CPP/NDF-EV: Highest honors to Antonio “Ka Manlimbasog” Cabanatan!

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 11, 2021): NDF-EV: Highest honors to Antonio “Ka Manlimbasog” Cabanatan!

NDF-EASTERN VISAYAS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

APRIL 11, 2021

The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas gives the highest honors to Kasamang Antonio “Manlimbasog” Cabanatan and his wife Kasamang Florenda “Osang” Yap, Party leaders and martyrs of the Filipino people. They were abducted, secretly detained, physically and psychologically tortured for months until murdered by state forces. Both elderly and ailing, they had retired from revolutionary work since 2017.

We condemn and hold accountable the fascist terrorist US-Duterte regime, its troops in the AFP-PNP, and Duterte’s military junta in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict for the couple’s cold-blooded murder. Such is the brutality of the Duterte regime’s all-out war. Revolutionary justice shall hound the perpetrators of this gruesome crime until they are punished.

The revolutionary forces in Eastern Visayas recognize Ka Manlimbasog as one of the pioneers of the national-democratic revolution in the region. Beginning active revolutionary work as a student activist in the 1960s, he led the spread of revolutionary propaganda and founded progressive mass organizations among students and basic sectors in the Visayas until Northern Mindanao. He would be among the young intellectuals to heed the call to go the countryside and take upon the grueling task of sowing the seeds of armed revolution among the peasant masses. From then on he served the revolution until his death.

After joining the Party in 1971, he became a member of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, its executive committee and secretariat. Leading the Samar-Leyte subregional party committee, he returned to his roots in Eastern Samar where he founded the first Party branches as well as in Western Samar and conducted social investigation among the peasant and fisherfolk. After his detention from 1972 to 1974, Ka Manlimbasog would return to lead the first district Party committee which led the first guerrilla front and squad of the New People’s Army in the island. He served as political officer of the platoon and was part of the command for operations of the NPA in the northern part of Samar.

From 1975 to 1977, tactical offensives by the NPA in the island intensified. Later, Ka Manlimbasog together with Kasamang Prudencio Calubid would lead the expansion of guerrilla warfare in north-eastern Samar, Northern Samar and north-western Samar. Throughout Samar, Party branches and revolutionary mass organizations grew and spread, along with anti-feudal campaigns, propaganda and educational work, organs of political power and NPA tactical offensives. Because these foundations were successfully laid, people’s war in Eastern Visayas grew even more in number and strength and by 1979 cadres, Red fighters, and rifles were deployed to relatively weaker regions. Eventually it would become one of the decisive forces to smite and topple the fascist US-Marcos dictatorship.

In the 1980s, Ka Manlimbasog held key positions in the Visayas and Mindanao Commission. He was also a member of the Central Committee of the Party, the Political Bureau, and the Executive Committee. He correctly stood for the Second Great Rectification and led the struggle against the opportunists in the Visayas and Mindanao. From 1990 onwards, he served as secretariat for the Mindanao Commission during the time of great advances in the revolutionary movement in the cities and in the countryside.

Ka Manlimbasog was a hunchback who stood tall among giants. His physical disability never hindered him from performing revolutionary work in the countryside up until his retirement. He was arrested thrice during the Marcos dictatorship but he always returned to the revolution. He went where he was needed, from integrating among peasants and fisherfolk, to breaking and entering haciendas, overcoming Samar’s mountainous terrain, and evading enemy operations. Able-bodied Red fighters, in awe of his determination, would carry him on their back during difficult treks. He was a shining example of selfless sacrifice and unwavering service to the people.

People who worked with him know his aversion to flowery, circumlocutious speeches. Especially younger revolutionaries, they appreciate how he diligently listens to them during educational discussions, politely correcting them if needed. Education, Ka Manlimbasog often said, should be direct and comprehensible to the basic masses.

The revolutionary forces in Eastern Visayas and the broad masses grieve for Ka Manlimbasog and for all other martyrs who were brutally and cowardly murdered by Duterte’s armed agents. In the midst of the regime’s fascist onslaught, they serve as inspiration to remain brave and persist with waging armed revolution. For those whom they left, they shall be our guiding light as we continue the just struggle to which they offered their lives.

Emulate the great example of Ka Manlimbasog and all revolutionary martyrs!
Down with the fascist terrorist US-Duterte regime!
Carry forward the people’s war until victory!

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-ev-highest-honors-to-antonio-ka-manlimbasog-cabanatan/

CPP/NPA-Eastern Visayas ROC: NPA slams AFP for parading commander’s remains in Leyte as “war trophy”

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 11, 2021): NPA slams AFP for parading commander’s remains in Leyte as “war trophy”

KARLOS MANUEL

SPOKESPERSON

EASTERN VISAYAS REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (EFREN MARTIRES COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

APRIL 11, 2021

The New People’s Army in Eastern Visayas today lambasted the Armed Forces of the Philippines after its troops exhumed and published pictures of the remains of an NPA commander who was martyred in an encounter in Leyte six years ago, in violation of international humanitarian law.

Ka Karlos Manuel, spokesperson for the Efren Martires Command (NPA-EMC), said the 802nd Infantry Brigade under the command of Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros violated international humanitarian law when soldiers and local police dug up last April 3 the grave of Arnulfo “Ka Sangay/Ka Rawin” Opo, who was killed while fighting government troops in Sitio Kapitungan, Brgy. Libo, Carigara in 2015.

“What else can we expect from the AFP whose troops throughout the country have been desecrating and showing off as ‘war trophies’ the remains of NPA fighters, including Rona Jane “Ka Amir” Manalo and Andrea “Ka Naya” Rosal in Palawan, Jevilyn “Ka Reb” Cullamat in Surigao del Sur, and Justine “Ka Aira” Bautista in Cagayan Valley?” Manuel said.

“In these cases, the soldiers took pictures of their remains and brandished them without any remorse or respect for the dead. They cannot afford their adversaries to let them rest in dignity and peace. These acts which are bereft of basic human morality are unsurprising given the mercenary, fascist, and immoral institution that is the AFP.”

Ka Rawin came from a family of known revolutionaries and martyrs. In his youth he was subjected to government surveillance and had to assume the name “Eleazar Sabidales” to attend school. Following his parents’ and siblings’ footsteps, he eventually joined the NPA and would become commander of the front guerrilla unit in Leyte until his death. He was also a member of the Leyte Island Party Committee.

His comrades recognized him as a well-rounded Party cadre and military commander. He was militant, disciplined, courageous, politically sharp and easily got along with Red fighters and the masses. When government troops raided their unit in 2016, Ka Sangay bravely fought off enemy forces and let his comrades retreat to safer ground. His comrades returned to retrieve his body not long after to give him a proper burial. Members of his immediate family were also promptly notified.

“Oliveros and the AFP should stop spitting their poisonous lies and disrespecting Ka Rawin’s memory. His life and selfless sacrifice carry far greater weight than their dirty war. The revolutionary movement and the entire Filipino people are forever indebted to Ka Rawin and all revolutionary martyrs, and give them the highest honors for their wholehearted service to the people,” Manuel asserted.

The NPA-EMC spokesperson called on the Commission on Human Rights, rights-based organizations and the Filipino people to express their indignation against what he called “an epidemic of disrespecting and trophying the dead” among the Duterte regime’s troops.

He called for Oliveros of the 802nd IBde and all other military officers who commanded the exhumation and brandishing of Ka Sangay’s remains to be held criminally accountable for violating international humanitarian law and the AFP’s own Code of Conduct. #

https://cpp.ph/statements/npa-slams-afp-for-parading-commanders-remains-in-leyte-as-war-trophy/

CPP/NPA-COMVAL-North Davao-South Augusan Sub-ROC: AFP bombing spree terrorizes peasants, Lumad in Agusan del Sur

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 10, 2021): AFP bombing spree terrorizes peasants, Lumad in Agusan del Sur

NPA-COMVAL–NORTH DAVAO–SOUTH AGUSAN SUB-REGIONAL COMMAND

SOUTHERN MINDANAO REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (MERARDO ARCE COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

APRIL 10, 2021

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“Naghulat lang gyud mi nga mahulogan mi og bomba!” (We were just waiting for a bomb to fall on us!)

This was the agonizing statement of one pregnant peasant woman after the series of dawn aerial bombardment by fascist AFP troops in La Paz, Agusan del Sur last week.

On April 6, 2021, between 4:30 to 5:30 am, two FA-50 fighter jets dropped three bombs each and subsequently rained .50 caliber machine gun fire in the forested areas of Brgy. Kasapa 2, close to the farms and houses of Lumad and peasants. As the fighter jets dropped bombed, a Cessna intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew overhead, later joined by two other unmanned aerial vehicles.

A few hours later, another bomber plane continued dropping bombs and strafed the area until midday. While no one was seriously hurt, the masses reported that some of their neighbors sustained bruises and minor injuries in trying to scramble to safety.

No NPA unit was in the area. The sheer gratuitous show of military force shocked not one Red fighter, but did manage to terrorize several poor Lumad and peasants–including elderly, pregnant women and children. The masses decry this useless spending of millions of public money which they say could have been used to help them make ends meet during this time of the pandemic.

Prior to the bombing incident, troops the 60th Infantry Battalion have already been on combat operations since February 28, which they commenced with three rounds of artillery fire directed at the same forested areas of Brgy. Kasapa 2. Residents in the area and adjacent barangays reported that around 600 regular combat personnel of the 60th IB and 26th IB, including paramilitaries CAFGU and Bagani, have swarmed the tri-boundary areas of La Paz, Loreto, and San Luis in Agusan del Sur, and Kapalong in Davao del Norte. The fascist goons harass locals, forcing them to “surrender” and forcibly recruiting them to join the Bagani or CAFGU.

These terroristic acts of AFP troops highlight the US-Duterte regime’s fascist nature in the face of the economic downturn due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead of giving relief and improving healthcare services, the regime instead chooses to channel foreign-borrowed funds toward extravagant military spending.

It also shows the cold indifference and criminal neglect of the regime. Displaying its lack of understanding of and insensitivity to the plight of Lumad and peasants, the AFP rained bombs and artillery fire over the area at a crucial time when the masses were busy trying to ensure they were able to plant corn or rice for the panuig, the traditional planting season between April and May where the harvest is usually more plentiful. The 60th IB troops have now cordoned off the area, consequently denying the farmers the chance in securing better harvest to offset the hardships of the past year. Until now, the peasants are being denied entry to their farms. This is on top of the already existing economic restrictions being forcibly carried out by the 60th IB checkpoints in the area, where the masses are regularly subjected to harassment and intimidation.

But why the intense combat operations and wanton artillery and aerial bombardment in these areas? The hinterland villages of La Paz and its neighboring towns are an economic goldmine, which Duterte’s ruling clique is salivating over. Mt. Kinambaihan in La Paz is a target for foreign large-scale mining.

Since last year, reactionary officials under the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in cahoots with the 60th IB have hamletted Lumad families in Brgy. Gupitan in Kapalong, dragging them out of their ancestral domain and into housing units to make way for banana plantations.

Mt. Diamond in Loreto is also a target for foreign large-scale mining, with roads already under construction. The masses in the area are angered by this intrusive project because they know that the roads are not being built as farm-to-market roads but for the easy entry of mining companies instead.

The AFP has proven yet again as a mercenary protector of the foreign and large capitalist interests out to bleed the country’s natural resources dry.

The masses have also reported that even in the ranks of the fascist mercenaries, the disunity is obvious and manifesting. The foot soldiers complain of the difficult terrain, the tiresome, no-let-up combat operations and the demeaning treatment from their officials. The masses note this low morale in the face of difficulties as a marked difference from their true army, the NPA, whose Red commanders and fighters become tempered in the armed struggle’s inevitable sacrifices and continue to enjoy the people’s trust and support in fighting a just war.

https://cpp.ph/statements/afp-bombing-spree-terrorizes-peasants-lumad-in-agusan-del-sur/

CPP/NPA-Sorsogon: Sa 31st IB, better luck next time

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 10, 2021): Sa 31st IB, better luck next time

SAMUEL GUERRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SORSOGON (CELSO MINGUEZ COMMAND)

BICOL REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (ROMULO JALLORES COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

APRIL 10, 2021

Nabalitaan namin ang rally sa sentro ng Barcelona, Sorsogon kahapon ng umaga, Abril 8, na pinasimunuan ng 31st IB at nilahukan ng mga pinasurender na dating NPA at sibilyan. Namonitor namin ang byahe ng trak na humakot sa mga surenderi papunta sa benyu ng rally. Candle-lighting daw ang tampok na bahagi ng aktibidad.

Hindi gaanong malinaw sa amin ang “karaingan” ng mga dumalo sa naturang aktibidad bagamat napag-alaman naming may kinalaman iyon sa pagkamatay ng intelligence asset ng 31st IB na si Raymundo “Kaday” Fombuena sa operasyon ng NPA nitong Marso 28 sa San Antonio, Barcelona. May reklamo yata ang mga handler ni Kaday ukol sa pagkakapatay sa kanya at ipinasisigaw nila iyon sa mga surenderi.

Sa aming palagay, sapat na naipaliwanag sa pahayag ng Celso Minguez Command noon mismong araw ng pagpatay kay Kaday ang lehitimong batayan ng nasabing aksyon ng NPA. Gayunpaman, handa kaming makinig sa anumang di pagsang-ayon ninuman sa aming tindig sa usapin. Bukas kami, sa katunayan, na tugunan ang anumang karaingan ninuman kung iyon ay may lehitimo ring batayan.

Nagkaroon sana kami ng pagkakataong marinig ang iniaangal ng 31st IB at ng hinakot na mga surenderi kung sa bundok sila nag-rally imbes na sa poblasyon. Nabasa sana namin ang kanilang mga plakard na alam naming pinaghirapan nilang gawin.

May mga tamang lugar, oras at paraan para sa anumang aktibidad, kabilang na ang pagsasagawa ng rally, para matiyak na magiging epektibo ito at hindi masasayang ang pagod ng mga kalahok. Isang partikular naming payo sa 31st IB–mas mainam ang candle-lighting kung ginagawa sa gabi, hindi alas-9:00 ng umaga.

https://cpp.ph/statements/sa-31st-ib-better-luck-next-time/

CPP/NDF-KM-Southern Mindanao: Pinagpapatuloy ng Kabataang Makabayan ang magiting na paglaban sa pasismo at tiraniya

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 9, 2021): Pinagpapatuloy ng Kabataang Makabayan ang magiting na paglaban sa pasismo at tiraniya

KARINA MAGTANGGOL

SPOKESPERSON

KABATAANG MAKABAYAN-SOUTHERN MINDANAO

NDF-SOUTHERN MINDANAO

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

APRIL 09, 2021

Isang rebolusyonaryong pagsaludo ngayong Araw ng Kagitingan mula sa Kabataang Makabayan, rehiyon ng Southern Mindanao, para sa magigiting na kabataang hukbo ng masang pinagsasamantalahan. Patuloy ang paglaban ng mga kabataan sa diktador at pahirap na rehimeng US-Duterte.

Mula noon hanggang ngayon, patuloy na ipinapakita ng mga makabayang kabataan ang katapangan sa walang humpay na paniningil sa naghaharing uri, lalung-lalo na sa pagtindig at pagharap sa walang-habas na terorismo ng rehimeng Duterte sa mamamayang Pilipino.

Sa paniniil at pasismo ni Duterte sa mamamayan, umabot na ng animnapu’t isang (61) abogado, dalawang daan at walumpu’t walo (288) na mga magsasaka at mangingisda, tatlong daan at labing walong (318) aktibista at progresibong indibidwal, labing siyam (19) na mamahayag, at isang daan at dalawampu’t dalawang (122) mga bata ang napaslang sa limang taong tiraniya ng rehimen.

Sa kabila ng tumitinding crackdown at pamamaslang sa mga kabataan, hinding-hindi natitinag ang makabayang kabataan sa pagsingil kay Duterte sa bawat utang na dugo ng kanyang administrasyon. Lumalago at dumarami ang hanay ng mga makabayang kabataang mulat at nagmumulat ng mas marami pa. Ipinamamalas nila ang malikhaing mga paraan upang itambol ang mga panawagan ng mamamayan.

Sa kanayunan, ang mga kabataang kasapi ng New People’s Army (NPA) ay buong giting na hinaharap ang mga sakripisyo sa buhay-at-kamatayang pakikibaka habang mahigpit na pinanghahawakan ang linyang pampulitika ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan. Gaya ng animnapung libong (60,000) Pilipinong nagbuwis ng kanilang buhay sa araw na ito 79 taon ang nakalilipas upang manindigan laban sa mananakop na mga Hapones, ang mga miyembro ng NPA ay magiting na tinahak ang landas ng armadong pakikibaka upang makamit ang tunay na kalayaan tungo sa isang lipunang may pagkakapantay-pantay. Hindi kailanman malilimutan ang mga rebolusyonaryong martir mula sa hanay ng kabataan at mga estudyante na tinahak ang landas ng rebolusyonaryong armadong pakikibaka.

Ngayong Araw ng Kagitingan, binibigyan natin ng pinakamataas na pagsaludo ang mga ‘di tanyag na mga bayaning patuloy na nakikibaka para wasakin ang sistemang mapagsamantala. Sa panahon ng tiraniya ng asong-ulol na si Duterte na sunud-sunuran sa interes ng imperyalistang US at China, huwaran at inspirasyon ng kabataan ang mga martir ng Bataan Death March ng 1942 sa pakikibaka para sa katarungan at pagsulong ng digmang bayan hanggang tagumpay.

MABUHAY ANG KABATAANG MAKABAYAN!

MABUHAY ANG MASANG API! ISULONG ANG REBOLUSYON NG MAMAMAYAN! PAGLINGKURAN ANG SAMBAYANAN!

https://cpp.ph/statements/pinagpapatuloy-ng-kabataang-makabayan-ang-magiting-na-paglaban-sa-pasismo-at-tiraniya/

CPP/CPP-PIO-Southern Tagalog: Pagpupugay at pakikiisa sa pakikibaka ng mamamayan ng Myanmar

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 8, 2021): Pagpupugay at pakikiisa sa pakikibaka ng mamamayan ng Myanmar

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

SOUTHERN TAGALOG REGIONAL COMMITTEE

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

APRIL 08, 2021

Pulang pagbati ang ipinaaabot ng PKP-TK sa mamamayan ng Myanmar sa mahigit dalawang buwang halos araw-araw na pagprotesta laban sa mabagsik na huntang militar. Malaking inspirasyon ang kanilang pakikibaka na hindi napigilan ng pandemya at karahasan ng estado. Marapat lamang itong suportahan ng mga mamamayan sa daigdig na mapagmahal sa kalayaan at demokrasya.

Matatandaang nagkudeta ang Tatmadaw (mga pwersang militar sa Myanmar) noong Pebrero 1 para patalsikin ang mga demokratikong halal na mga upisyal ng bansa. Inagaw nila ang kapangyarihan matapos matalo ang kanilang prenteng partido sa partido ni Aung San Suu Kyi, ang lider ng sibilyang burukrasya. Ibinilanggo rin sina Suu Kyi at matagal na hindi inilitaw bago isinakdal sa kanilang korte. Mahigpit itong kinundena ng mamamayang Burmese at nagprotesta para palayain si Suu Kyi at ibalik ang demokrasya sa kanilang bayan.

Mahusay na halimbawa at karapat-dapat tularan ang laksa-laksang mamamayang Burmese na nagpoprotesta laban sa diktadura. Kahanga-hanga ang isinasagawa nilang mga mabilisang protesta o gerilyang rali upang patuloy na maipaabot ang kanilang pagtutol. Nakakapagtipon din sila sa pamamagitan ng iba pang pamamaraan o aktibidad kagaya ng mga vigil. Sa maraming syudad, nagbabarikada ang mga nagpoprotesta at nagtatanggol gamit ang anumang sandata na mahahawakan tulad ng air guns, molotov cocktails, bato, pamalo at iba pa.

Patuloy na sinisikil ng Tatmadaw ang mamamayan ng Myanmar. Marahas na dinidispers ang mga nagpoprotesta kung saan humigit-kumulang na sa 570 raliyista ang pinaslang, 46 dito ay mga bata. Noong Marso 27, umabot sa 141 ang pinaslang ng mga militar na tinaguriang pinakamadugong araw sa Myanmar.

Sa parehong araw, inatake at dinamay ng mga militar ang mga grupo ng pambansang minorya sa kanilang kampanyang panunupil. Naglunsad sila ng air raids sa Silangang bahagi ng Karen State sa kabila ng umiiral na ceasefire sa pagitan ng Karen National Union (KNU) at gubyernong Myanmar. Libu-libong katutubo ang nasugatan at lumikas patungo sa mga kahanggang bansa ng Thailand at India habang 20 ang namatay. Ginawa ito ng Tatmadaw upang maghasik ng takot at pigilan ang pagkakaisa ng buong bansa. Pinutol pa ang internet para hadlangan ang mga pagtitipon.

Ang walang humpay na pandarahas ng huntang militar ng Myanmar ay umani ng kaliwa’t kanang pagbatikos sa internasyunal na komunidad. Nakikiisa ang PKP-TK sa pagkundina sa mararahas na dispersal at panunupil ng mga pwersang panseguridad ng hunta sa mamamayan ng Myanmar, kabilang ang mga bata, at atrosidad sa mga minorya.

Sa ganitong diwa, sumusuporta ang PKP-TK sa pakikibaka ng mamamayan ng Myanmar. Makatarungan ang pagkakapit-bisig ng lahat ng mga mamamayang niyuyurakan ang karapatan. Kailangang patuloy na igiit ng mamamayang Burmese ang kanilang karapatan sa sariling pagpapasya laban sa mapaniil na diktadurang militar at nang walang sumasagkang dayuhang kapangyarihan. Makatarungang magsulong ng armadong paglaban upang kamtin ang pambansang kalayaan at demokrasya. Punumpuno ng aral ang pakikibakang Burmese at Pilipino sa pagsusulong ng laban sa diktadura at paglalansag sa pagkubabaw ng imperyalismo sa mahihirap na bayan.###

https://cpp.ph/statements/pagpupugay-at-pakikiisa-sa-pakikibaka-ng-mamamayan-ng-myanmar/

CPP: Unite to fight Chinese imperialist annexation of Philippine marine territory

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 7, 2021): Unite to fight Chinese imperialist annexation of Philippine marine territory

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
APRIL 07, 2021

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) unites with various Filipino patriotic forces in demanding the immediate pull-out of all Chinese armed maritime vessels illegally moored or carrying out fishing or extraction of marine resources in and around the Julian Felipe Reef and other areas within the Philippines exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Party considers China’s deployment of more than 220 armed vessels as part of its systematic encroachment and expansion of its imperialist annexation of Philippine maritime territory both for economic and military purposes. As an imperialist power, China has committed military aggression against the Philippines by building military fortresses in a number of artificial islands within the country’s EEZ.

The Party reiterates its position that all military structures built by China within the Philippine EEZ must immediately be dismantled, and that it must be made to pay compensation as back rental for all the illegally occupied areas. It must also remunerate the country for the coral reefs damaged in its land reclamation, as well as the fish and other marine resources illegally harvested by state-subsidized Chinese vessels.

The Party denounces the continued kowtowing of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to China. He has quieted the just protestations of some of his key officials and downplayed the outright armed encroachment into Philippine territory by Chinese militia vessels and its negative implications on Philippine sovereignty by insisting that Philippine-China relations are on a “positive trajectory.” Duterte is clearly persuaded by China’s “vaccine diplomacy,” false promises of “economic investments” and by the numerous bribes he has received and relations with Chinese drug syndicates cultivated over the past few years.

The Party calls for the establishment of a national united front against Chinese imperialist marine annexation. It calls on all forces, from the mass-based democratic forces to the conservative political oppositions as well as elements within the ruling regime and in the military and police forces, to exert all effort to assert the country’s sovereign rights and drive away the Chinese imperialist aggressors. The democratic mass movement, in particular, must mobilize its forces to manifest the strong united position of the Filipino people demanding respect for Philippine sovereignty and an end to Chinese economic plunder of Philippine natural resources.

They must demand the Duterte regime to make an unequivocal stand against Chinese military aggression and exhaust all political and diplomatic means to make China respect Philippine sovereignty and rights as validated by the 2016 international arbitral ruling under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS). Failure and refusal to do so must be considered as national treachery.

The Party acknowledges the calls of various sectors to divert resources from counterinsurgency to strengthening national defense. A growing number of military and police officers are increasingly disgruntled that fighter planes and attack helicopters are being used for aerial bombing of farming villages and mountain communities instead of being deployed to defend Philippine territory, as well as for the urgent need of ramping up the public health system amid the surge in the Covid-19 pandemic.

They are realizing the futility of deploying thousands of its troops to impose garrison-like conditions on rural villages and inflict abuses against the peasant masses that only succeed in further rousing people to join the armed resistance. There are also those who are critical of the extrajudicial killings being committed with impunity by police and military personnel that ultimately serve the schemes of the Duterte ruling clique to perpetuate its political dynasty in power and its regime of servility to China.

It must be clearly declared that, in line with the struggle to attain genuine national freedom, it is the patriotic duty of all Filipinos to defend Philippine sovereignty against all forms of foreign encroachments in the country’s marine, land and air territories. In the face of outright Chinese annexation of Philippine territories and plunder of resources, the country must rise and resist together as one.

https://cpp.ph/statements/unite-to-fight-chinese-imperialist-annexation-of-philippine-marine-territory/

Arrested ‘BIFF member’ yields 7 firearms in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11, 2021): Arrested ‘BIFF member’ yields 7 firearms in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)

SEIZED. The assorted high-powered firearms seized from an alleged member of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) following the Army-led law enforcement operation in Pikit, North Cotabato on Saturday (April 10, 2021). The firearms consisted of an M16 rifle, M14 rifle, M1 Garand rifle, two 12-gauge shotguns, a .45 caliber pistol, a .38 caliber revolver, and ammunition. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Military and police forces arrested a suspected member of the lawless Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and seized seven high-powered firearms and ammunition in North Cotabato, the Army here announced Sunday.

Lt. Col. Rommel T. Mundala, commander of the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB), led the operation along with 62nd Division Reconnaissance Company, the police’s Special Action Force, against a certain Taoki Payapat alias Alvin, an alleged BIFF member, in Barangay Langayen, Pikit, North Cotabato on Saturday afternoon.

Seized from Payapat were one M16 rifle, one M14 rifle, one M1 Garand rifle, two 12-gauge shotguns, one .45 caliber pistol, one .38 caliber revolver, and assorted ammunition.

Brig. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong, 602nd Infantry Brigade commander, attributed the success of the law enforcement operation on the close and constant coordination of all security forces in the area.

“After the clearing operation, all the recovered pieces of evidence were placed under proper custody while appropriate charges were filed by the police against the suspect,” Capulong said.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, commended the security forces involved in the successful joint law enforcement operation.

“Let us continue our fight against terrorism and preserve the peace by securing the communities under our joint area of operation against all lawless elements,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136396

Augmentation force boosts Army 6ID’s fight vs. insurgency

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11, 2021): Augmentation force boosts Army 6ID’s fight vs. insurgency

READY FOR ACTION. Members of the 1st Brigade Combat Team arrive to a warm welcome at Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao on April 6, 2021. The team is composed of artillerymen, support combat engineers, and explosive ordinance disposal teams. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) in Central Mindanao received a boost with the recent arrival of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) here.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the 6ID commander and chief of Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), welcomed the 1BCT, which was backed by armored personnel carriers, on April 6, 2021.

The troop augmentation is seen to strengthen the security forces’ presence in support of peace-building and development efforts in the region.

Uy said the 1BCT is a rapidly deployable unit composed of infantry, mechanized, and artillerymen; support combat engineers; and explosive ordinance disposal teams.

“It has been involved in the campaign against the Abu Sayyaf Group in the province of Sulu from 2019 until 2020 and has significantly contributed to the neutralization of local and foreign terrorists,” he said in a Facebook post on Sunday.

Last year, the 6ID and JTFC’s area of coverage was extended to cover the provinces of South Cotabato and part of Sarangani.

Uy said the additional troops will fortify the Philippine Army's capabilities and strengthen the campaign against local terrorist groups, including the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Dawlah Islamiya, New People’s Army, and other lawless groups in the Central and the South-Central Mindanao areas.

“This is part of our commitment to the residents in the region to serve the people and to secure the communities from any threat,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136385

PH raises WPS issue in Asean senior officials’ meet

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 11, 2021): PH raises WPS issue in Asean senior officials’ meet

ASEAN MEETING. Department of Foreign Affairs Acting Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and Asean Affairs Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso discusses the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea negotiations in a virtual Asean Senior Officials’ Meeting on April 7, 2021. She also called for equitable access to vaccines. (Photo courtesy of DFA)

Acting Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations Elizabeth Buensuceso underscored the Philippines’ commitment towards progress in the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea negotiations between Asean Member States and China.

Buensuceso, also Asean Affairs and Philippine Asean SOM (Senior Officials’ Meeting) Leader, urged all parties to adhere to the rule of law and exercise self-restraint during the Asean held via videoconference on April 7.

The Philippines is the current country coordinator for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-China Dialogue Relations.

“The continued deployment and lingering presence of a large swarm of maritime militia vessels within the Philippines’ maritime zones remains a serious concern and we reiterate that a conducive environment is crucial for the COC negotiations,” Buensuceso said in a news release on Saturday.

She also emphasized that actions that intimidate, escalate tensions, and undermine mutual trust and confidence, violate the sovereignty and sovereign rights, especially those that run counter to international law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) impede the progress and momentum of the COC negotiations and threaten its success.

Buensuceso also called on Asean, composed of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, to raise its collective voice to push for equitable access to vaccines, especially in consideration of developing countries.

She stressed that the procurement of vaccines under the Covid-19 Asean Response Fund (CARF) is highly commendable under the current circumstances given its urgency.

However, Asean should expedite its collective vaccine procurement so as not to lag behind in efforts to achieve herd immunity in the region and to address reports of global shortage of vaccines.

The meeting also discussed a wide range of issues and concerns, including updates on Brunei Darussalam’s chairmanship deliverables, Asean’s Covid-19 response, Asean Community Post-2025 Vision, review of the implementation of the Asean Charter, sub-regional cooperation, cross-pillar coordination, external relations, and Asean candidatures.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136377

Kalinaw News: 2 Abu Sayyaf Group brothers, 8 others yield in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 11, 2021): 2 Abu Sayyaf Group brothers, 8 others yield in Sulu



April 11, 2021, Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu- Yesterday, April 10, 2021, two former teen members of Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) and others surrender to military units in Sulu led by MGen William N Gonzales at Brgy Samak, Talipao, Sulu.

A ceremony for the formal local integration of ten ASG surrenderees which was facilitated by 1101st Infantry Brigade Commander BGen Antonio I Bautista Jr was held this Saturday afternoon at their Brigade Headquarters in Talipao, Sulu. BGen Bautista presented the 10 surrenderors to Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11th Infantry Division Commander MGen William N Gonzales.

The surrenderors were identified as Mis-al Sabtula under ASG leader Alden Bagadi; Marlon Aksan under subleader Raden Abu; Hasbi Mustamir, under the late ASG sub-leader Apo Mike; Alih Salim, Alwa Aidar, Faisal Amisar, Gager Ganih, Jamil Ganih, Hajul Arip and Musar Sakib Jumbli all under the late ASG leader Mohammad Said. The surrenderors are from the municipality of Indanan except Ganih who is from Patikul.

“They brought with them an M16 rifle, M1 Garand Rifle, Cal .30 and Cal .45 pistols. I commend our 100th Infantry Battalion and 15th Civil Military Operations Battalion for actively reaching out to our brothers who now wants to start anew. This is very timely as we approaching ramadan,” said BGen Bautista.

In an interview, 20-year old Alih Salim and 21-year-old Musar Jumli, who are brothers revealed that they joined ASG around 2016 – when they were still teenagers. “Niyaya kami ng isa naming barkada na sumama sa group ni Amah Maas. Noon, mga 50 ang miyembro ng grupo tapos kami ng kapatid ko yung umaakyat sa bundok para magdala ng nga bigas at kung ano pa na pagkain. Minsan buhat ko isang buong sako, ‘yung kapatid ko minsan may dala pa na kabayo,” Jumli said.

The two were just able to reach 3rd grade as they have lost interest in education especially after their father left for Sabah. With pressure from their peers and the promise of instant cash they ventured to go in and out the hinterlands of Sulu. The friend who recruited them have died with Mohammad Said during a clash with government forces in 2016.

“I am happy to know that these young men are now supporting themselves with their hard earned money in a bakery shop. I told them that there are also oppurtunities in the army which they politely declined as they would like to continue their passion in baking. Their dream is to have their own bakery,” said MGen Gonzales.

“I hope that other members, either they be active ASG or lie-low, would also come forward. Admit they were ones lost and free themselves of fear that they may be reported to government forces or they might be tracked down by their former comrades. We will assure that these former members will be assisted accordingly for they all pledged to actively help deny the ASG from taking refuge at their municipality,” added MGen Gonzales.

[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/2-abu-sayyaf-group-brothers-8-others-yield-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: JTF Central and PNP Operations gains 7 firearms in North Cotabato

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 11, 2021): JTF Central and PNP Operations gains 7 firearms in North Cotabato



Camp Siongco, Maguindanao – A combined efforts of the Joint Task Force Central and Philippine National Police resulted in the seizure of seven firearms at Sitio Pedtubo, Barangay Langayen, Pikit town of Cotabato on April 8, 2021.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Rommel T. Mundala, the Commanding Officer of 90th Infantry “Bigkis-Lahi” Battalion, the joint law enforcement operation of 90IB, 62nd Division Reconnaissance Company, PNP Special Action Force and Cotabato PNP was conducted against a certain Taoki Payapat alias Alvin, an alleged member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter which resulted in the recovery of one (1) M16 Rifle, one (1) M14 Rifle, one (1) M1 Garand Rifle, two (2) shotguns, one (1) Cal .45 Pistol, one (1) Cal .38 Revolver, and assorted ammunition.

Brigadier General Roberto S. Capulong, the 602nd Infantry Brigade Commander said that the success of this law enforcement operation relied on the close and constant coordination of all security forces in the area. “After the clearing operation, all the recovered pieces of evidence were placed under proper custody while the suspect was filed with necessary charges by police forces”, BGen. Capulong stressed.

Meanwhile, Major General Juvymax R. Uy PA, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry Division extended his commendation to the security forces involved in the successful joint law enforcement operation. “Let us continue our fight against terrorism and preserve the peace by securing the communities under our joint area of operation against all lawless elements”, MGen. Uy added.

[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/jtf-central-and-pnp-operations-gains-7-firearms-in-north-cotabato/

Kalinaw News: Additional Forces Augment JTF Central

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 11, 2021): Additional Forces Augment JTF Central



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) was welcomed and received by Major General Juvymax R Uy, Commander of JTF Central and 6ID last April 6, 2021, in a simple ceremony inside Camp Siongco, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao. The brigade-sized troop augmentation arrived in Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) Joint Area of Operation (JAO) starting on March 23, 2021, to strengthen security forces’ presence in support of the current peacebuilding and development efforts in South-Central Mindanao.

The 1BCT is primarily combined arms and a rapidly deployable unit composed of infantry, mechanized, artillery, support combat engineers, and EOD forces that are ready to assume any given tasks and missions. The 1BCT has been involved in the campaign against the Abu Sayyaf Group in the Province of Sulu from 2019 until 2020 and has significantly contributed to the neutralization of local and foreign terrorists. Further, the unit has been an active partner of Sulu Province in the realization of peace and development efforts in the said area.

It can be recalled last 2020 that JTF Central’s JAO was extended to cover the province of South Cotabato and part of Sarangani. Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of JTF Central and 6th Infantry ‘Kampilan’ Division said that the additional troops will fortify Philippine Army’s capabilities and strengthen the campaign against local terrorist groups such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Dawlah Islamiyah (DI), the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), and other lawless groups in South and South-Central Mindanao. He further stressed that the deployment of these troops will help in maintaining peace and order in this part of the country and to assist the Local Government Units in their development initiatives.

“This is part of our commitment to the residents of South-Central Mindanao to always serve the people and to secure the communities from any threat. These modernized forces are highly capable and can be rapidly deployed to adapt to any situation and address any threat in the country,” Maj. Gen. Uy added.

[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/additional-forces-augment-jtf-central/

Kalinaw News: Suspek ng pagpatay na kinanlong ng dating NPA, arestado

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 11, 2021): Suspek ng pagpatay na kinanlong ng dating NPA, arestado

Camp Downes, Ormoc City – Abril 10, 2021. Dalawang araw matapos ang engkwentro sa Brgy Anislagan, Calubian, Leyte kung saan nasawi si Nicolas P. Ibanez alyas Botoy ay matagumpay na naaresto at nasampahan ng warrant of arrest ng pinagsanib na pwersa ng kapulisan at kasundaluhan ang Top 1 Most Wanted Person (MWP) sa munisipyo ng Calubian, Leyte na si Marlon Mendoza y Sirat, 46 na taong gulang, may-asawa, kawani (maintenance personnel) ng DPWH Villaba, at residente ng Brgy. Jubay, Calubian, Leyte kaninang ika- 5:15 ng umaga sa Brgy. Railes, Calubian, Leyte.

Matatandaang inilunsad ang isang operasyon sa pangunguna ng kapulisan ng probinsya ng Leyte noong ika-8 ng Abril sa taong kasalukuyan upang ihain ang warrant of arrest kay Mendoza subalit ito ay nakatakas kasama ang iba pang miyembro ng grupo na binuo ni alyas Botoy na dating NPA at sangkot sa mga iligal na gawain at paggamit at pagtutulak ng droga.

Ang mga kapulisan na binubuo ng Calubian MPS, LPPO-PSOG, LPPO-PIU, RSOG 8, RIU8, 2ND LPMFC, na sinuportahan ng 802nd Infantry Brigade at 93rd Infantry Battalion, sa ilalim ng patnubay ng Police Director ng Leyte Provincial Police Office, PCOL Rodelio C. Samson ay naghain ng Warrant of Arrest kay Mendoza sa kasong Murder with no bail (docketed under CC No. CN-20-933 issued by Hon. Wenifredo C Cuaton, presiding judge, Branch 11, RTC 8, Calubian, Leyte). Ang nasabing suspek ay dinala sa Calubian MPS upang sumailalim sa criminal procedures.

Ayon kay Brigadier General Zosimo A. Oliveros, ang matagumpay na pag-aresto kay Medoza ay patunay na handang gawin ng mga alagad ng batas ang lahat ng paraan upang magampanan ang tungkulin sa bayan. Aniya, mananatiling katuwang ng kapulisan ang 802nd Infantry Brigade sa pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan at kaayusan sa Biliran, Leyte, at Southern Leyte.



[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/suspek-ng-pagpatay-na-kinanlong-ng-dating-npa-arestado/

Kalinaw News: Army thwarts NPA attempt to infiltrate Iloilo village, recovers war materiel

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): Army thwarts NPA attempt to infiltrate Iloilo village, recovers war materiel

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz – The 12th Infantry (Lick’Em) Battalion figured in another brief encounter with the CPP-NPA Terrorists in Barangay Alabidhan, Bingawan, Iloilo at early in the morning of Wednesday, April 07, 2021.

It happened after the troops received reports from the local populace on the presence of armed communist-terrorists passing through the village.

The brief encounter yielded to the seizure of two shotguns, two magazines for shotgun with ten rounds ammunition, magazine for 9mm pistol with 7 rounds of ammunition, four rounds carbine ammunition, shrapnels for landmine, 15 meters electrical wire, two backpacks, grocery items, two hammocks, cooking pot, personal belongings, and propaganda materials.

On Monday, April 05, the Community Support Program (CSP) Team of the 12IB also figured in a brief firefight with the members of NPA’s Baloy Platoon, Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon -Panay (KR-P) in Barangay Aglubong, Janiuay, Iloilo. The said encounter is also a result of the vigilance of the local populace in giving reports to the Army troops about the movement and location of the communist-terrorists.

Major General Eric Vinoya, the Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division attributed the two successful armed engagements to the support and cooperation of the peace-loving people in the area.

“In order for the Army to remain at the upper hand in the fight against the CPP-NPA Terrorists we need to be relentless in our operations against this group. Any information relayed to us by the locals and the communities will be acted promptly. We cannot cover every inch of Panay Island but we have forces strategically located in different areas that can ably react to any information that needs our attention. The collective approach of the security forces, of the government agencies and that of the people is the right solution to end the local communist armed conflict. While firefights may suggest disruption of the normal environment, but these are necessary in our fight to finally end insurgency in Panay Island,” MGen Vinoya said,

With the series of firefights as results of the people’s vigilance, the 3ID Commander warned the remaining NPAs. “You can no longer hide from the eyes of the Ilonggos. Wherever you go there are always people who are ready to report your presence and whereabouts. This is an indication that Iloilo towns are no longer safe havens for the terrorists like you,” MGen Vinoya stressed.

[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/army-thwarts-npa-attempt-to-infiltrate-iloilo-village-recovers-war-materiel/

Kalinaw News: Army Units and NICA-10 Conducts Information Awareness Campaign

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): Army Units and NICA-10 Conducts Information Awareness Campaign

Maramag, Bukidnon – Central Mindanao University, Administrative Council, Faculty Members, Students, and university security forces headed by Dr. Jesus Antonio G. Derije attend the Information Awareness Campaign regarding CPP-NPA Terrorist Campus Infiltration at CMU Convention Center, University Town, Musuan, Dologon, Maramag Bukidnon on 06 April 2021.

The information awareness campaign regarding CPP-NPA Terrorist Campus Infiltration is a collaboration of the different military units, namely, 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion, 10th Regional Community Defense Group, and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency region 10. Through this information awareness campaign, the Administrative Council, Faculty Members, Students, and university security forces are informed about the CPP-NPA Terrorist in continuously infiltrating university campuses targeting the youthand students to fill in their ranks and serve as future cadre and red fighters.

Manuel Orduña, Regional Director of NICA-10, discusses the importance of EO-70, institutionalizing the whole-of-nation approach and the significant role of the different government agencies in ending local communist armed conflict. Further, the Deputy Regional Director of NICA-10, Virginita J. Zamora provides situational awareness on “Why Does the Communist Terrorist Group Target the Youth and Students?”.

Meanwhile, Ka Walter, former rebel on his life testimony shared his disappointment of how he is being deceived and being recruited by the CPP-NPA Terrorist and destroyed his dreams; further, he warned the students not to be deceived like him. “Ubos raman ang akong pangandoy, ang makahuman sa akong pagskwela ug mahaw-as sa kalisod sa kinabuhi, busa sa dihang miduol sa ako ang mga teroristang NPA ug mipasalig nga paeskwelahon ko nila, deretso rapud ako miuban ug nagsalig sa ila ”, Ka Walter added.

Dr. Jesus Antonio G. Derije, University President, delivered his peace message. In his statement, he discussed that the university is willing to open opportunities for the former rebels and their children in providing quality education if they wanted; he also added that the CMU is open for partnership and entering to memorandum agreement between AFP. “Central Mindanao University is a good partner of the AFP in ending local communist armed conflict,” Dr. Derije said.

Lieutenant Colonel Christian James P Vingno, Commanding Officer of 88th Infantry “Maringal” Battalion, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Central Mindanao University for their continuous support to all the programs of this unit and for being a good partner in ending local communist armed conflict. “Military solution is not enough to fight terrorism; what we need is the whole-of-nation approach in attaining durable peace and sustainable, inclusive development,” Ltc Vingno added.

Brigadier General Ferdinand T Barandon, 403rd Brigade Commander, expressed his gratitude to the warm acceptance of the Administrative Council, Faculty Members, Students, and university security forces of Central Mindanao University. He said that the information awareness campaign is part of the effort to counter the attempts of the CPP-NPA terrorist to lure the youth. “Let us all work together to save our youth, and stop the CNTs recruitment in the school campuses targeting the students. The AFP and all of the other government agencies are responding to President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order Nr. 70 the whole-of-nation approach to end the local communist armed conflict,” BGen Barandon 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/army-units-and-nca-10-conducts-information-awareness-campaign/

Kalinaw News: High powered firearms and landmines recovered after a clash in SurSur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): High powered firearms and landmines recovered after a clash in SurSur

Madrid, Surigao del Sur – The Arm’s of 36 Infantry (Valor) Battalion and the New People’s Army clash anew in the hinterland of Sitio Togopon, Brgy Hinapoyan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur, last, April 8, 2021 at around 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon.

Acting on the report provided by the residents in the area about the presence of NPA conducting extortion activities the troops engaged the armed terrorists believed to be under Noel Alacre alias Megan of Platoon 2 Guerrilla Front 30 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

The exchange of fierce fire fight lasted for about 15 minutes that resulted to the recovery of 1 M4 rifle, 1 M653 rifle, 1 IED (4 liter), 1 rifle grenade, 1 azus smart phone, 1 amazon mini tablet, 100 meters wire, short and long magazine for M16, olive green sweatshirt with NPA markings, ammunition for AK47 and M16, back packs, assorted medicine and assorted personal belongings.

In his statement, Lieutenant Colonel Jezreel Diagmel, “The 36IB assures relentless efforts to prevent Communist-NPA Terrorist groups from spreading damage and violence to the peace loving people of Surigaonon. Together with the local government, the civil society, peace advocates and other stakeholders reiterate our call for the NPA to abandon the armed struggle, live peacefully and have a normal life together with their loved ones.” Likewise, Ltc Diagmel is appealing to the remaining NPA rebels, “May you realize that the battle you are fighting is neither for a principle nor will uplift your lives together with your family. Working together is the only way for us to end the insurgency problem of our country. Once again return to the folds of the law, embrace peaceful resolution, avail the government’s intervention programs, and avail the Enhance Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (E–CLIP).”

[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-powered-firearms-and-landmines-recovered-after-a-clash-in-sursur/

Kalinaw News: Another CTG Member throws life away for a useless cause; high powered firearm seized in the Army’s continuous pursuit Ops in CamSur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): Another CTG Member throws life away for a useless cause; high powered firearm seized in the Army’s continuous pursuit Ops in CamSur



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur-A communist NPA terrorist (CNT) was killed in another armed encounter between the government troops and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) around 5:40 in the afternoon in Lagonoy, Camarines Sur, Friday, April 9.

Elements of 96th Infantry Battalion (96IB) were conducting security operations in response to the report from a concerned citizen in Barangay Guibahoy about the presence of the CNTs in the area when the clash against five CTG members broke out.

After the fierce gun fight, CNTs left in haste leaving behind their dead comrade who is yet to be identified.

An M16 rifle was also captured from the encounter site.

According to Lt. Col. Benjamin Lonogan, Commanding Officer of 96IB, who is saddened by another loss of life, they received reports that CTG members are on frequent extortion activities which is too much for the communities to bear thus, prompting them to report to authorities.

“We thank the residents for the timely information they are feeding us and for not tolerating the lawless activities of this terrorist group. Nakakalungkot nga lang na dahil sa panlilinlang ng nga teroristang NPA ay isa na namang buhay ang nasayang pagkatapos nakawin ng CTG ang karapatan niyang mabuhay ng normal. Sana maging aral ito sa lahat ng mga miyembro ng teroristang grupo. Sayang ang panahon. May pag-asa pang mamuhay ng normal,” Lt. Col. Lonogan said.

Col. Jaime Abawag Jr, Brigade Commander of 902nd Infantry Brigade, on the other hand, reminded the public to be wary of the fleeing terrorists who will try to take shelter in the residences nearby and even coerce the residents to feed them.

“Idadamay pa nila ang mga tao gayong sila ang may kagustuhan ng ganiyang klaseng buhay. Aside from that, we are in the midst of a pandemic and everyone is in dire need,” Col. Abawag said.

It can be recalled that just last April 5, an armed skirmish also transpired in the same town where a total of 53 anti-personnel mines were seized.

Meanwhile, MGEN HENRY A ROBINSON JR PA, Commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia lauded the troops for another successful operation on the very day of the commemoration of the Day of Valor.

“There is no stopping in our quest to put behind bars the CTG members responsible for the manufacturing and stockpiling of huge anti-personnel mines we seized four days ago. Our goal of sustaining the momentum against this terrorist group, however, is a bit easier now because the local populace are working hand in hand with us. What fuels their urge to help us is the suffering the communist insurgents inflicted in their lives and in their communities. Sa mga CTG members, kung mahalaga sa inyo ang inyong buhay, magbalik-loob na lamang kayo sa pamahalaan dahil bukas-palad namin kayong tatanggapin. Ngunit kung patuloy ninyong ilalagay sa peligro ang buhay ng mga inosenteng sibilyan, lalo lamang ninyong pinaliliit ang mundong inyong ginagalawan,” MGen. Robinson 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/another-ctg-member-throws-life-away-for-a-useless-cause-high-powered-firearm-seized-in-the-armys-continuous-pursuit-ops-in-camsur/

Kalinaw News: Wounded soldiers awarded in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): Wounded soldiers awarded in Sulu

Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Jolo, Sulu – Two soldiers wounded during the encounter against Abu Sayyaf Group last Wednesday were given medals by 11th Infantry Division Commander Major General William N Gonzales at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital, Jolo, Sulu.

On the Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagitingan), April 9, 2021, two wounded soldiers of 21st Infantry Battalion who displayed bravery during April 07, 2021 encounter were awarded with the wounded personnel medal. They were Private First Class Faith Noel Andayan and Private First Class Norman Espiritu.

Andayan, 26 years old, is originally from Apayao. He was wounded at his upper right arm. Meanwhile, 27 year-old Espiritu who was wounded at his right leg is from Pangasinan. Both of them are scheduled to undergo medical operation for extraction of lodged bullet. According to their attending physician, they will have a speedy recover since they did not suffer any bone fructures.

MGen Gonzales personally pinned the medals on them as he expressed his gratitude for their unwavering courage on the performance of their mandate. “I’m sure the residents here in Sulu are also grateful for your service. Yes, you are physically wounded but your character will certainly be grow stronger.”

Meanwhile, the respective families of Andayan and Espiritu are both relieved knowing that both are safe. They are able to connect with each other through DICT initiated Free WIFI for all that recently installed at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital Jolo, Sulu.

[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/wounded-soldiers-awarded-in-sulu/

Kalinaw News: IDPs of Talipao return home after 2 decades

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 10, 2021): IDPs of Talipao return home after 2 decades

Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista, Jolo, Sulu – Yesterday, 441 internally displaced persons (IDP) of Bud Bunga, Talipao, Sulu officially returned to their homes, which they have left in 2001 due to armed conflict caused by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

Their safe return was made possible by the Balik Barangay Program (BBP)—an initiative of the local government of Sulu in partnership with the Joint Task Force – Sulu and 11th Infantry Division led by Major General Willliam N Gonzales. MGen Gonzales and Talipao Mayor Nivocadnezar Tulawie officiated the BBP today, April 8, 2021, at the newly constructed Multi-Purpose Hall at Sitio Larangan, Brgy Bud Bunga, Talipao. Other line government agencies and non-government organizations were also present, with a mission to assist the IDPs including the Provincial and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC).

According to MDRRMC Officer Alkisar Alih, the residents were left with no choice but to evacuate due to the violent attacks and threats posed by the ASG. “Before the 2000 Sipadan Kidnappings, 300 families reside in this barangay but due to ongoing conflict they were forced to leave in 2001. After that, the residents built shelters that they could temporarily use during the harvest season, but these too were also destroyed. Since 2014, this village became a no man’s land,” Mr Alih said.

Mr. Nonong Sadji Titing, 28 years old and an IDP from Brgy Bud Bunga, expressed his gratitude to the local government and military forces for ensuring their return to their homeland. “Halos 20 taon na ang nakakaraan, tanda ko pa po yung pangyayari. Ako po ay walong taong gulang, at hila-hila ko po yung bunsong kapatid ko noong kami ay nagpasyang lumikas kasama yung mga magulang ko at mga residente dito. Nagpasya kaming umalis at iwanan yung lupain namin sapagkat ayaw naming madamay sa kaguluhan. Kaya’t kami po ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa ating pamahalaan sa pangunguna ni Governor Sakur Tan at saka sa mga sundalo. Kung wala po kaming sundalo na kasama rito, hindi po kami bastang babalik. Ngayon po makakapagsimula na kami ulit sa sarili naming lupain,” he said.

“I was told that trails going to this area can barely be used as thick vegetation has taken over. I tapped our 545th Engineer Battalion to employ their grader tractor and other heavy equipment to help clear out the roads. We are here not just to secure you from peace spoilers, but also to be active partners in rehabilitating and developing Brgy Bud Bunga,” MGen Gonzales shared during his speech.

Meanwhile, 1101st Infantry Brigade Commander Col Antonio Bautista Jr. highlighted that a CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) Company will be stationed near the community to ensure their safety. Accordingly, the CAFGU to be assigned at the company who will soon undergo training are purely composed of Talipao-based civilian volunteers.

Further, the 2nd Special Forces Battalion led by Ltc Jooney Jay Businos will be directly in charge of said CAA Company, which is crucial as So Larangan is 5 kilometers into the hinterlands from the main road.

“In Patikul, we have facilitated BBPs, wherein we helped IDPs who were displaced for three to five years, return to their villages. Here in Bud Bunga, they have been away for 20 years. Those long years must have been traumatic for them that is why we are doing our best to assist these residents so they can rebuild their lives. In line with this, we are on the final straw with our fight against terrorism in the province of Sulu. The ASG’s strength is continuously dwindling, they will soon be irrelevant, and all of us can finally focus on building a brighter future for our families,” MGen Gonzales emphasized.

To note, the government of Sulu has been implementing the BBP since 2019. Aside from the BBPs accomplishment in Bud Bunga, Talipao, the program was also able to lead back IDPs from six barangays in Patikul to their respective lands.

[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/idps-of-talipao-return-home-after-2-decades/

Kalinaw News: 23IB strengthens ties with IPs, leaders in Gingoog village through ritual

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 9, 2021): 23IB strengthens ties with IPs, leaders in Gingoog village through ritual

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – An Indigenous People (IP) ritual was joined by the troopers of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) in a village in Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental.

Dubbed as “Dumalongdong daw Talabugta”, the IP ritual was conducted on March 6, 2021, in Sitio Bagasbas, Barangay Sangalan, Gingoog City which carried the theme: “Dumalongdong ko Nangalasan ha Ininay/Inamay ta Baliguihan Saindadawat ko Nanaglasan ko Pinaglaw ha Lagimo Dangal ha Tinayongan hi Apo Pinaglaw, Apo Pinalibong daw Apo Pinaduyan.”

The activity was a Higaonon rite that was also participated by the Indigenous People Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) of Misamis Oriental and Agusan del Norte together with representatives from the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) and the local government unit (LGU) of Gingoog.

The ritual was a thanksgiving for abundance as the leaders of the Higaonon tribe implored for supervision as they continue to lead their communities. The activity also allowed the young generation of Higaonon to internalize the value of their customs and traditions and to ensure its continuity to the next generation.

Through the activity, the partnership between the 23IB, the LGU, and the IP leaders was also strengthened with the commitment to continue to support each other in the different peace and development initiatives.

The oldest IP leader in Barangay Sangalan, Datu Hulukoman Eladio S. Lutao was present during the ritual. The leader is a known protector of the community for years and he urged his fellow IP leaders to build up their efforts to ensure the security and safety of Sangalan and the rest of their ancestral domain from the threats of terrorist groups, such as the New People’s Army (NPA).

“Dili sayon ang responsibilidad nga gisangon kanato isip mga tribal leaders apan kita ang gipili niana tungod kay aduna kitay kapasidad nga mag gunit sa maong katungdanan. Magtinabangay kita aron panalipdan ang atong tribu ug ang atong yutang kabilin aron mapahimuslan pa kini sa umaabot nga henerasyon. Ang atong pagka lider maghatag kanato ug dungog ug aduna kini kauban nga mga hagit nga atong paga atubangon, apan mabuntog nato kini kung kita mag maisugon ug mag tinabangay,” Datu Hulukoman said.

During the activity, Gingoog City Mayor Erick G. Cañosa introduced the plans and programs of the city government for Barangay Sangalan, including the priority services for the youths and students in the area.

“The city government of Gingoog already implemented programs and services especially for the youth and the students in order for them to continue learning and be employed by time. Even in this time of the pandemic, we will still find ways to give education a value so that our IP youth will have the chance to learn. We also offered free skills training so that the graduates will have a bigger opportunity to improve their livelihood. Aside from that, we offer a free dormitory so that every youth will be educated and will have easy access to education, because education is the greatest asset we can have to change our lives positively,” Mayor Cañosa said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Commanding Officer of 23IB, thanked the barangay council and the IP leaders of Sangalan for helping the government in maintaining peace and order in the area.

“We are glad that the IP leaders and the members of the barangay council of Sangalan are active in protecting their community to maintain peace and order,” Paulo said.

He emphasized that the neighboring barangays of Sangalan continue to suffer from the exploitation and other terroristic activities of the NPAs.

“Developments in communities slow down due to the presence of these terrorist NPAs. Unlike in other areas, we can clearly witness the developments that continue to unfold in Barangay Sangalan through the unity of its leaders. No recorded atrocities, no extortions, and recruitment of the youth took place in this barangay because you are protecting each other from these terrorists,” Paulo said.

He urged the leaders of Sangalan to continue their cause and advocacies for peace and development.

“We, the soldiers of 23IB is only one call away. You can tap us whenever you need our assistance especially when it comes to security-related problems,” 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/23ib-strengthens-ties-with-ips-leaders-in-gingoog-village-thru-ritual/

Kalinaw News: Dating NPA na sangkot sa illlegal na droga patay, matataas na kalibre ng baril nasamsam

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 9, 2021): Dating NPA na sangkot sa illlegal na droga patay, matataas na kalibre ng baril nasamsam



Camp Jorge Downes, Ormoc City – Abril 8, 2021, ika-5:50 ng umaga, sa pangunguna ng pwersa ng kapulisan na binubuo ng Philippine National Police Regional Special Operations Group-8 (PNP RSOG-8) at Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-8 (PDEA-8) at sinuportahan ng inyong kasundaluhan mula sa 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade at 93rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Battalion ay tumugon sa impormasyon at naglunsad ng isang operasyon sa Sitio Mahayahay, Brgy Anislagan, Calubian, Leyte upang ihain ang Warrant of Arrest kay Marlon S. Mendoza sa kasong Frustrated Murder (Criminal Case Nr. CV-19-914).

Si Mendoza ay kabilang sa mga notoryus na tauhan ni Nicolas P. Ibañez alyas Botoy, isang dating NPA na napabalitang bumuo ng grupo na sangkot sa gun-for-hire at paggamit at pagtutulak ng iligal na droga. Ang pinuno nilang si alyas Botoy ay may direktang kaugnayan kay Juanito Silleza Jr. alyas Tibor na isang lider at kumander ng teroristang CPP-NPA na kumikilos sa probinsiya ng Leyte. Samantalang si Mendoza naman ay kasapi ng kanilang grupo na kasalukuyang nagtatago sa batas dahil sa kasong kanyang kinakaharap.

Unang pinaputukan ng grupo nina Ibañez at Mendoza ang pwersa ng pamahalaan na siyang dahilan upang sumiklab ang limang minutong palitan ng putok. Matapos ang putukan, natagpuan ang walang buhay na katawan ng isang lalaki na sa kalaunan ay nakilalang si Nicolas P. Ibañez alyas Botoy, samantalang nakatakas naman si Mendoza kasama ang iba pang miyembro ng kanilang grupo. Nasamsam sa lugar ang mga sumusunod- isang pakete ng pinaghihinalaang Shabu; isang (1) Caliber .45 Pistol; isang (1) AK-47 Rifle; isang (1) M16 Rifle; isang (1) M653 Rifle (Baby Armalite); at sari-saring magasin at mga bala.

Samantala, wala namang nasaktan sa panig ng pamahalaan. Ayon kay Brigadier General Zosimo A. Oliveros, Commander ng 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, “Ang pangyayaring ito ay nagpapatunay na ang mga teroristang CPP-NPA-NDF ay may kaugnayan sa mga kriminal na naghahatid ng takot sa mamamayan at sindikato ng droga na sumisira sa kinabukasan ng ating mga kabataan. Ito ay isang indikasyon na ang grupong CPP-NPA-NDF ay naghihirap na sa kanayunan sa kadahilanang wala na ang suporta galing sa mga mamamayan. Ang kanilang pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga grupong kriminal ay isang pamamaraan upang matugunan ang kanilang mga pangangailangan at maipagpatuloy ang gawaing naglalayong sirain ang ating pamahalaan”.

Dagdag pa ni Brigadier General Oliveros, “Ang pagtutulungan ng kapulisan at kasundaluhan ay napakahalaga sa pagganap ng tungkuling protektahan ang ating mga kababayan sa anumang grupong nagbabanta sa kanilang seguridad at kaligtasan. Ako’y nagpapasalamat sa ating mga kababayang nagmamalasakit at nagbigay ng napapanahong impormasyon na naging susi sa tagumpay ng ating operasyon. Ang 802nd Infantry Brigade ay nananatiling katuwang ng ating mga alagad ng batas na siyang pangunahing nagpapatupad sa kampanya hinggil sa pagsugpo sa paglaganap ng ipinagbabawal na gamot at iba pang uri ng krimen. Ang suporta ng mga mamamayan ay malaking tulong sa pagpapanatili ng katahimikan, kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa mga probinsyang ating nasasakupan sa Leyte, Southern Leyte at Biliran.

[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/dating-npa-na-sangkot-sa-illlegal-na-droga-patay-matataas-na-kalibre-ng-baril-nasamsam/

Kalinaw News: NCIP Leader reaches out to fellow IP’s in AgNor

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 9, 2021): NCIP Leader reaches out to fellow IP’s in AgNor



KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte- On Wednesday, April 7, 2021, the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Regional Director Atty. Marlon Bosantog in partnership with the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion visited Monte de Oro Elementary School, So. Casagayan, Santiago to distribute food, boots, goods, bags and medicine to its Indigenous People (IP) residents particulary to the children of the said sitio.

Located in Brgy. Pangaylan, Santiago, Agusan del Norte, So. Casagayan is so steepy, rocky and is a two-hour ride from the main road of Brgy. Pangaylan. Also, back in the days, the said sitio is considered one of the critical areas where Communist Terrorist Groups roamed for long time. Despite how difficult and challenging the travel is, the NCIP leader crossed over rivers and brought guts to reach the place.

According to Ms. Jessa Mae Bando, Chief of Staff from the Office of the NCIP Regional Director, “We chose So. Casagayan as the beneficiary because most of its residents and particularly the students of Monte de Oro Elem. School have a majority of IPs.We are giving these gifts under the program, Handog sa mga Estudyanteng Tribu, to cater the basic needs of the students and their parents.”

According to Mr. Eddie Jusay, Former Sector Leader, “Kaniadto mga Maam ug Sir, naa gyud diri mga taga pikas pero inig naa mi makita ireport man dayon namo sa kasundaluhan dayon birahan namo. Mangisog gyud mi alang-alang sa among lugar mao nga nagapasalamat gayud kami diri kay ania mo bisan layo kaayo ug lisod kaayo ang dalan” (Back in the days, Maam and Sir, there are leftist groups who are nesting here but if we got the chance to see them we immediately report them to the military and we will take care of it. We show our bravery because this is our place and we are extending our utmost gratitude because you are here even if it is too far and the road is too difficult,”

According to Lt.Col. Aristotle F Antonio, Acting Commanding Officer of 29IB, “We want to help, we want to make you realize the effort of our government. You are the heritage of our nation. You hold the bloodline of the original Filipino’s that was never blended with any foreign blood. We want to help you, to have a secure and safe surroundings away from exploitation and influence of the CTGs. These blessings will come one after the other if you will help us in fighting these terrorist groups.”

“To our youth, you are the next generation, perhaps you won’t be able to understand me now, but to the parents of these kids,please, help your children and protect them because they are the hope of our nation,” Antonio added.

[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/ncip-leader-reaches-out-to-fellow-ips-in-agnor/