Anti-communist terrorist campaign commences for MisOr youth

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 9, 2021): Anti-communist terrorist campaign commences for MisOr youth (By 1LT JEFFERSON M MARIANO (INF) PA) 

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental, April 9 --The 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion (IB) conducted a three-day online information drive to the students of St. Peter’s College of Balingasag through video teleconferencing (VTC), March 29 -31.

Recognizing that communist insurgency has lasted for decades, the 58IB considers the CPP-NPA-NDF poses a major threat to the youth of Misamis Oriental, thus it is initiating an awareness campaign in the province’s universities and colleges.

The information drive, dubbed “Lamang ang May Alam: An Anti CPP-NPA-NDF Youth Recruitment Online Info Drive” is designed for senior high school and college students as they are the targets of NPA recruitment, as it makes the schools platforms in its recruitment activities.

Many seemingly harmless student organizations have ulterior motive of deceiving the young to support the CPP-NPA-NDF’s cause, and ultimately enter the armed struggle, falling victim to the pitfalls of the enemy, the government forces observed.

During the first wave of the information drive, the 58IB was able to reach out to approximately 300 students of St. Peter’s College of Balingasag, and delivered lectures on the Army and the Government’s interventions in coping with communist insurgency in the country against the CPP-NPA-NDF’s recruitment schemes.

The primary objective was to educate students about youth recruitment schemes and persuade them not to help or join the CPP-NPA-NDF in any way; the secondary objective was to have the students informed on the government’s efforts in fighting insurgency and protecting the youth.

The activity became very engaging between the students and the 58IB troops, with many of themsaying they were unaware of the CPP-NPA-NDF’s manipulative methods in exploiting their personal issues in order to convince them to enter the Communist Terrorist Group. Some of them also shread their opinions through an online survey.

“They're only destroying the youth. They are destroying our country. For them, no government is doing its job because they wanted to take the lead. Leading to what? To insurgency, to killing innocents and recruiting the youth and bring to the mountains. I urge the communist terrorist group to stop using our vulnerabilities by deceiving us into joining their cause. Stop your propaganda. Stop the killings. Stop the deceptions. Stop the lies. Stop recruiting minors," one of the students said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB expressed appreciation to the students and the school for their support and for allowing the 58IB to conduct an information drive.

“We are doing this activity to warn you of the CPP-NPA-NDF's true intentions, which is to kill and harm the future of our youth. ‘Ang Kabataan ang pag-asa ng Bayan,' as Dr. Jose Rizal put it. I hope you can stand up to it and do what is best for you, which is doing the right thing. Be wise on your choices. There may be social issues and injustices that the CTG uses as propaganda, but rest assured that, in the midst of the pandemic, the government is working hand in hand to ensure the delivery of services to the people, and particularly to deter the growth of this terrorist group that continues to threaten the state's sovereignty. This is only the beginning, as 58IB envisions thal all colleges and universities in Misamis Oriental be informed and aware on the CPP/NPA/NDF’s recruitment schemes," he said. (403Bgde/PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071597

ICPSS training to help distant villages become conflict-resilient, says Army officer

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): ICPSS training to help distant villages become conflict-resilient, says Army officer (By Ninfa Barcena-Quirante)

BORONGAN CITY, April 8 (PIA)-- Some 19 elements of the 78th Infantry Battalion attended a 21-day Integrated Community Public Safety System (ICPSS) Trainers Training at the 801st Brigade in Brgy. Fatima, Hinabangan, Samar.

The closing ceremonies took place on April 3, 2021, according to Deputy Brigade Commander Lt. Col. Lenart Lelina in an interview.

After having their 2nd phase which is immersion, the students of the 78th IB were deployed in the respective barangays in the brigade area of responsibility, he said.

“Now they are officially part of the Integrated Community Public Safety System (ICPSS) Trainers team,” the army officer added.

The training objective is to equip the soldiers with the knowledge and skills on how to help the LGUs establish an integrated community public safety (defense) system, especially in the recently cleared barangays and municipalities, Lelina said.

“It's a Trainers' Training, so the 19 students are expected to cascade what they learned to all the Retooled Community Service Program (RCSP) teams that are still immersed in the barangays.”

“We need to capacitate the recently cleared communities to become conflict resilient. “ Lelina admitted that the system still needs fine-tuning.

“The system is not perfect and still needs more bright ideas and innovations.” The army officer highlighted the role and responsibility of the local government units.

“The role of the LGU is very important especially on the proper formulation and implementation of Peace and Order and Public Safety (POPS) Plan in coordination with the security forces. “

“The Peace and Order Council (POCs) should allocate funds to different projects, programs, and activities related to security and safety of the community.”

He added, “If our communities are secure and peaceful, there is no more stopping our LGUs and NGAs, including CSOs from bringing the needed services to the distant villages.”

“Infra projects will not be hampered anymore because the people themselves will be the ones to secure the implementers and heavy equipment.”

This training and more activities are currently implemented in support of Pres. Duterte’s Executive Order Number 70 or the Whole-of-Nation approach to end the local communist armed conflict. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071718

NPA war materiel seized by Army troops

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): NPA war materiel seized by Army troops (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, April 8 (PIA) – A number of various firearms were seized by troops of the Philippine Army following series of encounters with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) Terrorist in Iloilo towns.

According to 301st Brigade Civil Military Operations Officer Capt. Hazel Joy Durotan, the Army’s 12th Infantry (Lick’ Em) Battalion seized various firearms after series of encounters with the CPP-NPA Terrorist in Iloilo towns.

The recent encounter took place in Barangay Alabidhan, Bingawan, Iloilo in the early morning of April 7, 2021, after receipt of reports from the civilian populace on the presence of armed communist terrorists passing through the village.



Recovered after the brief encounter were two homemade shotguns, two magazines for a homemade shotgun with 10 rounds ammunition, magazine for 9mm pistol with seven rounds of ammunition, four rounds carbine ammunition, shrapnel for landmine, 15 meters electrical wire; two backpacks, grocery items, two hammocks, cooking pot, personal belongings, and propaganda materials, Durotan said in a press release.

She added that on April 5, the troops of 12IB also figured in a brief firefight with the members of NPA’s Baloy Platoon, Central Front Committee, Komiteng Rehiyon -Panay (KR-P) in Barangay Aglubong, Janiuay, Iloilo.

The five-minute encounter resulted in the recovery of one M16 rifle, one M203 Grenade launcher, one M16 magazine with 28 rounds of ammunition, one cellphone, one backpack, one commercial radio, one hammock, three pairs of slippers, two rain boots, one first aid kit, and civilian clothes.

A temporary harbor site that can accommodate more or less 12 communist terrorists was also discovered after the encounter, she said.



On the other hand, 301Bde Commander BGen Marion Sison lauded the community for providing the Army troops accurate information on the movement and location of the communist-terrorists.

“This is an indication that the people are fed up with the presence and atrocities of the communist-terrorist group in their localities. With the people on our side, we are optimistic that we can put the decades-long cruelty of the CPP-NPA Terrorists to its end,” Sison said. (PIA6/With report and photos from 301Bde-CMO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071813

Day of Valor, inspiration to win today's challenges- US diplomat

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Day of Valor, inspiration to win today's challenges- US diplomat (By Gabriela Liana Barela)

PILAR, Bataan, April 9 (PIA) -- United States Embassy in the Philippines recognized the heroism of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II as inspiration to surpass today's challenges particularly the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his message during the virtual commemoration of the 79th Araw ng Kagitingan, Charge d’ Affaires John Law saluted the Filipino and American soldiers who fought and sacrificed during the battle of Bataan and to all those civilians who risked their own safety to comfort and assist them.

"Today for reasons we all understand, we’ve gathered virtually in the face of a new type of challenge. But though we are not there in person, we are there in spirit,” Law conveyed.

"And even as we face the trials and circumstances created by the pandemic, we still draw strength and inspiration from the experiences and examples of those brave men and women," he furthered.

Law emphasized that with the heroism led by these veterans, everyone could still learn from lessons they bequeath to the people, and take hope and faith from their courage.

"They gave all they had, without hesitation they gave more than could be humanly expected for the freedoms of both of our countries,” he said.

United States Embassy in the Philippines Charge d’ Affaires John Law. (Gabriela Liana S. Barela/PIA 3)

Following this, he expressed his gratitude to the Filipinos and assured the good relationship of both countries.

"Throughout those terrible years of war, Americans and Filipinos fought side-by-side in the cause of freedom, for that please know you have the eternal respect and gratitude of the American people," the official said.

Finally, Law asked everyone to always vow to fulfill one's duty to keep alive that freedom from which the soldiers had fought and sacrificed their youth and their lives.

"Let us continue to work together to do all in our power to preserve peace, promote prosperity, and strengthen bonds of friendship between our peoples,” he urged.

This year’s Araw ng Kagitingan carried the theme “Kagitingan ay Gawing Gabay, Pandemya ay Mapagtatagumpayan.” (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071856

Tagalog News: Hindi nakakatulong ang NPA, ayon sa mga Agta sa Rizal na tumiwalag sa pagsuporta sa teroristang grupo

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Tagalog News: Hindi nakakatulong ang NPA, ayon sa mga Agta sa Rizal na tumiwalag sa pagsuporta sa teroristang grupo (By Mark Djeron C. Tumabao)

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Abril 8 (PIA) --- Matapos na maliwanagan sa tunay na adhikain ng mga teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) na hindi nakakatulong sa kanilang pamumuhay, buong pusong tumiwalag sa kanilang pagsuporta sa nasabing grupo ang apat na Agta bitbit ang kanilang mga armas.

Sabay-sabay na nagbalik-loob sa hanay ng 17th Infantry Battalion at sa PNP Rizal noong ika-7 ng Abril sina Ka Priz (65 taong gulang), Ka Nore (62 taong gulang), Ka Rey (58 taong gulang) at Ka Ferde (39 taong gulang), pawang mga residente ng barangay Masi sa Rizal, Cagayan.

Bitbit nila sa kanilang pagsuko ang tatlong home-made shotgun at isang my serial number shotgun na ibinigay sa kanila ng teroristang grupo.

Ayon kay Ka Ferde, itinuring lamang sila na alipin ng mga kadre ng teroristang CPP-NPA dahil sapilitin silang ginagawang tagahatid ng mga pagkain at armas ng mga rebelde.

Bukod dito, sinabi pa ni Ka Ferde na ginagawa rin silang espiya laban sa tropa ng pamahalaan at kung hindi sila susunod sa kagustuhan ng mga kadre ay tinatakot at pinagbabantaan ang kanilang buhay kasama ang kanilang pamilya.

“Sobrang paghihirap ang aming naranasan dahil sa pagmamando ng mga NPA. Kinokontrol nila kami at pinagbabantaan. Natatakot kaming suwayin ang utos nila dahil baka madamay ang aming pamilya. Wala kaming magawa kundi sumunod sa kanila kahit labag sa aming kalooban pati na rin sarili naming pamilya ay napabayaan narin” emosyonal na pagbabahagi ni Ka Ferde sa kanyang naging karanasan sa mga teroristang CPP-NPA.

Hinangaan naman ni Lt. Col Angelo C Saguiguit ang katapangan na ipinamalas ng mga nagbalik-loob sa pamahalaan.

“Ipinakita lamang ng teroristang CPP-NPA kung gaano sila kaduwag dahil sa ginagawang pananakot at pagpuwersa sa mga inosenteng sibilyan na gawin ang mga bagay na labag sa kanilang kalooban. Kabaliktaran nito ang ipinamalas na tapang ng apat nating mga katutubo na tumiwalag sa rebeldeng kilusan,” dagdag ni Saguiguit.

“Sa mga natitira pang biktima ng mga teroristang CPP-NPA na nananatiling nasa loob ng kilusan, magbalik-loob na kayo sa ating pamahalaan. Huwag na kayong magpagamit sa mga teroristang ito dahil walang magandang maidudulot kundi panganib sa inyong buhay. Sa ating pamahalaan, nariyan na ang Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration (ECLIP) na tiyak makatutulong sa inyong pagbabagong buhay,”giit pa ni Saguiguit. (MDCT with reports from 17IB/PIA-2)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071743

Tagalog News: Mga mag-aaral sa dating kuta ng CPP-NPA, nakatanggap ng gamit mula sa 95IB, AFPSLAI

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Tagalog News: Mga mag-aaral sa dating kuta ng CPP-NPA, nakatanggap ng gamit mula sa 95IB, AFPSLAI (By Mark Djeron C. Tumabao and 95th Infantry Battalion)

SAN MARIANO, Isabela, Abril 8 (PIA) -- Nakatanggap ng mga gamit pang-eskwela mula sa 95th Infantry Battalion at Armed Forces and Police Saving and Loan Association INC. o AFPSLAI ang mga mag-aaral ng Villa Miranda Integrated School sa barangay Dibuluan sa bayang ito.

Sa tulong ng 95IB, matagumpay na naihatid ang higit 40 na school bags na may lamang ibat-ibang kagamitan sa pag-aaral kagaya ng notebook, papel, lapis at iba pa.

Maalala na ang mga ibinahaging gamit ay mula sa AFPSLAI na mismong inihatid ng kanilang Branch Manager na si Joyce R. Valiente sa pamunuan ng 95IB sa kaniyang pagbisita noong nakaraan na buwan.

Ayon kay Lt. Col. Lemuel Baduya, commanding officer ng 95IB, isa lamang ito sa pagpapakita na ang kasundaluhan at ang pamahalaan ay seryoso sa paghahatid ng anumang klaseng tulong na ibibigay sa mga nangangailangan lalong lalo na sa mga taong minsan ng naging biktima ng maling ideolohiya ng CPP-NPA-NDF.

Matatandaan na ang barangay Dibuluan ay naging parte sa malakihang operasyon ng CPP-NPA na kung saan ginaganap dito ang kanilang taunang anibersaryo kasama ang mga inosenteng sibilyan.

Ayon kay Mario Butac, barangay kagawad ng Dibuluan, isa siya sa saksi sa mga panloloko at karahasan ng NPA sa kaniyang nasasakupang barangay na halos lahat ng pangangailan ay ibinibigay nila ito sa NPA dulot ng matinding takot na baka sila ay papatayin.

Pinatunayan din ni Butac na dito din isinasagawa ang pagtuturo sa mga tao sa barangay kung paano sisirain ang gobyerno.

Dagdag pa niya simula noong napasok na ng Community Support Program o CSP ng mga kasundalohan ang kanilang barangay, dito na nag-umpisa na magising sa katotohanan ang buong barangay na mali ang mga aral na kanilang nakuha sa CPP-NPA kung kaya noong tangkahing pasukin ng Partido Gabriela ang kanilang barangay ay tulong tulong ng nagkaisa ang buong barangay ng Dibuluan upang itaboy ang mga ito at ipinagsisigaw nila ang mga maling gawain ng CPP-NPA.

Sa ngayon, para mapanatili ang kaayusan at upang tuloy-tuloy ang pagpasok ng mga programa at serbisyo ng gobyerno, pinatayuhan ng 95IB sa tulong ng lokal na pamahalaan ng San Mariano ng isang CAA detachment ng sundalo ang kanilang barangay. (MDCT/PIA-2)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071752

PIA chief commits communication support to PH Army's IMCOM

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 8, 2021): PIA chief commits communication support to PH Army's IMCOM (By Nonette N. Castillo)

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General Undersecretary Ramon L. Cualoping

CALOOCAN CITY, April 9 (PIA) -- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General Undersecretary Ramon L. Cualoping today committed his agency's communication support to the Multi—Sector Advisory Board of Installation Management Command (IMCOM) of the Philippine Army of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

This, after Cualoping was affirmed as member of the board and then elected as Chairman of the Resource Management Committee.

“The Philippine Information Agency and the entire communication team of the Executive Branch is deeply committed in this endeavor in helping the Multi-Sector Advisory Board of IMCOM," he said during the virtual board meeting.

"We look forward to working with all of our colleagues as well as with the private sector. And coming from our expertise in communication and information we will be giving our best for this board. Thank you so much for this opportunity,” Usec. Ramon Cualoping added.

Among the services the PIA can provide include communication audit, communication research, definition of communication goals and objectives, identification of target audience and stakeholders, key messages development, and strategy and implementation development, among others.

The Installation Management Command (IMCOM) of the Philippine Army was activated as provisional unit on 04 March 2019 with base function services and real estate management.

With a Mission to manage, develop, and administer Philippine Army’s major installations and military reservations in support to the Philippine Army’s mission. It was operationalized on 23 September 2019. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1071869

Ex-BIFF rebels get livelihood aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Ex-BIFF rebels get livelihood aid (By Edwin Fernandez)

LIVELIHOOD PACKAGE. Former BIFF rebels who earlier yielded to the military in Maguindanao receive tractors and other farm implements on Wednesday (April 7, 2021) from the provincial government as part of their reintegration into mainstream society. The assistance includes tricycles, farm tractors motorized bancas, and farm supplies. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

A total of 177 former members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who earlier surrendered to the Army in Maguindanao have received livelihood aid from the provincial government.

Maguindanao Gov. Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu and Big Gen. Jose Narciso, 6th Infantry Division assistant division commander, who represented 6th Infantry Division chief, Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, led Wednesday afternoon the distribution of assistance at the provincial capitol grounds in Buluan town.

Beneficiaries were given 40 tricycles, 12 farm tractors, 13 motorized bancas (outrigger boats), and 131 farm supplies.

“Make good use of the assistance given you on your life with your families,” Mangudadatu said, adding that more livelihood packages are underway for the former rebels.

Narciso, for his part, said another group of Moro extremists is undergoing an integration process for their formal surrender to the government.

“It is encouraging to note that more BIFF members are abandoning their futile cause to restart their lives anew,” he said.

The governor also turned over six utility vehicles to the Department of Education in Maguindanao, and 10 rescue vehicles for selected barangays.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136116

C. Visayas troops on alert against possible NPA attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): C. Visayas troops on alert against possible NPA attack (By John Rey Saavedra)

ON ALERT. Members of the military and the police in the Central Visayas region are seen in this April 5, 2021 meeting of the Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center-7 (RJPSCC-7). Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya (inset), commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army, said soldiers and policemen are on alert against possible retaliatory attacks of the New People's Army (NPA) following the death of 10 terrorist rebels in an encounter in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental last March. (PNA photos by John Rey Saavedra and 3rd ID Public Affairs Office)

The military and the police in Central Visayas have heightened their vigilance to quell possible attacks from the New People’s Army (NPA) following the death of 10 communist terrorists in an encounter in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental last month.

Anticipating the NPA’s retaliatory harassment of government troops in the region, the Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (RJPSCC-7) has intensified its defenses and ordered the uniformed men and women to always be on alert.

In a statement on Thursday, Maj. Gen. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, said soldiers and policemen are aware of the communist group’s desperation after 10 of its members were killed and two other suspected NPA members were arrested.

The joint peace and security center has earlier reminded government troopers deployed to secure the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination sites to be safety-conscious and be alert against lawless elements.

“(The) Army and PNP (Philippine National Police) troops (will) not drop their guard down and be extra vigilant against the CNTs (communist NPA terrorists) who are now very desperate to inflict harm against the government forces after suffering major setback,” the Army official said.

The encounter in Guihulngan City also yielded 11 high-powered firearms and is considered as one of the accomplishments of the RJPSCC-7.

Meanwhile, the Army Division’s public affairs office said the joint body has also been up to date in its focused military operations as well as its law enforcement operations.

To continue winning the hearts and minds of the Central Visayas residents, particularly in Negros Oriental, the joint body has also strengthened its civil military operations-police community relations (CMO-PCR) programs.

The military and the police in the region, it said, are closely working together to sustain their legal offensive against the enemy forces as well as its inter-agency stakeholder engagements to maintain close contact with the different sectors.

The statement said the RJPSCC-7, formed to ensure collaborative efforts of the military and the police in addressing peace and security concerns in Region 7, discussed in its April 5 meeting other possible security threats.

Among the threats the body is monitoring now is the reports about some groups posing as members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) conducting recruitment activities in Cebu.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136164

19 ex-rebels in Panay get livelihood assistance

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): 19 ex-rebels in Panay get livelihood assistance (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)

LIVELIHOOD GRANT. Some 19 former rebels in Antique received the Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) at the Sebaste Central School in Sebaste town on Thursday (April 8, 2021). Former rebel "Ka Riza" (in photo) is the lone female recipient of the PHP20,000 grant. (PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique - A total of 19 former rebels (FRs) in two provinces of Panay received Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) on Thursday under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Marielle F. Escal, the program's focal person, in her message during the turnover ceremony held at the Sebaste Central School, said the FRs from the towns of Culasi and Sebaste are the first to receive the PHP20,000 grant each.

"The LSG is intended for the beneficiaries of Executive Order Number 70," she said.

EO 70 created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) that institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach in obtaining exclusive and sustainable peace.

Escal said the identified FRs submitted their project proposals last December and were approved by DSWD Western Visayas regional director Evelyn Macapobre.

The recipients were composed of 10 FRs from Sebaste, seven from Culasi, one from Pandan, and one from Jamindan, Capiz.

"The FR from Capiz was included in the distribution in Antique because she surrendered in the province, "she said.

"Ka Riza", the FR from Capiz, is the only female who received the LSG.

Of the 19 FRs, 10 received the LSG for cattle-raising, three for buy-and-sell of palay, two for hog-raising, and one each for carabao-raising, goat-raising, putting up of sari-sari store, and fishing.

Meanwhile, Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, chief of the Legal Cooperation Cluster and spokesperson of the Regional Task Force - ELCAC, said the government is realizing its promise to assist the FRs as they start their new lives through the distribution of the LSG.

Hopefully, he said the FRs through the assistance being given them, would realize that there was no more reason to return to their former lives as rebels.

James Rubino, information officer of the Antique Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, said a total of 32 FRs from Antique have surrendered to the government.

"The LSG of the other FRs are still being processed by the DSWD," he said.

"Ka Riza", in her message, thanked the government for the assistance given them.

She joined the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) movement at 14 years old to lift her family out of poverty.

"I was with the movement for 19 years but I realized that my life even got worse because I always felt tensed," she said, as she was assigned to work as a political and medical officer.

"It was there that I also met my husband," she said. They have two children, who were left with her in-laws in Sebaste while they were in the movement.

"It was last October 2017 that my husband and I decided to leave the movement because we asked to visit our children whom we were not able to see for four years already," she said.

She said that it was only on August 5, 2020 when they finally decided to surrender to the government.

"My husband and I are now separated but I am happy that I could already see my children anytime," she added.

She will start goat-raising in Capiz where she now resides.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136166

Don't be deceived by commies, gov't execs, employees urged

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Don't be deceived by commies, gov't execs, employees urged (By Perla Lena)

SUPPORT. Associate Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, chair of the legal cooperation cluster and RTF6-ELCAC spokesperson, on Thursday (April 8, 2021) issued a statement supporting the claim of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo on communist terrorist groups' (CTGs) infiltration of government offices and government employee associations. Gonzales called on government workers to support the campaign against CTGs. (PNA file photo)

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Western Visayas on Thursday called on all public officials and employees in government to support the all-out war against communist terrorist groups (CTGs) and their legal fronts.

Associate Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, RTF6-ELCAC spokesperson, called on government workers not to be deceived by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and its front organizations.

Gonzales, who is chairperson of RTF6-ELCAC legal cooperation cluster, said government employees who have sworn allegiance to the CPP-NPA and/or any of its legal fronts and finding it difficult to separate from the CTG “by all means, should resign from your post”, he said.

“You are doing the government and the Filipino people a great disservice,” he added.

The task force, in a statement, made the call in support of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo's claim about the CTG infiltration of government offices and employees associations.

In a Facebook post on April 5, Monteagudo said Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Orgnisasyon (SENADO) is manned by the Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE) and served as the “eyes and ears of the CPP-NPA-NDF to hijack government plans and programs.”

“That COURAGE is a legal front of the CPP-NPA whose primary task is to infiltrate various government offices and radicalize government employees, which would gradually weaken the government bureaucracy from within,” said

Gonzales called the act of Monteagudo is an “unprecedented move" as he “unmasked COURAGE in front of the Filipino people by stating the naked TRUTH”.

"The exposé is damaging to the group that strongly denied any and all ties to the CPP-NPA,” he said.

Gonzales said those who criticized the intelligence chief have not studied their history and “have greatly underestimated the resolve of this government to put an end to the 52-year-old communist insurgency that has claimed the lives of thousands of Filipinos”.

He added that since the CPP-NPA could no longer deceive the people, as their former cadres have also spoken, their propaganda machinery resorted to focus on “maligning and vilifying NTF-ELCAC and men of unquestioned integrity” such as Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr and Monteagudo.

Parlade is Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command chief and NTF-ELCAC spokesperson.

He said their commitment to exposing the “deceptive schemes” of the CPP-NPA “transcends beyond and above their call of duty.”

Politicking

Meanwhile, in a virtual press conference Wednesday, Gonzales reminded some legislators who “are confused as to the nature of their jobs and who are hell-bent on undermining the NTF-ELCAC and the campaign of this government against the communist terrorist groups” of their oath to protect the county from its enemies, local terrorists, particularly the CPP-NPA and its legal fronts.

“You are not there in Congress to spend the taxpayers' money to protect, promote, and advance the political agenda of your political parties. You must not collude with the enemies of the State and of the Filipino people. It is tantamount to treason and a betrayal of the public trust,” he said.

Gonzales expressed alarm that the Senate considered discussing a bill to criminalize red-tagging saying the Supreme Court has ruled that there is no such thing as red-tagging and senators must understand that as most of them are lawyers.

“Now to undermine the effort of the government in putting an end to this 52-year old insurgency is I think the height of what we call politicking on the part of the Senators. Because as we can see, those who are pushing through with the bill on red-tagging are those that are opposed to the government, the present administration I mean,” he said.

He added that it is "very irresponsible" for lawmakers to put national security in danger just because of politics and instead of supporting efforts of the government against the CPP-NPA, the senators opposing the current administration focused their resources to undermine the gains.

He called on Senators Franklin Drilon, Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and those belonging to their group to “transcend beyond politics”.

Bordering on treason

Gonzales said undermining the accomplishment of NICA in exposing the truth is “bordering on treason” as the primary job of the agency is to know the truth.

He added that the call of SENADO for Monteagudo to apologize as reported by inquirer.net is “unthinkable”.

“Why would a government employee apologize for doing his job? That’s out of the question in my opinion,” he said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136163

Attacks thwarted as anti-personnel mines seized in CamSur

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): Attacks thwarted as anti-personnel mines seized in CamSur (By Connie Calipay)

SEIZED. Part of the 53 anti-personnel mines recently seized from communist terrorist groups in Barangay Del Carmen in Lagonoy, Camarines Sur. Joint Task Force Bicolandia Commander Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson said in an interview on Friday (April 9, 2021) that Communist Terrorist Group members are always welcome to give up the armed struggle and start anew with the government’s help. (Photo courtesy of AFP-Southern Luzon Command)

Government troops recently thwarted a possible attack of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) after seizing 53 anti-personnel mines in Barangay Del Carmen, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur.

Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said residents reported the presence of a CTG, prompting the 96th Infantry Battalion to conduct a security operation where they encountered an undetermined number of New People’s Army members on Monday.

“After a 20-minute firefight, the enemies withdrew, leaving behind a stockpile of anti-personnel mines, 33 pieces of which weighed 7 to 10 kilograms each while the other 20 weighed 4 to 5 kilograms each,” Belleza said in an interview on Friday.

Bomb components were also seized.

Joint Task Force Bicolandia, under Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., strongly condemned the CTG for its continuous production and use of anti-personnel mines which is a clear violation of international and domestic laws.

“Aside from the International Humanitarian Law, the use of anti-personnel mines is a violation of Republic Act 9851, or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and other Crimes against Humanity, which prohibits the use of weapons, projectiles and materials, and methods of warfare which are of the nature to cause superfluous injury or unnecessary suffering,” he said.

Robinson lashed anew at communist-terrorists for extorting money even from the poor to fund the production of explosives that endanger the lives of both government troops and innocent civilians.

“These acts are purely evil and we thank the local populace who, due to their complete abhorrence of the CTG’s lawlessness, has been cooperating with us in our campaign to hunt down these terrorists. Instead of giving in to the threats of this group, they report them to us or to the police, preempting the unlawful and treacherous acts of the CTG,” Robinson said.

Col. Jaime Abawag Jr., Commander of the 902nd Infantry Brigade, said the seizure of the explosives saved lives.

“I thank the residents of Del Carmen for reporting the presence of the CTG which prevented the communist terrorists from launching another terroristic attack just as what they did in Ligao City, Albay last week,” he said.

On April 3, Black Saturday, a minor and a motorcyle rider sustained shrapnel wounds after CTG members detonated an improvised explosive device in Purok 5, Barangay Allang.

Since July last year, government troops have already seized hundreds of explosives in Masbate, Sorsogon, Camarines Sur, and Camarines Norte.

“Huwag n'yong hintaying mapabilang sa mga biktima ng inyong terorismo ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay. Kapag nagbalik-loob na kayo sa pamahalaan ngayon, hindi mga bombang nakakasira ng buhay at ari-arian ang hahawakan ninyo kundi ang kamay ng inyong mga mahal sa buhay, benipisyo mula sa gobyerno para sa inyong pagbabagong buhay at higit sa lahat pag-asa para sa mas mapayapa at magandang kinabukasan. Nasa inyong mga kamay ang desisyon (Do not wait for the time when even your loved ones will become victims of terrorism. Once you rejoin government, you will no longer hold bombs that destroy lives and properties, but the hands of your loved ones, benefits to start anew and most of all, peace and a better future. The decision is yours),” Robinson said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136255

Basilan, Westmincom launch program to eradicate loose firearms

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): Basilan, Westmincom launch program to eradicate loose firearms (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

DONE DEAL. Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr. (center), Western Mindanao Command chief, leads the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding that launched the Small Arms and Light Weapons program on Thursday (April 8, 2021) in Isabela City, Basilan. The program aims to minimize, if not eradicate, the loose firearms problem in the province. (Photo courtesy of Westmincom-PIO)

A program geared to minimize, if not eradicate, loose firearms in Basilan province, will get going following the signing of the deal on Thursday.

The Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) was finalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among military, provincial, and municipal officials.

The Joint Normalization Committee (JNC), consistent with the normalization process, shall develop a program for reduction and management of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) of individuals and groups, according to Ariel Hernandez, chairperson of the government JNC.

Hernandez explained that small arms are individual-service kinetic projectile firearms, while light weapons are infantry-portable weapons that are either crew-served kinetic firearms, incendiary devices, or shoot explosive munitions.

He said the SALW program aims to restrict the movement and manage the number of loose firearms in communities, one of the main causes of violence in far-flung areas.

“There is a need to implement a program that will manage the number of loose firearms at the barangay level thereby addressing the peace and security concerns of the communities,” Hernandez said.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief; Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force Basilan commander; Basilan Gov. Hadjiman Hataman-Salliman; Basilan Vice Gov. Yusop Alano; and the mayors of 11 municipalities and two cities of the province joined Hernandez during the signing of the MOU in Isabela City.

Salliman emphasized that the SALW program is crucial for the sustainability of peace and security in the province.

“This program is our initiative, hence I request everyone to internalize this and let us implement this without reservation for the benefit of Basileños,” Hataman said.

The signing of the MOU aimed to sustain peace and security efforts in Basilan and intensify the normalization process under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, Vinluan said.

“It is high time that we support this endeavor as we slowly but surely address this systematic problem of loose and unregulated proliferation of firearms,” the Westmincom chief added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136295

Tawi-Tawi declares ASG bandits persona non grata

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 10, 2021): Tawi-Tawi declares ASG bandits persona non grata (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

UNACCEPTABLE PEOPLE. The provincial government of Tawi-Tawi through a resolution declared the Abu Sayyaf bandits persona non grata. The resolution was approved during the joint meeting of the Tawi-Tawi Provincial Peace and Order Council, Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council, and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi on Friday (April 9, 2021). (Photo courtesy of the Western Mindanao Command Public Information Office)

The Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) has welcomed the action of the Tawi-Tawi provincial government that declared the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits persona non grata in the province.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Westmincom chief, said Saturday the persona non grata declaration, which is through a unified resolution, is a good development in the campaign to sustain the peace and order in the province of Tawi-Tawi.

“We fully support the unified declaration made by our fellow peace advocates. We assure you that our anti-terrorism and anti-criminality campaigns are bolstered in cooperation with the local government units, and our partners and stakeholders in the area,” Vinluan added.

The declaration was made through a resolution adopted during the first quarter joint meeting Friday of the Tawi-Tawi Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).

The joint meeting echoed the same sentiments raised during the 1st Quarter Joint Provincial Health Board and Provincial School Board Meeting held at the Henry Kong Hall of Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO) in Barangay Sanga-Sanga, Bongao.

The resolution said the Abu Sayyaf and all lawless armed groups have no place in the 11 municipalities of Tawi-Tawi.

The joint meeting was presided by Governor Yshmael Sali and was participated in by the local chief executives of Tawi-Tawi; Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi and 2nd Marine Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas; Tawi-Tawi Provincial Police Office deputy director Maj. Abrurakib Ahmad; and representatives from all concerned agencies.

Participating agencies presented their quarterly reports during the meeting, most notable of which were the accomplishments of the different agencies such as the dismantling of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) camps, the neutralization of Abu Sayyaf leader Majan Sahidjuan alias Apo Mike, the observance of health protocols, and the proper implementation of municipal ordinances.

Sali said the meeting aimed to maintain the peace in the province of Tawi- Tawi and to assess how far the province has gone in its effort.

The governor said the unified resolution of support aims to condemn the terroristic activities of lawless groups in all areas of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the guise of their false ideologies.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136332

Army sees NPA-criminal groups ties in Leyte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 10, 2021): Army sees NPA-criminal groups ties in Leyte (By Sarwell Meniano)

SEIZED FIREARMS. Some of the firearms recovered by authorities after a clash with former rebels linked to the illegal drugs trade and criminal groups in an armed encounter on April 8, 2021. The incident proves the link between the communist terrorist group and criminal activities, a Philippine Army official said Friday (April 9, 2021). (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

The recent armed encounter between government forces and former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) now engaged in illegal drugs proves the link between the communist terrorist group and criminal activities, a Philippine Army official said Friday.

Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said the NPA has engaged in illegal activities to finance its armed struggle.

"This is one indication that the NPA has lost their supporters, prompting them to tie up with criminal groups to sustain their efforts to destroy the government," Oliveros said in a statement sent to reporters.

On April 8, Nicolas Ibañez, a former rebel leading a gun-for-hire group and a band of illegal drug users and traders, was killed in a shootout with joint operatives from the military, police, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency during an operation in Anislagan village, Calubian, Leyte.

Government forces were serving a warrant of arrest early morning against Marlon Mendoza, also a former rebel, for frustrated murder cases.

Mendoza resisted arrest and fired a shot at operatives, which resulted in a five-minute gunfight.

The group abandoned the dead body of Ibañez.

No one was hurt from the government's side.

The operatives recovered a sachet of suspected shabu, a caliber .45 pistol, an AK-47 rifle, an M16 rifle, a baby Armalite, assorted magazines, and ammunition.

Oliveros said Ibañez and Mendoza have close ties with Juanito Silleza Jr., one of the NPA commanders in Leyte Island.

The military thanked civilians for providing information about the location of NPA members and groups linked to the communist terrorist group.

The Communist Party of the Philippines - 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/1136320

Suspected rebel killed in another CamSur clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 10, 2021): Suspected rebel killed in another CamSur clash (By Connie Calipay)

COMMUNITY SUPPORT. Authorities are grateful for tips from concerned citizens, like this group who staged an anti-insurgency peace rally in Masbate in March. Such information led to the killing of a suspected New People’s Army rebel on Friday and the seizure of 53 anti-personnel mines on April 5, both in Camarines Sur. (Photo courtesy of 9ID Facebook)

A suspected New People’s Army rebel was killed in an encounter between government troops and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Lagonoy, Camarines Sur on Friday.

Elements of the 96th Infantry Battalion (96IB) were on security operations in response to a tip from a concerned citizen in Barangay Guibahoy when the clash with five CTG members broke out.

“No one was harmed on the government side but one CTG member who is yet to be identified was left by his comrades. An M16 rifle was also found in the encounter site,” Capt. John Paul Belleza, the 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said in an interview on Saturday.

Lt. Col. Benjamin Lonogan, commanding officer of the 96IB, was saddened by another loss of life but cannot blame communities for reporting on their extortion activities.

"We thank the residents for the timely information they are feeding us and for not tolerating the lawless activities of this terrorist group. Sad to say that because of the NPA’s deception, another life was lost. I hope this will be a lesson to all the members of the terrorist group. Don’t waste time. There is hope for a normal life,” he said in a separate interview.

On April 5, an armed skirmish also erupted in the same town where 53 anti-personnel mines were seized.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136344

PMA groups support Lorenzana remarks on Julian Felipe Reef

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): PMA groups support Lorenzana remarks on Julian Felipe Reef (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of AFP

Two organizations composed of graduates and retired members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) backed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana's firm stand on the continued encroachment of Chinese vessels off Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea.

"The Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PMAAAI) and the Philippine Military Academy Retirees Association Inc. (PMARAI) through the undersigned duly elected officers join as they fully support the firm stand of protest and opposition of the Secretary of National Defense, Delfin Lorenzana against the ongoing encroachment of the Chinese vessels in the Julian Felipe Reef," the two organizations said in a letter dated April 6 but was only forwarded to reporters by Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong Thursday.

Signing for PMAAAI was its chair Amado Espino, Jr. while for PMARAI was Vidal E. Querol.

"The acts of the Chinese Embassy in downplaying the issue and subverting the truth are very alarming indeed. The weather condition in the West Philippine Sea has been fair in the past few days and to claim that the vessels still cannot leave due to rough seas and inclement weather is a blatant lie, hence deplorable," it added.

"This is even made more ironic by the fact that the Embassy itself calls Sec. Lorenzana’s statement as “perplexing” while completely ignoring the lack of logic in their own ones," they added.

The groups also noted that these 220 vessels have been spotted as early as March 7 and that Julian Felipe Reef is also not very far from the coincidentally named Mischief Reef which has slowly been turned into a military base by China over the last few years.

It added that such actions are sufficient to make a reasonable citizen suspicious of the whole situation.

"This issue had been discussed during the hearing of the South China Sea Arbitration Case. Under International Law, the Philippines has sovereignty over its territorial sea (12 nautical miles) and jurisdiction over its Exclusive Economic Zone (beyond 12 and up to 200 nautical miles). As such, Julian Felipe Reef falls within Philippine jurisdiction and we have every right to defend it from foreign intrusion. It is even more important to note that China and the Philippines are both parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and must therefore abide by all agreements stated therein," the associations added.

Also, they stressed that agreements stated in the UNCLOS must be upheld if any meaningful dialogue among other countries is to take place.

In the arbitration case promulgated on July 12, 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration stated that “China’s claims to historic rights, or other sovereign rights or jurisdiction, with respect to the maritime areas of the South China Sea encompassed by the relevant part of the 'nine-dash line' are contrary to the Convention and without lawful effect to the extent that they exceeded the geographic and substantive limits of China’s maritime entitlements under the Convention."

It also further declares that the convention supersedes any historic rights in excess of the limits imposed therein.

"That the tribunal also states several times throughout their arbitration that China has breached other reefs and even unlawfully preventing other vessels from fishing in areas that they themselves had no jurisdiction in the first place," it added.

Aside from illegal fishing, the groups said Chinese vessels have also been harvesting endangered species on a significant scale, as well as harvesting giant clams in a manner that is severely destructive of the coral reef ecosystem.

They said this illegal encroachment, coupled with the persistent unlawful acts perpetrated by the Chinese over the years in these territorial disputes only further show the hypocrisy by which the latter have conducted themselves.

It demonstrates nothing more but bad faith in the ongoing negotiations for the proper conduct in these waters, it stressed.

"We, therefore, urge the Chinese Embassy to respect our government officials and for the Chinese government to adhere to the rules as laid by international law," they added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136126

Intensified vigilance urged vs. Reds’ infiltration of gov’t orgs

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): Intensified vigilance urged vs. Reds’ infiltration of gov’t orgs (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Department of National Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu (PNA File photo)

A ranking defense official expressed his support for calls on intensified vigilance against infiltration of communist-front organizations in government employees' associations.

"The findings of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo are supported by statements from former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) about the duplicitous nature of the various CTG (communist terrorist groups) front organizations disguised as unions of government workers," Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu said in a statement Wednesday.

Mapagu, who is also head of Task Force Balik Loob and the E-CLIP and Amnesty Program Cluster of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), said former NPA cadres who have returned to mainstream society are their strongest allies in exposing the lies and crimes committed by the CTGs.

E-CLIP is short for Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

"Former NPA cadres, who have decided to return to mainstream society with support from the government, have become our indispensable partners in exposing the lies and crimes of the CTG in various sectors of our society, which unfortunately include the very halls of our government," he added.

Mapagu added that they are joining the call of the NTF ELCAC in denouncing the continued delusions of the CTGs and its front organizations to undermine the Republic and exploit the ranks of civil servants for their treasonous cause.

"We also call on our government workers, our lingkod bayani, to remain loyal to the Constitution and protect our democracy from those who would do it harm," he said.

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

"Let us all stand behind the path to peace and nation-building by finally ending the decades-long scourge advanced by these communist terrorists," Mapagu said.

Earlier, Monteagudo said the union of Senate employees is a front of the communist group.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Marie Badoy said the NTF ELCAC is convinced that the "Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Orgnisasyon (SENADO)" is being controlled by the labor group Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE).

COURAGE has been tagged as a front organization of the CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF).

“The NTF ELCAC stands solidly behind the Director General of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Alex Paul Monteagudo when he says that COURAGE is a front of the CPP-NPA-NDF and that it functions as the ears and eyes of this terrorist group,” said Badoy, spokesperson of NTF ELCAC, in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136136

US calls on China to abide by arbitral tribunal’s ruling

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 8, 2021): US calls on China to abide by arbitral tribunal’s ruling (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price

The United States government has called on China to abide by the 2016 arbitral tribunal award, as it reiterated its "strong support" for the Philippines amid the presence of Chinese vessels at the Julian Felipe Reef -- part of the country's exclusive economic zone -- and other parts of the West Philippine Sea.

In a press briefing Wednesday, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said Washington shares Manila's concern about the swarming of Chinese vessels that have also spread to other parts of the disputed area.

"We have reiterated our strong support for the Philippines and we have called on the PRC to abide by the 2016 arbitral tribunal award under the Law of the Sea Convention, which is final and legally binding on all parties," he said.

The US, he said, will defend the Philippines in the event of an armed attack against Filipino vessels in the contested South China Sea under the two nations' Mutual Defense Treaty.

"As we have stated before, an armed attack against the Philippines armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, will trigger our obligations under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," he said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier promised a barrage of diplomatic protests against China for "every day of delay" in withdrawing their ships from Julian Felipe Reef.

Last April 5, it lambasted China's "clearly false narrative" of expansive and illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea and rejected its assertion that the reef and its waters are their traditional fishing ground.

The 2016 Arbitral Award issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration conclusively settled the issue of historic rights and maritime entitlement in the South China Sea.

It ruled that claims to historic rights or sovereign rights that exceed the geographic and substantive limits of maritime entitlements under UNCLOS are "without lawful effect" therefore invalidating China's nine-dash line that covers nearly 80 percent in the area and overlaps with the country's waters.

In a statement, the Department of National Defense (DND) welcomed Washington D.C.’s remarks on the matter.

“The US admonition to China against the use of force on Philippine public vessels and aircraft, which are performing their constitutional mandate to protect and defend Philippine rights in the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, is an additional affirmation of the long-standing partnership between our two countries,” Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said.

He added that this also proves the strength of the alliance and mutual commitment of the Philippines and the US to promote the rules-based international order.

He added that the Philippines is continuously in talks with the US on the matter of mutual defense.

“Both parties are committed to undertake their obligations under the Mutual Defense Treaty so that neither stands alone in these issues involving the two states' inherent right of self-defense, individually and collectively,” he added.

Andolong said the DND will keep all options open in managing the evolving situation in the West Philippine Sea, including "leveraging our partnerships with other nations such as the US”.

“We remain committed to protecting and defending our national interests while upholding the security and stability in the region through a peaceful and rules-based approach,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136137

IP group backs NICA in exposing 'CTG lies, deception'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 10, 2021): IP group backs NICA in exposing 'CTG lies, deception' (By Che Palicte)

The Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Council of Elders and Leaders (MIPCEL) expressed its support to the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) for exposing the "lies and deception" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

In a statement Friday, MIPCEL said it stands with NICA Director General Alex Monteagudo's efforts to expose the communist terrorist groups' (CTG) infiltration of the civil service sector and other branches of the government.

“He (Monteagudo) is exposing the modus operandi of the National and Regional United front Commission of the CPP in the operations of the Makabayang Kawani ng Pilipinas (MKP) and its Open organization COURAGE in infiltrating government bureaucracy and sabotaging government programs. We support this because we are also victimized by this kind of lies and deceptions,” the group said.

MIPCEL said some of its members had been victimized by the operations of the Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) in the IP sector, comprising of the Rebolusyonaryong Organisadong Lumad (ROL) in Mindanao and the Cordillera People’s Democratic Front (CPDF) in Cordillera.

“It is therefore high time that this bureaucratic infiltration is exposed and opposed as collaborating with terror organizations using our own government agencies and offices that they were able to influence,” it said.

MIPCEL also bared that KALUMARAN (Kusog sa Katawhang Lumad sa Mindanao), consisting of five Regional Federations formations in Mindanao and Cordillera People’s Alliance (CPA) in Northern Luzon, had crafted a narrative of self-determination and liberation to set the stage for the IPs to fight the Philippine government here and abroad.

In 2017 when Judy Taguiwalo, a prominent member of the leftist bloc, was Social Welfare and Development secretary, MIPCEL said the agency and PASAKA signed a cash-for-work program agreement in Region 10 and 11 to funnel funds to the leftist group.


The IP group also noted the CTGs “school offensives” that exploited the education system by registering Lumad schools under Save Our School (SOS), which allegedly became a milking cow for the communist rebel movement as they sought funds from international donors.

It also said the leftist-supported schools were used to produce child warriors for the NPA while demonizing the government in international venues.

“This program had resulted to terrorist acts of child trafficking, child recruitment in terror armed group, and misrepresentation of IPs. These programs could not have been in-placed if there was no information and assistance from the CTGs bureaucratic infiltration in these government agencies which are already exposed and opposed,” the statement reads.

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.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136339

PNP coronavirus recovery tally reaches 14.2K

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): PNP coronavirus recovery tally reaches 14.2K (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

File photo

An additional 238 police officers have recovered from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), bringing the police force's recovery tally to 14,206.

In an update on Friday, Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, Philippine National Police (PNP) deputy chief for administration, said they also recorded 166 new confirmed cases, 156 of which are tagged as new while the remaining 10 as reinfections.

This raises the PNP's cumulative number of Covid-19 cases to 16,770, with 2,524 active cases and 40 deaths.

Meanwhile, the number of PNP personnel vaccinated has reached 4,546, with 2,917 being injected with their first dose of Sinovac and another 1,267 with their second dose.

Those injected with AstraZeneca have reached 1,629.

Meanwhile, around 82 percent of PNP personnel have expressed willingness to be vaccinated against Covid-19.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136254

DND honors front-liners as PH marks Day of Valor

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): DND honors front-liners as PH marks Day of Valor (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (File photo)

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday paid tribute to the heroism of Filipino front-liners in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic as the country commemorates "Araw ng Kagitingan" (Day of Valor).

This, as he lauded the sacrifices, bravery, and love of country shown by Filipino veterans of World War II and other heroes through the years.

"Sa kabila ng ating mga kinakaharap na pagsubok bilang isang bansa, walang pasubali ang kagitingan na ating nasasaksihan mula sa ating mga kababayan na katuwang natin sa paglaban sa kasakuluyang pandemya (Despite the many trials being experienced by our nation, there is no stop to the bravery being exhibited by our fellow Filipinos in the ongoing fight against the pandemic)," Lorenzana said in a statement.

He also thanked medical workers who continue to safeguard the nation's health, soldiers and other government workers who continue to look after the safety of fellow Filipinos and help those in need despite challenges.

"Saludo kami sa inyo (We salute you all)," he added.

Under-equipped and meagerly supplied American and Filipino forces, fighting in the Bataan front-lines, were forced to surrender on April 9, 1942, after 93 days of gallant resistance against the superior Japanese force.

Some 60,000 Filipino and American troops were made prisoners of war by the Japanese.

They were made to walk some 140 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac on hot days with no food and water in what was known in the world as the “Death March”.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136249

PH Navy keen on acquiring US Cyclone-patrol vessels

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): PH Navy keen on acquiring US Cyclone-patrol vessels (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Navy (PN) has expressed its interest to acquire the newly-decommissioned Cyclone-class patrol vessels of the United States (US) Navy.

"The PN has manifested its interest in the decommissioned Cyclone-class patrol vessels (CCPVs) of the US Navy as a stop-gap to the decommissioned legacy PN ships. As to how many, that depends on the seaworthiness and efficiency of the CCPVs that will be offered, and this will be determined by the PN Joint Visual Inspection Team," PN chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday night.

Bacordo said he will be happy if the PN acquires at least five of these Cyclone-class patrol vessels which will be a boost to its fleet.

At present, the PN has one Cyclone-class patrol vessel in its service, the BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS-38), formerly the ex-USS Cyclone, which was transferred to the PN in 2004.

"We have manifested our interest with JUSMAG (Joint US Military Assistance Group) and US INDOPACOM (Indo-Pacific Command)," he added.

The Cyclone-class patrol ships are a class of US Navy coastal patrol boats consisting of some 14 ships.

These vessels weigh around 328.5 long tons and have a length of 179 feet, a beam of 25 feet, and a draft of 7.5 feet.

Their maximum speed is placed at 35 knots and they have a range of between 2,000 to 2,500 nautical miles.

Cyclone-class patrol vessels are armed with two 25mm autocannons and several high-powered machine guns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136252

Groups say NICA’s mandate to warn public vs. Reds' allies

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): Groups say NICA’s mandate to warn public vs. Reds' allies (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Anti-communist groups said it is the mandate of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) to warn the public against national security threats.

In a joint statement Thursday, the League of Parents of the Philippines (LPP), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), Melchora Women's Partylist, Youth Power against Destabilization and Terrorism (YPADT), and Duterte Youth Partylist have backed the claim of National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo that the union of Senate employees is affiliated to the communist group.

"We the various multi-sectoral organizations have thrown its support to the efforts of Dir. Gen. Montaegudo of NICA in his effort to enlighten the public on the dangers of government unions being affiliated to COURAGE that has also strong affiliations with Bayan and Bayan Muna, actually they are member-organizations of both of it," the groups said.

In an earlier Facebook post, Monteagudo said the Senate workers' union, the Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Organisasyon (Senado), has been “the eyes and the ears of the CPP, the New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF)."

"In fairness to him, it is his mandate as the head of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to inform and raise the level of awareness of the public on such issues," they said. "Countless records and personal accounts clearly manifest the role of COURAGE in the legal front facade of the CPP-NPA-NDF."

According to the law, the NICA directs, coordinates, and integrates all government activities involving national intelligence.

"It serves as the focal point for the preparation of intelligence estimates of local and foreign situations."

Eye-opener

The groups said the Senate should not misinterpret Montegudo's intention to aware them of the possible threats to national security.

They added it should serve as an eye-opener for the public about the communist' allied groups.

"On the contrary, senators should not take it as red-tagging but should be very appreciative to the effort of the Director-General. We clearly believe that there is no intention to malign the integrity of the SENATE, its employees, the union, or even the senators," they said.

The groups added that it was CPP founding chairman Jose Maria "Joma" Sison himself who red-tagged several individuals and militant organizations.

"As we all know, the CPP founder and present chairman Joma Sison has publicly tagged and confirmed that 'Bayan' is a legal front of them," the statement read.

The groups said associating these front organizations and individuals with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDF) were based on the pronouncements of Sison in a video during a meeting at the International Center, CIC in Brussels, Belgium on March 4, 1987.

“At any rate, even while there are of the armed revolution, there are the legal democratic forces in the Philippines. The biggest of these is Bagong Alyansang Makabayan or BAYAN, in short. Its biggest component organizations are: Kilusang Mayo Uno which is the labor center; the Kilusang Magbubukid (KMP); GABRIELA, the woman’s Alliance; League of Filipino Students (LFS); Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT); KADENA; and so on,” Sison was quoted as saying.

The groups likewise condemned the "baseless" allegations tossed against Monteagudo by raising awareness about the front organizations of the communist terrorist groups.

"We also condemn the baseless accusation against Monteagudo that he is red-tagging the S.E.N.A.D.O union and C.O.U.R.A.G.E," they said.

Appeal to senators

The anti-communist groups, meanwhile, urged senators to review the alleged reds' infiltration within the government.

"To our beloved Senators, viewed the matter as a positive note in order to preserve the integrity of the SENATE as a clean institution without any creeping danger of being infiltrated by Communist Terrorist Group," they said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier said Senate employees suspected of being affiliated with the communist movement will be investigated.

Sotto told NICA to give him the names of the employees to push a further investigation, however, identities will remain confidential once submitted.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136262

NICA chief just telling truth on Senate employees union Red-links

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): NICA chief just telling truth on Senate employees union Red-links (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo (PNA File photo)

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director-General Alex Paul Monteagudo on Thursday claimed they are merely telling the truth when they said that the union of Senate employees is being controlled by front organizations of communist terrorists.

Monteagudo was referring to the "Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkakaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Organisasyon" (SENADO) that he earlier claimed to be controlled by the labor group, Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE).

In an interview over DZAR, Monteagudo dismissed claims that what he did was red-tagging, adding that they merely told the public that SENADO is affiliated with COURAGE that is a "front organization" – a front-organization of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF)..

He added that this cannot be red-tagging as they merely told the truth about the ties of these two organizations.

Monteagudo said coming out with such information is part of their mandate so the public will know of organizations with links to the communist terrorists "hiding in plain sight".

He said not all members of SENADO are likely supporters of the CPP-NPA but added that COURAGE might provide the CPP-NPA access to SENADO, and influence its members through lectures and indoctrination.

"That’s the danger because they have access to confidential information in the Senate," he added.

"Ang Senado madalas mag-hold ng executive committee briefings at hearings, may classified information na hawak. Nagkakaroon sila ng access dito kaya malaking bagay ang meron silang empleyado na sumusuporta sa CPP-NPA within the Senate (The Senate often holds executive committee briefings and hearings, and these have classified information. They will have access to those so that it is important for them to have some employees supporting the CPP-NPA within the Senate)," Monteagudo said.

He added that access to the confidential information would allow the CPP-NPA-NDF to mobilize its other front organizations to preempt the government's programs.

"Bakit nang nag-declare si Pangulong Duterte na libre ang tuition sa state universities, wala tayong narinig na nagpasalamat ang estudyante ng UP? (Why is it that when President Duterte declared that tuition n all state universities will be waived, we did not hear any word of gratitude from UP students)," he said.

Members of SENADO, he added, face the danger of exploitation.

He said other employees' associations in government can take a cue from their counterparts in the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

DSWD employees' association, he said, disassociated itself from COURAGE after realizing its members were being exploited.

"Marami pang mga front organisasyon na maaring affiliated sa COURAGE. Hindi nila alam ito ay communist-terrorist front organization. Maganda ang kanilang intention sumali sa una para magtulungan ang employees association. Kaya ngayon inilalabas natin ngayon para mamulat ang ating empleyado. Ang empleyado sweldo ng mamamayan, they work for the people, they pledge allegiance to our Constitution (There are a lot of front-organizations that might be affiliated. They might not know that these are communist-terrorist front organizations. They might have good intentions when they first joined to help these employees' organizations. (Government) employees are being paid by the people, they work for the people, and they pledge allegiance to our Constitution)," Monteagudo said.

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

"Ang problema kung party member ka ng CPP, ang allegiance mapunta sa CPP lalo kung indoctrinated at radicalized ka na. Gagamitin ang tao sa association. Yan ang kailangan malaman ng kawani ng gobyerno. Di lang sa SENADO, kundi sa lahat na isang bagay na ina-address ng DILG [Department of the Interior and Local Government] (The problem is if you are a member of the CPP, your allegiance goes to the CPP especially when you are already indoctrinated and radicalized. They will use the people in the association. That's what government employees need to know. Not only those in SENADO, but all employees associations and other matters addressed by the DILG)," he added.

Monteagudo said he is hopeful Senate President Vicente Sotto III will be fair in addressing the concerns he raised about the employees' association of the Senate.

"We believe the Senate President will be fair in addressing these concerns," he added. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136272

PH, US discuss defense pact amid Chinese swarming in WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): PH, US discuss defense pact amid Chinese swarming in WPS (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and US State Secretary Antony Blinken on Friday discussed the two nations' concerns over the continued presence of Chinese vessels at the West Philippine Sea, including the Julian Felipe Reef.

In a readout, the State Department said "both expressed their shared concerns" with the massing of Chinese vessels in the area and "reiterated their calls on the People's Republic of China to abide by the 2016 arbitration ruling".

During the call, Blinken reaffirmed the applicability of the 1951 United States-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty to the South China Sea.

The US State Department said both officials noted the importance of "working closely to enhance" the seven-decades-old defense pact in light of the recent geopolitical developments and challenges in the Asia Pacific region, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

"Secretary Blinken and Secretary Locsin welcomed enhanced bilateral and multilateral cooperation on the South China Sea," it said.

The two top diplomats also touched on Washington D.C.'s assistance to Manila's Covid-19 response as well as its efforts to combat rising hate and violence against Asian-Americans in the US.

"Both Secretaries expressed confidence and optimism in the future trajectory of the Philippines-United States bilateral cooperation as this year marks the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries," the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The call coincided with the commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), which honors thousands of Filipino and American troops who were taken as prisoners of war by the Japanese and were forced to march some 112 kilometers from Bataan to Tarlac with no food and water in 1942.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136270

AFP to probe Chinese ships chase of PH vessel off WPS

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): AFP to probe Chinese ships chase of PH vessel off WPS (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo (left) and DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong (right) (File photo)

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday has directed the military the investigate reports that a Filipino vessel carrying a news team of local media network ABS-CBN was chased by two Chinese missile boats off the West Philippine Sea.

"The Defense Department has directed the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) through its Western Command to investigate, gather, and validate all the relevant facts on the incident, the outcome of which will be used to coordinate any appropriate action through the NTF WPS (National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea and engagement among the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), DND, DOTr (Department of Transportation) and other concerned agencies," Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

He added that the DND is also concerned about the incident as it involves the safety of civilians at sea.

Reports said the ABS-CBN news team was traveling across the various reefs and shoals in the West Philippine Sea on its way to Ayungin Shoal when the incident happened.

AFP probe

Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo echoed the DND's concern over the alleged harassment by Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy and Chinese Coast Guard vessels as reported by a team of journalists onboard a watercraft within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

"Through the AFP’s Western Command, we are conducting investigation and verifications to establish what transpired," he added in a statement Friday.

Arevalo said the AFP has already made representations with the ABS-CBN news reporter involved to provide them with raw footage or photographs of the incident to help the military establish the circumstances and document the incident.

Prudence

While he understands journalists' desire to keep the public informed through their coverages, Arevalo also urged them to exercise prudence in the performance of their jobs.

"The AFP is concerned with the safety and well-being of our Kababayans that we have been forthright and transparent in our reporting about the situation in our EEZ," he added.

Arevalo added that the AFP has accommodated members of media in military ships and aircraft to do their coverage so they can be protected while in the practice of their profession.

"Amidst the situation, the AFP reiterates its commitment to follow the dictates of the Constitution to protect the people and secure our sovereignty and sovereign rights," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136276

CPP-NPA infiltrates gov’t offices thru workers' unions: ex-cadre

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 9, 2021): CPP-NPA infiltrates gov’t offices thru workers' unions: ex-cadre (By Marita Moaje)

Former New People's Army cadre Jeffrey ‘Ka Eric’ Celiz, now Secretary-General of the Abante Sambayanan (PNA File photo)

The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) has infiltrated a number of government offices through the different employees union under the umbrella of the Confederation for Unity Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE).

In a virtual press conference on April 7, former NPA cadre Jeffrey ‘Ka Eric’ Celiz, now Secretary-General of the Abante Sambayanan, revealed that the CPP-NPA-NDF employs three layers of infiltration in order to penetrate various government offices.

Celiz said about 1.7 million government workers are affiliates of COURAGE.

“Ang courage ay recruitment platform and recruitment agency created precisely by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) para mag infiltrate ng hanay ng ating mga government rank and file workers (Courage is a recruitment platform and recruitment agency created precisely by the CPP to infiltrate the rank and file government workers) numbering more than 1.7 million,” he said.

He said this is based on the doctrines, orientation, experiences, and strategic direction of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Celiz added that the value and importance of government workers are very strategic in order to infiltrate, radicalize, recruit and move the CPP-NPA-NDF and weaken the government from within.

“Napakahalaga ng papel ng mga government workers na kinu-consider ng communist party as the transmission belt o daluyan ng serbisyo at ugnayan ng gobyerno at ng mamamayan (The role played by government workers is vital as they are considered by the CPP as the transmission belt or medium of flow between the government and the people),” he said.

Revolutionary dual tactics

Celiz added that this is part of the revolutionary dual tactics where Courage poses as an open, legal organization, but in reality, it is the NPA cadre operatives who organize them in urban centers.

He said this is happening in various government employees union not only with the Sandigan ng mga Empleyadong Nagkaisa sa Adhikain ng Demokratikong Organisasyon (SENADO) and in the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Social Welfare Employees Association of the Philippines (SWEAP) which has disaffiliated with COURAGE in early 2021

“Hindi lang ito sa Senate, ganun din po sa Supreme Court and even in the other 37 or more agencies of government, including DSWD, na unti unti nang tumitiwalag, humihiwalay at nagbubunyag ng infiltration, manipulation, deception, recruitment, and radicalization na ginagawa ng CPP NPA NDF sa hanay ng mga kawani ng empleyado ng gobyerno, including sa National Housing Authority at iba’t ibang sangay ng pamahalan (This is not only in Senate, but also at the Supreme Court and even in 37 or more agencies of the government, including DSWD that slowly disaffiliated and revealed the infiltration, manipulation, deception, recruitment, and radicalization done by the CPP-NPA-NDF among government employees including NHA and other agencies),” he added.

3 layers of infiltration

The first step, he said, is to recruit members through their advocacy using issue-based organizations.

“Sa case ng Senado, yung mga employees association nila, nagtayo muna sila ng grupo ng mga empleyado, nung mga manggagawa sa Senado, and issue nila welfare and benefits (In the Senate, their employees' association, they created groups of Senate employees and their issue is the welfare and benefits),” he said.

Celiz said this is a legitimate issue nobody would contradict, but thereafter, they will affiliate the employees associated with COURAGE that will begin to radicalize government workers to become critical and fight government authorities or the head of the agency to which they belong.

When the leaders continue to move forward, they go to the second layer, one by one, activists and potential leaders identified among the ranks of the government workers who are within a chapter or affiliate unit of COURAGE will be recruited based on their security level and potential to be developed as cadre or leader organizers.

After which they will be recruited to the underground organization Makabayang Kawaning Pilipino (MKP).

“Dito na nagsisimula ang pagsisinungaling at ang panloloko kasi ang MKP ay hindi open organization, underground ito at connected ito sa NDF, tumutulong ito sa armadong pagkilos at operasyon ng CPP NPA NDF, at ito ang delikado kasi ito ay recruitment sa loob mismo ng chapter ng COURAGE (Here starts the lies and deception because MKP is not an open organization. This is underground and connected to the NDF. They help in the armed movement and operations of the CPP-NPA-NDF, and this is dangerous because the recruitment happens right inside the chapter of COURAGE. The third level is the recruitment to become members of the CPP),” he said.

This, he said, is the same pattern and process being applied to public school teachers, the youth, students, and even in the communities.

Celiz added that this should also serve as a wake-up call for Senate President Tito Sotto and all the members of the Senate to understand that there is a need to review and revisit the process of hiring of employees, including the operations of the employees association.

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.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136281