sa kanilang pangkat.

Sa ginawang clearing operation ng military, nasabat nila ang dalawang backpacks na may lamang mga pagkain, isang bandolier, limang magazines ng M16 (long), 127 rounds ng bala ng 5.56mm at isang Laptop charger.

Sa ngayon patuloy na tinutugis ng militar ang mga tumakas na mga rebeldeng CTG.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/focused-military-operations-ng-militar-mas-pinaigting-ngayong-holiday-season/

Kalinaw News: AFP pays tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal in 124th martyrdom anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): AFP pays tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal in 124th martyrdom anniversary

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joined the commemoration of the 124th martyrdom anniversary of National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal on Monday at Rizal Park.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is one with the whole Filipino nation in the peaceful and safe commemoration of Rizal Day. Your soldiers, airmen, sailors, marines and civilian human resources pay tribute to our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal who exemplifies our organization’s core values of honor, service, and patriotism,” AFP Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay said in a statement.

The AFP served as military host for the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies held at the Rizal National Monument in Manila. Meanwhile, National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the official representative of President Rodrigo Duterte presided over the activities.

Secretary Lorezana was joined by National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairman Rene R. Escalante, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, and Supreme Commander Sir Elihu A. Ybanez, KGCR.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the attendees were required to wear masks and face shields, and observed physical distancing. This was in adherence to the prescribed health standards/guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases.

In line with this year’s theme; “Jose Rizal: Inspirasyon sa Pagbangon at Paghilom ng Bayan”, General Gapay urged the public to draw inspiration from the national hero’s devotion and service to the country.

“The AFP wishes that Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom will continue to motivate our people to better serve our country. The preservation of the state is an obligation of every citizen, especially now that we are in this challenging time of a pandemic,” General Gapay said.

He added that Rizal’s noble acts to push forward patriotism, as well as his tireless efforts for continuous development remain as premier attributes that the military emulate.“We hope that each and every Filipino will draw strength and determination from what Dr. Rizal has fought for and accomplished to pave way for our nation’s independence and achieve lasting peace and security,” he said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-pays-tribute-to-dr-jose-rizal-in-124th-martyrdom-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: Joint activities enlighten villagers on NPA terror activities in Agusan del Norte

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): Joint activities enlighten villagers on NPA terror activities in Agusan del Norte



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The troopers of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion, in coordination with the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte and the Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted series of consultations and dialogues to provide enlightenment to the residents in the area on the realities of the terroristic acts being done by the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

The series of consultations and dialogues were conducted from December 14 to 22 this year in the six (6) communities of Las Nieves town. The activity was supported by the respective barangay councils of said communities and the group of former rebels (FRs) who now support the different initiatives of the government.

The series of activities were designed to address the issues and concerns of residents, particularly on the peace and order situation, the presence of NPA, livelihood, and the plans and programs of the government to bring more developments in the area.

During the activities, the FRs shared their past experiences, especially the hardships they had gone through while they were still part of the communist movement.

“Dili sayon ang kinabuhi sa sulod sa kalihukan kada adlaw nag sige mi og paniid kung aduna bay sundalo nga nag operasyon. Mas lisud na gyud ang kahimtang sa sulod ilabi na karon nga pandemya. Lisud ang pagpasulod sa ilang suporta ilabi na ang pagkaon. Daghan karon sa mga nagalihok sa NPA ang nakasinati og kagutom. Mao nga katong panahon nga naay higayon ni ambak gyod ko og ni boluntaryo nga mo-surrender sa kasundalohan.,” Alias Reyman said in his testimony.

Reyman also encouraged the residents to be united against the NPA terrorists by denying them entry into communities.

“Ayaw mo og too sa ilang mga pasalig kay kita ray giilad nila. Walay maayong kinabuhi sa sulod sa kalihukan. Undangon na nato ang pagsuporta, pagtabang ug pagdawat sa mga miembro sa CPP-NPA,” Reymand.

During the series of activities, the residents themselves admitted of providing support to the NPAs due to fear and intimidation. They said the NPAs usually terrorize residents whenever they are in the community and forcefully submitting the residents to their wills and demands for money, rice, and other necessities.

“Lisod kaayo ang kinabuhi sa mga katawhan kung adonay presensya sa CPP-NPA sa barangay. Dili makalihok ang mga opisyal sa barangay ug dili pud molambo ang komunidad kung magpadayon ang ilang presensiya. Ako, isip usa ka kanhing opisyal ug karaang nanimuyo niining barangay naga-awhag kaninyo nga magkahiusa ug magtinabangay kita aron atong mapanalipdan ang atong komunidad. Hiniusa natong isalikway ang CPP-NPA. Kung nahimo kini sa ubang barangay, nganong dili man nato kini mahimo? Ang pagsalikway sa CPP-NPA para kini sa kalamboan sa atong barangay ug kaugmaon sa atong mga anak,” Tatay Ernesto, one of the residents said during the dialogue.

The barangay officials from the different villages also urged their constituents to support the development initiatives of the government to bring peace and developments in the communities.

One of the barangay officials said that each resident is aware of their roles and responsibilities in promoting peace and development in their respective communities in relation to the implementation of Executive Order 70 (EO70) or the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end the local communist armed conflict. The barangay officials also expressed gratitude to the 23rd IB and the LGU of Las Nieves for the continuing protection they provide to the communities.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB lauded the participation of the different barangay councils of Las Nieves that made the activities successful.

“Your participation in our activities manifested your true intention of freeing and saving your barangays from the influence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs),” Paulo said.

He also asked the villagers of Las Nieves to cut their ties with the CNT and work with the government to address the peace and security concerns in their barangays.

“The absence of cooperation and unity among us has worsened the problem of insurgency. Let us work together to support all government initiatives and facilitate the delivery of programs, projects and services in your communities. Help us by simply providing timely and accurate information on the CNT presence so that we can protect you against their threats. Winning the war against insurgency can only be achieved through combined efforts of the barangay residents and the line agencies of the government,” Paulo said.

With the implementation of EO70, Paulo said government services can now easily be implemented even in the remotest villages of Las Nieves and in the province of Agusan del Norte.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining CNTs in the area to surrender peacefully to the government. “I urge you to abandon the CNT movement, reject its false ideology, lay down your arms and the government will help you as you go on another journey towards the right path of life,” Paulo said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/joint-activities-enlighten-villagers-on-npa-terror-activities-in-agusan-del-norte/

Kalinaw News: 4 NPAs, 1 Malisya ng Bayan yield to Army in Agusan del Norte a day after CPP anniversary

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): 4 NPAs, 1 Malisya ng Bayan yield to Army in Agusan del Norte a day after CPP anniversary



BUENAVISTA Agusan del Norte – Four (4) regular combatants of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorist (CNT) and one Milisya ng Bayan (MB) member in Agusan del Norte have decided to abandon the hopeless cause and ideology of the communist movement and surrendered to the troopers of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The surrender came one day after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) celebrated its 52nd anniversary last Saturday, December 26, 2020.

The four (4) NPA members were identified as Alias Else, 18, who brought one (1) caliber .30 M1 Carbine with one (1) magazine and three (3) live ammunition; Alias Dodong, 30, who also handed over one (1) caliber .45 pistol, Cal .45 Pistol with two (2) live ammunition, one (1) caliber .357 revolver and two (2) caliber .38 revolvers; Alias Rebo, 30; and Alias Indai/Bea, 23.

The MB member was identified as Alias Jimmy/Omar, 55, a resident of Barangay Durian, Las Nieves town who also surrendered one shotgun (ARMSCOR) with four (4) live ammunition.

Alias Else, Dodong and Rebo were active members of Sub Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) SAGAY, Sub Regional Command 3 (SRC3), of the North Central Regional Committee, while Alias Indai/Bea served as the Finance Officer of SRC 3, NCMRC.

In his testimony, former MB member Jimmy/Omar admitted that he was already tired of serving the CPP-NPA but he cannot leave the group due to fear for his life and the safety of his family.

“Nahimo kung MB sulod sa pila ka tuig ug wala nakoy mahimo kun dili sa pag sunod sa mga mando ug sugo nila kanako. Bisan taliwala sa kadaghan nakog mga buluhaton sa matag adlaw, mo gahin gyod ko ug oras sa pag serbisyo sa walhong grupo bisan pa man wala koy nakuha nga suhol. Wala gyod silay naitabang sa akong pamilya ug sa among barangay. Nagdugang lang sila sa kapobrehon sa katawhan ug naghatag kalisang sa matag usa. Karon nga ilang gisaulog ang ilang ika 52 anyos nga anibersaryo, naka disesyon ko nga mo biya na sa kalihukan kay wala man nako nakita ang kadaugan nga kanunay nilang giingon sa amo ug wala man usab nila tumana ang ilang gipang saad kanamo. Nabutang lang hinuon sa piligro ang among mga kinabuhi. Nakita usab nako nga sensiro ang gobyerno sa pagtabang kanamo busa nga wala na gyod ko mag duha-duha pa sa pagbalik sa pagbiya sa kalihukan. Gitalikdan ko ang kalihukan kay gusto na ko nga mag puyo ug malinawon nga layo sa kasamok. Gusto nako maka baton ug bag-ong kinabuhi labi na niining umaabot nga Bag-ong Tuig,” Alias Jimmy/Omar.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB welcomed the five (5) surrenderers and urged the remnants of the CNTs in the area to go back to the folds of the law and live peacefully with their families.

“I am glad that the members of the CNTs have recognized the sincerity of the government in helping the FRs and they have seen the deceptive tactics of the CNTs,” Paulo said.

The 23rd IB commander added: “Inside the 52 years of CNT existence, they were claiming that they were the protectors of the poor but as we can see, they only manipulated and exploited the vulnerabilities of the people to elevate their status in life. Instead of providing the basic necessities of the people, they only extort and harassed them so that they will follow the orders given to them.”

He further asked the remaining CNTs to start their new lives as the 2021 approaches by laying down their arms and return to their families.

“Leave your chaotic life behind and live peacefully with your family. Set your goals in life in order to live prosperously in the upcoming years. Let us help one another to stop the CNTs from conducting rampant exploitation with their rotten ideology that kills the future of our nation,” Paulo said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/4-npas-1-malisya-ng-bayan-yield-to-army-in-agusan-del-norte-a-day-after-cpp-anniversary/

Kalinaw News: NPA forces plummet as over 70 of its Pillars, 5 Guerrilla units fall in 2020

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): NPA forces plummet as over 70 of its Pillars, 5 Guerrilla units fall in 2020



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – The Communist Terrorist Group s (CTG) forces continue to plummet as 72 of its members belonging to the top echelon who were once considered to be pillars of its armed operations were neutralized by the forces of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) this year while four guerrilla fronts were also dismantled and a Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) unit was dissolved as part of the relentless bid to foil communist terrorism in the country.

Out of the 72 CTG leaders, 12 were killed, 44 yielded to the troops, and 16 were arrested on separate incidents in Eastern Mindanao.

Among the highlights of its operations was the neutralization of top CTG leader Alvin Loque, alias Joaquin Jacinto, who was the National Democratic Front (NDF) Mindanao and Komisyon Mindanao (KOMMID) Spokesperson.

Loque perished alongside his comrades after resisting arrest by the police and troops who were tasked to serve his warrants of arrest for multiple charges in Barangay San Agustin Sur, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on December 10.

A series of encounters between Guerrilla Front 33 (GF33) and troops of the 1001st “PAG-ASA” Brigade in the hinterlands of Barangay Sto. Nino, New Corella, Davao del Norte on December 12 also led to its imminent dissolution after the guerrilla unit s top-ranking leaders and regular members were successively arrested and had surrendered to the troops and the police in separate incidents.

GF33 is among the four guerrilla units that were dismantled by EastMinCom s units in 2020 along with GF56, GF6, and GF Tala including the Regional Guerrilla Unit, Pulang Bagani Command 4 (PBC4) of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

Beginning January until December 28, EastMinCom recorded a total of 5,985 neutralized CNTs where 83 were killed, 117 captured, and 1,393 surrendered. Over 4,300 members of the Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) and other allies also withdrew their support to the CTG in the same period.

The CTG s war instrumentalities were further weakened as troops captured 875 high-powered and low-powered firearms through combat operations and the surrender of former rebels. Troops also discovered a total of 251 enemy hideouts within the same time frame.

LtGen. Jose C. Faustino, Jr., the Commander of EastMinCom, noted these achievements as a sign that more and more CNTs and their high-ranking members have already learned the hard way that “guns and goons” are not the keys to our country s progress.

“The surrender of the top CTG leaders just gives a very compelling reason to the few remaining cadres and other members to abandon the armed struggle. If they continue to ignore the call of the government to surrender peacefully, then it will only cause them more harm than good in the future,” Commander Faustino said.

The Commander also enjoined the public and leaders of different institutions of our society to help EastMinCom in putting a stop to this nonsense armed struggle by being proactive in the endeavors being undertaken by the government for the sake of peace and sustainable development.

He reiterated that the country is on the right track in ending the communist armed conflict as different government agencies and other stakeholders are now knitted together for the cause of peace.

“To the remaining CNTs, now is the best time to yield to the government so that you can come home to your families and be one with them in celebrating the yuletide season, especially the New Year s Day celebration,” the EastMinCom Commander remarked, urging the CNTs to make the decision to surrender their new year s resolution.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-forces-plummet-as-over-70-of-its-pillars-5-guerrilla-units-fall-in-2020/

Kalinaw News: Former rebels receive E-CLIP assistance in Davao de Oro

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 30, 2020): Former rebels receive E-CLIP assistance in Davao de Oro



Mati City, Davao Oriental – The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) awarded the checks to 21 Formers Rebels under Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) at Provincial Government Office, Capitol Bldg, Brgy Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro on December 28, 2020.

Beneficiaries of the program are former members of the New People’s Army from different barangays of Davao de Oro who returned to the folds of the law to start a peaceful life together with their families.

Among 21 beneficiaries, 11 of them are Former Rebels (FRs) of 71st IB who received an immediate cash assistance worth Php15,000.00 and livelihood assistance amounting Php50,000.00 which was formally handed by Provincial Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy represented by Hon. Joseph T. Jauod, Sangguniang Panlalawigan member; DILG Provincial Director, Noel C. Duarte; and 1Lt Cherry Ann Malana, Civil-Military Operations Officer of 1001st Brigade.

A total of 1.3 million worth of checks were awarded.

Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is a program of the concerted efforts of DILG, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Provincial Government of Davao de Oro and other peace and development partners for those ex-rebels who left the armed struggle. It provides a complete package of assistance to include livelihood grants, trainings, and other assistance packages coming from various Government Agencies.

Lt. Col. Sonny E. Gonzales, Commanding Officer 71st IB said, “We are grateful to know that our FRs received assistance for this another new batch of awarding. This means that our Government is indeed sincere with its program.”

“We will continue to work hand-in-hand with Local Government Unit to give them the best benefit from E-CLIP.” Lt. Col. Gonzales, added.

“We, as your partners in this peace campaign is sincere in reintegrating former rebels in the mainstream society and in ending local communist armed conflict. I just want to commend these former rebels for choosing the right path and be part of building a better community.” DILG Provincial Director, Noel C. Duart said in his message.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-rebels-receive-e-clip-assistance-in-davao-de-oro/

Kalinaw News: High Ranking NPA-Mangyan Couples Surrender, Will Spend “New Year with New Life”

Posted to Kalinaw News (Dec 29, 2020): High Ranking NPA-Mangyan Couples Surrender, Will Spend “New Year with New Life”



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal – Two high-ranking NPA couples surrendered to the Army’s 203 rd Brigade in Oriental Mindoro after series of negotiations with the religious group from the Seventh-Day Adventist and Catholic Church on Monday, December 28.

Per reports, alias Elsie and Justin, an NPA squad commander and supply officer respectively, surrendered at Bulalacao town’s Brgy Benli and were the ones wounded during the encounter against soldiers at Sitio Taboy-Taboy on September 14 wherein a female terrorist got killed.

Subsequently, alias Gilbert and alias Delia, another NPA squad commander and supply officer respectively, surrendered to joint efforts of the AFP-PNP forces at Brgy Panaytayan in Mansalay.

Col Jose Augusto Villareal, Commander of 203 rd Infantry Brigade lauded the local officials and the religious leaders for being one with us in saving these abused Mangyans from the hands of terrorism.

“With the abuses that these former rebels suffered within the NPA organization, I am calling on the Gabriela representatives, especially Hon. Arlene Brosas and Emil de Jesus, to side with us and join us in denouncing the abuses perpetrated by the NPA terrorists against the people.”

For his part, MGen Greg T Almerol, Commander of 2ID, commended the NPA couples for their wise decision to free themselves from terrorism as they will soon welcome the coming year with opportunities for a new life.

“These series of surrenders across Southern Tagalog is a clear sign that the NPA is on the verge of irrecoverable defeat.”

The local government units are working closely with the AFP and PNP to expedite the processing of the grants and benefits under rebel returnee programs.

Since 2019, more than 700 terrorists have already surrendered across Region 4.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/high-ranking-npa-mangyan-couples-surrender-will-spend-new-year-with-new-life/

EASTMINCOM: Desire to spend Christmas with family urged 3 NPA combatants to surrender in MisOr

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Dec 25, 2020): Desire to spend Christmas with family urged 3 NPA combatants to surrender in MisOr

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental - Another three (3) active members of the New People's Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the troops of 58th Infantry "Dimalulupig" Battalion at Sitio Migbanday, Poblacion, Claveria, Misamis Oriental last December 10, 2020.

The NPA combatants were identified as Ben Domino Hangadon alias Kiram, 37 years old, and the Vice Squad leader of Sub-Section Guerilla Unit (SSGU), North Central Mindanao Regional Command (NCMRC). He brought along with him one (1) M16 with Serial No. 9064286. The second is his 30-year-old wife, Ana Mansinugdan Hangadon who is a Political Instructor (PI) of the same unit. Both are from Brgy Lawan-lawan, Las Nievez, Agusan Del Norte.

The other one is Jonel Talija Binongkasan alias Cardo, 20 years old from Sitio Sioan, Malinao, Gingoog City and a member of SYP Sikop, Guerilla Front (GF4A), NCMRC. He also yielded one (1) M16 with a defaced serial number.

According to alias Jai-jai, they decided to surrender to the government authority because they wanted to spend Christmas with their families.

"For more than 12 years of my stay in the organization, I was not given a chance to spend Christmas with my family. Instead of having rest and nourishing the holiday with my family, I spend it with nonstop walking in the mountain with my comrades chasing for nothing," said alias Jai-jai.

"The soldiers are continuous in hunting us down and many of our comrades died during encounters with government troops. That is why we decided to return to the folds of the law because we do not want to die in a battle that we cannot win," said alias Cardo.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB welcomed the surrenderees and congratulated them for choosing their families over their comrades and peace over conflict. "The recent surrenders of the NPA show the gradual downfall of the communist terrorist groups and reflects the effective implementation of the Executive Order (EO70) which institutionalizes the whole of nation approach to end insurgency in the country."

"I urge the other rebels to come home before Christmas and feel the real spirit of Christmas. Give up what you are fighting and give yourselves a time to feel the peace, joy, and love of your families this coming Christmas. Rest assured that we will ensure your safety as well as your families," Lt. Col. Canatoy said.

The surrenderees will be assisted in their enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) so that they could avail the package of benefits under it.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 58th Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamon, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/12/desire-to-spend-christmas-with-family.html

EASTMINCOM: CTG Forces Plummet as over 70 of its Pillars, 5 Guerrilla Units Fall in 2020

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Dec 30, 2020): CTG Forces Plummet as over 70 of its Pillars, 5 Guerrilla Units Fall in 2020

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - The Communist Terrorist Group s (CTG) forces continue to plummet as 72 of its members belonging to the top echelon who were once considered to be pillars of its armed operations were neutralized by the forces of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) this year while four guerrilla fronts were also dismantled and a Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) unit was dissolved as part of the relentless bid to foil communist terrorism in the country.

Out of the 72 CTG leaders, 12 were killed, 44 yielded to the troops, and 16 were arrested on separate incidents in Eastern Mindanao.

Among the highlights of its operations was the neutralization of top CTG leader Alvin Loque, alias Joaquin Jacinto, who was the National Democratic Front (NDF) Mindanao and Komisyun Mindanao (KOMMID) Spokesperson.



Loque perished alongside his comrades after resisting arrest by the police and troops who were tasked to serve his warrants of arrest for multiple charges in Barangay San Agustin Sur, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on December 10.

A series of encounters between Guerrilla Front 33 (GF33) and troops of the 1001st "PAG-ASA" Brigade in the hinterlands of Barangay Sto. Nino, New Corella, Davao del Norte on December 12 also led to its imminent dissolution after the guerrilla unit s top-ranking leaders and regular members were successively arrested and had surrendered to the troops and the police in separate incidents.

GF33 is among the four guerrilla units that were dismantled by EastMinCom s units in 2020 along with GF56, GF6, and GF Tala including the Regional Guerrilla Unit, Pulang Bagani Command 4 (PBC4) of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).



Beginning January until December 28, EastMinCom recorded a total of 5,985 neutralized CNTs where 83 were killed, 117 captured, and 1,393 surrendered. Over 4,300 members of the Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) and other allies also withdrew their support to the CTG in the same period.

The CTG s war instrumentalities were further weakened as troops captured 875 high-powered and low-powered firearms through combat operations and the surrender of former rebels. Troops also discovered a total of 251 enemy hideouts within the same time frame.

LtGen. Jose C. Faustino, Jr., the Commander of EastMinCom, noted these achievements as a sign that more and more CNTs and their high-ranking members have already learned the hard way that "guns and goons" are not the keys to our country s progress.

"The surrender of the top CTG leaders just gives a very compelling reason to the few remaining cadres and other members to abandon the armed struggle. If they continue to ignore the call of the government to surrender peacefully, then it will only cause them more harm than good in the future," Commander Faustino said.



The Commander also enjoined the public and leaders of different institutions of our society to help EastMinCom in putting a stop to this nonsense armed struggle by being proactive in the endeavors being undertaken by the government for the sake of peace and sustainable development.

He reiterated that the country is on the right track in ending the communist armed conflict as different government agencies and other stakeholders are now knitted together for the cause of peace.

To the remaining CNTs, now is the best time to yield to the government so that you can come home to your families and be one with them in celebrating the yuletide season, especially the New Year s Day celebration," the EastMinCom Commander remarked, urging the CNTs to make the decision to surrender their new year s resolution.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/12/ctg-forces-plummet-as-over-70-of-its.html

CPP/CC: Acclaim the people’s valiant struggles, mount greater resistance to end the Duterte’s reign of state terrorism

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Dec 26, 2020): Acclaim the people’s valiant struggles, mount greater resistance to end the Duterte’s reign of state terrorism

CENTRAL COMMITTEE

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

DECEMBER 26, 2020

[This statement contains extracts from the longer message of the Central Committee on the 52nd anniversary of the CPP which will be released over the next few days.]

The Filipino people are waging a valiant resistance against the vicious and horrific fascist terrorism of the US-Duterte regime. The regime’s military and police forces are committing gross barbarities to suppress and silence the people.

The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) salutes all its cadres and members, all the Red fighters and commanders of the New People’s Army (NPA), all revolutionary forces and the broad masses of the Filipino people for all the sacrifices they make in the life-and-death struggle to end fascism and tyranny and attain freedom and democracy.

The tyrant Duterte is responsible for innumerable war crimes and crimes against humanity. Police and military massacres and extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and abductions, torture and imprisonment are being perpetrated brazenly and with increasing frequency. The most atrocious crimes are carried out in the dead of night, especially in the rural areas against the masses of peasants and national minority people.

To consolidate his regime of corruption and plunder, Duterte has militarized and fascistized the entire government and the whole country. He placed the entire nation under de facto martial law rule by enacting the Anti-Terrorism Act. This is, in fact, a law on state terrorism which gives Duterte practically limitless powers in using the entire state machinery to suppress the people’s democratic rights with the aim of silencing all dissent.

Duterte is using all the powers of the counterrevolutionary state to perpetuate his tyrannical regime. Duterte aims to aggrandize more wealth and power, secure the future of the Duterte political dynasty and avoid criminal prosecution for his crimes.

With just above 500 days remaining in his official term, Duterte is set to accelerate the implementation of one or all of his evil schemes to perpetuate his tyranny: declare a “revolutionary government” and install a fascist dictatorship, railroad charter change on the pretext of “federalism,” or ensure the dynastic succession through rigged elections of her equally fascist, corrupt and power-hungry daughter.

The Duterte regime is the embodiment of the evils of imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. It is responsible for aggravating the social crisis and the sufferings of the Filipino people with its neoliberal, militarized and epic failure of a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, its corruption, over-reliance on foreign borrowing, refusal to prioritize people’s healthcare, and complete disregard for their economic well-being.

The socioeconomic conditions of the Filipino people are set to worsen in the coming year with the Duterte regime’s plans to impose new taxes on the people to finance debt payments. Joblessness will continue to rise as Duterte’s economic managers continue to rely on capital investments by foreign monopoly capitalists even amid global economic slowdown. In the countryside, peasants are being driven to bankruptcy by high land rent and high costs of production, land grabbing and encroachment by big corporate interests.

Duterte prioritizes counterinsurgency and kickbacks from infrastructure projects of his cronies and oligarchs. Response to the pandemic remains inept and riddled with corruption in the botched plans to purchase vaccines. While the regime allotted a mere ₱2 billion for the purchase of vaccines, a whopping ₱19 billion was granted to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to gratify his loyalist generals. While it allocated around ₱33 billion for “AFP modernization” it allotted ₱0 for the urgent need to modernize the public education and health systems.

Duterte does not have the voluntary and wholehearted support of the masses. What he claims and projects as support is, in fact, forced obedience and compliance exacted through fear with having the military and police invade almost all aspects of civil life.

Duterte is politically isolated from the rest of the people. He mortally fears the people. He is deeply hated by the people for his campaign of mass murder against the poor in its drug war sham, for the massacre of their jobs and loss of income and bankruptcy, for the onerous taxes and rising prices, and for causing hunger, widespread poverty, misery and economic desperation.

The broad masses are outraged by Duterte’s brazen corruption and insatiability in bulldozing infrastructure projects and abuse of power to take over protectorship of the drug syndicates in the country.

His regime has resorted to intensified political repression and armed suppression to prevent the masses from rising up in numbers. It is using red-tagging and terrorist-labelling to neutralize the legal democratic forces and hamper their efforts to give a voice to the grievances of the people.

Labor organizers, critical media, human rights defenders and others dissenters have been subjected to surveillance, harassment, arrests, trumped up charges and prolonged detention. The attacks against them are set to further intensify with the use of the regime’s law on state terrorism.

In its desperation to stop the growth of the New People’s Army, the Duterte regime has mobilized close to 150 battalions (around 50,000) combat troops to conduct focused military operations against the NPA’s guerrilla fronts. These troops occupy rural villages and subject the peasant masses to armed suppression.

The AFP continues to squander billions upon billions of pesos of people’s money to acquire fighter jets, helicopters and drones to intensify aerial bombardment campaigns which have caused widespread fear and trauma among the rural population, as well as damage to their farms and the environment, even as these have been largely ineffective against the NPA.

Duterte, however, cannot forever perpetuate himself through armed suppression. In fact, the more that Duterte resorts to massacres and killings, the more that the people are roused to fight back. The broad masses of the Filipino people will not allow themselves to suffer forever the intolerable socioeconomic conditions and political repression under the Duterte regime.

While the tyrant Duterte pretends to be strong and powerful, he is in fact weak and tottering as he sits atop a rotten system made bankrupt by its corruption and subservience to foreign capitalists interests. It is unable to satisfy its greed without taking away resources to address the basic needs of the people. It is being weakened by bickering among his insatiable cronies and minions.

The chronic crisis of the ruling semicolonial and semifeudal system is worsening under the Duterte regime. It is stoking the fires of resistance of the Filipino masses.

The broad masses of workers, peasants and unemployed semiproletariat, who comprise the majority of the Filipino people, are being roused to unite and collectively take action to fight for their urgent demands amid the severe economic crisis and pandemic. The urban intellectuals and professionals are ready to join them in alliance to support their clamor for wage increases, suspension of land rent and debt collection, social subsidies, free distribution of Covid-19 vaccines and health service and other demands.

The regime’s relentless attacks and use of the state terror law is rousing various democratic forces and compelling them to strengthen and expand the broad antifascist united front. They must continue to generate broad international support by exposing the crimes of the Duterte regime perpetrated in the course of its sham drug war and dirty war of suppression.

The New People’s Army will continue to strengthen as it surmounts the all-out offensives of the AFP through mastery of guerrilla tactics. Some NPA units are determined to recover from the losses they suffered in some parts of the country over the past years largely as a result of the inability to quickly adapt to the enemy’s tactics of large-scale focused military offensives.

Most of the NPA commands have adapted to the enemy’s tactics and succeeded in expanding their guerrilla territories and forming new guerrilla fronts or expanding existing guerrilla fronts, while strengthening and deepening the support of the peasant masses by assisting in their antifeudal struggles.

The NPA is accumulating military and political successes even in the areas under the AFP’s concentrated offensives such as in Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Negros and Southern Tagalog. NPA units have availed of a wider area for guerrilla maneuver and are successfully evading enemy efforts at encirclement and mounting tactical offensives from the enemy’s flanks or rear.

There are excellent examples of tactical offensives in Bicol, Southern Tagalog, Negros, Eastern Visayas, Northeast Mindanao, North Central Mindanao and Far South Mindanao where NPA units dealt blows against enemy operating troops engaged in focused military operations.

Despite great counterrevolutionary adversity, the Party and all revolutionary forces have stood courageously to fight for the interests and welfare of the Filipino people and to advance their national democratic cause. The Party continues to consolidate and gain strength.

It remains ideologically firm through the constant study and application of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, and through self-critical assessment of its work. It remains organizationally strong by building new branches and training new cadres and leaders. It continues to gain political strength by deepening its roots among the masses and providing them leadership in their mass struggles and armed resistance. The Party firmly wields the New People’s Army and will lead it to surmount and defeat the AFP’s all-out offensives.

The Party takes pride for continuing the militant and revolutionary tradition of the Katipunan, for selflessly serving the broad masses of the Filipino people, for self-reliantly growing in strength and persevering along the revolutionary path, and for serving as one of the beacons of the international communist movement.

The Filipino people are proud of the Communist Party of the Philippines and their revolutionary forces for having enabled and empowered them to stand for their rights and to fight for national freedom and social justice.

With the guidance and leadership of the Party, and with the New People’s Army by their side, the broad masses of the Filipino people have persisted in more than five decades of armed struggle and revolutionary resistance. They are united and imbued with the indomitable spirit of revolution. They will never be subdued.

The Party will continue to rouse, inspire and lead the broad masses of the Filipino people in their resistance against the Duterte regime’s reign of terror and evil. Through sacrifices and arduous struggle, victory in the fight for freedom and democracy is certain. The Philippine revolution will continue to flourish.

https://cpp.ph/statements/acclaim-the-peoples-valiant-struggles-mount-greater-resistance-to-end-the-dutertes-reign-of-state-terrorism/