Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Facebook Page (May 2, 2021): Filipinos overseas: part of the progressive and revolutionary forces fighting for liberation and democracy
Compatriots Message to the NDFP 48th anniversary
Compatriots, the revolutionary organization of overseas Filipinos, sends our warmest and most militant greetings to the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on the occasion of its 48th anniversary.
As one of the newest members of the NDFP, we are proud to be part of the biggest and most consolidated united front of the exploited and oppressed Filipino people fighting to overthrow the semicolonial and semifeudal system and build a society that is truly free, genuinely democratic, progressive, peaceful and just.
Through the years, the people have seen the growth of the NDFP.
Revolutionary organizations of various sectors have sprung up since the dark years of martial law and all throughout the successive regimes, proving the deep and wide sentiment of the Filipino people for revolutionary changes.
We give the highest tribute and salute to recent fallen comrades who were members of the NDFP peace negotiating panel, especially comrade Fidel Agcaoili whose contributions to the development of the revolutionary movement of overseas Filipinos were felt and experienced by many of us in the Compatriots.
The revolutionary tradition of overseas Filipinos is long. From the anti-colonial struggle up to the present, Filipinos overseas have been part of the progressive and revolutionary forces fighting for liberation and democracy.
The aspirations of overseas Filipinos resonate in the national democratic revolution with a socialist perspective that the people are waging.
Even before the NDFP was established in 1973, work among overseas Filipinos was already initiated by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) alongside the performance of its international work.
Though it took a few decades before the Compatriots was established, underground work among overseas Filipinos was already thriving in many countries.
Revolutionary Filipinos overseas have continuously given political and material contributions towards the advancement of our people’s struggle especially for the armed struggle waged in the countryside.
The establishment of Compatriots was most significant as it signaled the united will of revolutionary Filipinos outside the country to participate in bringing the national democratic revolution with a socialist perspective to victory.
Presently, Filipinos in the Philippines and abroad are facing one of the most brutal, traitorous and anti-people regimes in our history.
But our fighting will continues to grow and strengthen as each attack fortifies our determination to see an end to the current system that kills, exploits and oppresses the majority.
In this glorious struggle, the Compatriots will always be with the NDFP and the Filipino people.
Dare to struggle, dare to win! Long live the NDFP!
Ka Victoria Del Mundo
Spokesperson, Compatriots-NDFP
April 24, 2021
https://ndfp.org/filipinos-overseas-part-of-the-progressive-and-revolutionary-forces-fighting-for-liberation-and-democracy/
Saturday, May 1, 2021
NDF-Compatriots: Filipinos overseas: part of the progressive and revolutionary forces fighting for liberation and democracy
NDF-PIIO: Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle/ Friends of the NDFP declare their solidarity for the victory of the Philippine revolutionary struggle
Posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Facebook Page (May 2, 2021): Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle/ Friends of the NDFP declare their solidarity for the victory of the Philippine revolutionary struggle
Amidst the vicious counterrevolutionary attacks of the fascist US-Duterte regime against the armed revolutionary movement of the Filipino people and the progressive legal democratic movement, foreign friends of the Filipino people dauntlessly held the red banner of international solidarity, declaring support to the Filipino people’s movement for national and social liberation and their comprehensive struggle against imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism.
The Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle/Friends of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (FFPS/FNDFP) held their first General Assembly last April 24. The day marked the 48th founding anniversary of the NDFP, the revolutionary alliance of 18 underground sectoral organizations which include the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the New People’s Army (NPA). The FFPS/Friends of the NDFP was founded three years ago during the 45th anniversary celebration of the NDFP in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The FFPS/FNDFP declared during their founding assembly to “organize ourselves into a solidarity movement to defend the Filipino people and their right to pursue their strategic aspirations for national liberation”. They vowed to join the Filipino people in advancing and achieving the realization of the NDFP’s 12-point Program, and the victory of the Philippine revolutionary struggle.
“We are united in the belief that the Filipino people as a sovereign people have the right to struggle against US domination and struggle for genuine social change and against oppressive rule”, they proclaimed.
“As Friends, we commit to support the mass movement of all the oppressed peoples of the Philippines in their aspiration to: build a true people’s democratic government; promote and uphold the social welfare of the oppressed classes through programs for genuine agrarian reform, livelihood development, literacy & education, nutrition, sanitation & health; and to defend their movement and aspirations on all fronts from any attacks,” they further affirmed.
During their founding assembly, the FFPS/Friends of the NDFP finalized and approved their “Manifesto of Unity”, their General Program of Action (GPOA), formed the Coordinating Committee and elected its Chairperson. Their membership includes organizations which come from the US, Canada, Oceania, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East. Robert Reid, a trade union leader from New Zealand and longtime supporter of the Filipino people and the NDFP was elected Chairperson of the FFPS/Friends of the NDFP.
“We will amplify the goals of the NDFP in our home countries and expand its international base of support. As Friends of the Filipino People in Strugglewe are committed to continuing the long history of international solidarity with the Filipino people and their struggle for national and social liberation. Together towards a free Philippines and a free world!” triumphantly declared Robert Reid.
In a message for the 48th anniversary celebration of the NDFP which followed the FFPS/FNDFP establishment, NDFP chief political consultant Prof. Jose Ma. Sison said: “The NDFP’s most important role in the democratic revolution is to arouse, organize and mobilize the broad masses of Filipino people in their tens of millions and to seek international solidarity, support and cooperation. For the purpose, it encompasses 18 allied organizations representing all patriotic and progressive classes and sectors of Philippine society belonging to various political tendencies, ethno-linguistic communities and religious beliefs.
The allied organizations include the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions, Katipunan ng mga Samahang Manggagawa, Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid, Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan, Kabataang Makabayan, Katipunan ng Gurong Makabayan, Makabayang Samahang Pangkalusugan, Liga ng Agham para sa Bayan, Lupon ng Manananggol para sa Bayan, Artista at Manunulat para sa Sambayanan, Makabayang Kawaning Pilipino, Revolutionary Organization of Overseas Filipinos and their Families, Christians for National Liberation, Cordillera People’s Democratic Front, Moro Resistance and Liberation Organization, and Revolutionary Organization of Lumad.
The NDFP has been successful at promoting and building the revolutionary organs of political power at the grassroots and higher levels, expanding and consolidating all its allied organizations, broadening the national united front against every unjust regime, carrying out diplomatic and solidarity relations and raising resources for the advance of the people’s democratic revolution,” Professor Sison stressed.
The following are among the major campaigns the FFPS/FNDFP will undertake: reach out to and gather other solidarity organizations and individuals to support the aspirations of the Filipino people; campaign for the prosecution and conviction of Rodrigo Duterte and his cohorts in the International Criminal Court, other tribunals and in the US Congress, European Parliament and other national parliaments and fora; and, campaign to delist the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the New People’s Army (NPA) in the USA, EU and others and to delist Prof. Jose Ma. Sison from the terrorist listings in the USA, Australia and New Zealand.
The founding and general assembly of the FFPS/FNDFP follow the long history of warm support and solidarity that the NDFP has been winning through its revolutionary struggle in the Philippines and solidarity work overseas since its founding and the struggle against the Marcos fascist dictatorship.
It should be recalled that in 1980 in Antwerp, Belgium, the prestigious Permanent People’s Tribunal (started by prominent Nobel Peace Prize winners) in a session on the Philippines, convicted the Marcos fascist regime of crimes against humanity, bestowed on the NDFP a “status of belligerency” recognizing it as the genuine representative of the Filipino people.
This was followed by a second and third sessions of the PPT which also convicted the criminal Arroyo and (George) Bush regimes, and the genocidal Duterte regime, respectively, for crimes against the Filipino people.
The international solidarity work of the NDFP expanded worldwide and achieved many political victories for the revolutionary struggle in the Philippines, namely, in developing and advancing the socio-economic work of the CPP and NPA and the people’s democratic government in many guerrilla fronts. It has also drawn many prominent international personalities to the struggle of the Filipino people on human rights, the environment, democratic rights, social and economic equality and genuine peace.
Solidarity activists who have worked among the poorest and oppressed in the Philippines and with the resistance movement, upon their return to their respective countries, organized countless solidarity groups and formations for the Philippine struggle.
When the NDFP international representatives led by its Chief International Representative Luis Jalandoni, took root in Europe, the NDFP earned and continues to gather endless support, big and small, political and material, from freedom and democracy-loving citizens all over.
Just how far has the international solidarity movement has amplified the just struggle of the NDFP and the Filipino people can be manifested in the support that the thorny path of the peace negotiations between the NDFP and the Government of the Philippines (GRP) has gathered, as it resonated the basic aspirations of the Filipino people for national freedom, democracy, genuine socio-economic development, social justice and long-lasting peace. (NDFPIIO Media Group)
https://ndfp.org/friends-of-the-filipino-people-in-struggle-friends-of-the-ndfp-declare-their-solidarity-for-the-victory-of-the-philippine-revolutionary-struggle/
CPP: Strengthen the workers’ movement and lead the struggles for democracy and freedom
Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 1, 2021): Strengthen the workers’ movement and lead the struggles for democracy and freedom
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINESMAY 01, 2021
Read in: Pilipino | Bisaya
The Communist Party of the Philippines, the party of the Filipino proletarian class, firmly salutes the working class across the world and Filipino workers this May One. We mark today the International Workers’ Day amid intense monopoly capitalist crisis around the world and intensifying oppression and exploitation of workers and the toiling masses. Let us strengthen our determination to advance the struggle to overthrow imperialism and carry forward socialist revolution to forge a new society.
Let us draw inspiration from the great victories of the Paris Commune 150 years ago, world history’s first victory of the working class in overthrowing the reactionary state of the bourgeoisie, establishing working class political power and democratic self-rule. The lessons of the Commune in waging socialist revolution and establishing a new society remain a beacon for the Philippine working class.
The current situation demands that the Filipino working class vigorously advance the people’s struggle for democracy and national freedom. Because of the intense socioeconomic difficulties and political crisis of the ruling system, the rotten core of the semicolonial and semifeudal system is further exposed, and underscores the necessity of waging revolutionary change to put an end to the hardships and oppression of the people.
The Covid-19 pandemic continues to rage as more and more Filipinos are becoming infected and denied of appropriate medical attention because of the failed response of the Duterte regime to the public health crisis. It has neglected the people’s welfare and scrimped funds for free mass testing and treatment, for effective contact tracing, strengthening public hospitals and laboratories, research and other essential measures for fighting the pandemic. Workers are among the most vulnerable to the pandemic, both in the factories and places of work that are not sufficiently safe, as well as in their congested communities.
While the pandemic causes grave damage and people are made to do with nothing, Duterte satiates his own family and minions with public funds. He has raised the budget for the military and police to buy the loyalty of generals and top officers, and use the AFP and PNP in his relentless campaign of suppression and crackdown against people who are raising their voices amid the widespread crisis and impoverishment.
The economic crisis the besets the people is unprecedented. Almost 11 million are without work and lost jobs. Workers’ wages are extremely low. State aid is slow and insufficient, especially in the face of rising prices of commodities. The Duterte regime is causing people to beg, go hungry and line up in long queues for food aid. The economic crisis was caused by the US-Duterte regime which has refused to increase wages, relies on borrowing, promotes corruption and squanders funds on the police and military. Amid the pandemic, it has railroaded the CREATE law that favors tax-cuts on big corporations, further liberalized importation of pork that further imperils local agriculture, and issued EO 130 that will pave the way for relentless plunder of the country’s mineral resources by Chinese and other foreign companies.
The crisis is dealing heavier blows against workers. Oppression and exploitation is intensified in the form of lower wages, contractualization and lack of protection in workplaces amid the pandemic. Attacks against organized labor are also worsening including attempts to disunite workers, surveillance on union organizing in enclaves, killing of their leaders and threats against their members.
These are part of the state armed forces’ relentless attacks against democratic people’s organizations under the guise of “counterinsurgency.” As the end of Duterte’s official term draws near, cases of killings, illegal arrests and red-tagging pile up. Wielding the Anti-Terror Law, the regime aims to silence anyone opposing his fascist reign, and pave the way to impose a fascist dictatorship or manipulate the 2022 elections to perpetuate in power his political dynasty.
Duterte mortally fears the people’s retribution for his national treachery, the rapid erosion of Philippine sovereignty due to his servility to China and for permitting to plunder of wide seas covered by the Philippine exclusive economic zone. Duterte crumpled and set aside the decision of the International Arbitral Tribunal which recognized the rights of the Philippines under the United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Seas (UNCLOS). In exchange for China’s promised loans and benefiting from his ties with Chinese drug syndicates, Duterte allowed China to loot Philippine marine resources at the expense of Filipino fishermen and the people.
The Filipino working class must stand at the forefront of the people’s democratic struggles, and serve as the most solid core of the mass movement to end the tyrannical reign of the US-Duterte fascist regime.
It must continue to build, expand and strengthen workers’ unions and associations and advance the militant workers’ movement. Workers must strengthen their unions to resolutely fight the onslaught of the fascist police and military against their ranks, and to effectively advance the workers’ outstanding demands for wage increase and job security. There is urgency in the demand for ₱100 emergency wage increase in the face of the rapid decrease of the value of peso and increasing prices of commodities. Let the flames of workers’ struggles engulf factories and entire enclaves across the country.
At the same time, Filipino workers must continuously strengthen their unity with democratic sectors in both the cities and countryside. They must support the democratic demands and struggles of the Filipino masses. They must continuously support the clamor of health workers for salary increases, hazard pay and greater subsidy for health services. They must also strengthen their support for peasants’ demand for land, lower rent, abolishing usury and other forms of exploitation in the countryside. At the same time, the demand of children and youth to safely reopen schools, increase teachers’ salary and additional state subsidy on education. The workers’ movement must also strongly oppose the government’s unending foreign-borrowing, and oppose the huge budget allocation for satiating the military and police.
Workers’ determination must be steeled by raising their class and political consciousness to fight for the Filipino people’s national and democratic aspirations. A widespread cultural and educational movement must be carried out to invigorate patriotism. Study Philippine history and the continuing struggle of the Filipino people for national liberation from the clutches of imperialism and its lackeys in the puppet state. Conduct widespread education on the situation of Philippine society and the need for a national democratic revolution.
Further deepen the roots of the Communist Party of the Philippines among workers. Continue the mass recruitment of workers for them to serve as proletarian cadres at the forefront and backbone of the class struggle of workers. Activists and cadres among workers must be resolutely recruited to the New People’s Army to serve as its Red fighters and commanders.
The democratic and anti-imperialist struggles being carried forward by Filipino workers are part of the rising global anti-imperialist and democratic movement. These indicate the decaying global capitalist system and its resulting sharp economic crisis, fascism, racism and other forms of oppression and attacks against workers and oppressed masses. It is the task of the revolutionary proletariat to rise up, arouse, lead and bring the broad movements towards the revolutionary path of class struggle.
Across the world, conditions are ripe to strengthen communist parties and lead the widespread struggles and bring the global socialist revolution unto the eve of a new resurgence.
Long live the working class and oppressed masses of the world!
Long live the Filipino working class!
Long live the Communist Party of the Philippines!
Advance the national democratic revolution!
https://cpp.ph/statements/strengthen-the-workers-movement-and-lead-the-struggles-for-democracy-and-freedom/
Kalinaw News: Military celebrates Labor Day in the southernmost part of the Philippines
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 2, 2021): Military celebrates Labor Day in the southernmost part of the Philippines
Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – Western Mindanao Command Chief Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan, Jr. together with other military officials commemorated Labor Day in Tawi-Tawi, May 2, 2021
Following their arrival in Tawi-Tawi on April 30 (Friday), Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. joined the troops of the 2nd Marine Brigade during the distribution of food packs at the Central Mosque in Sanga-Sanga, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
“In partnership with the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi, we distributed a total of 750 food packs prepared by the local government of Tawi-Tawi and marine troops of 2nd Marine Brigade for our Muslim brothers and sisters who are fulfilling their obligation to fast during the holy month of Ramadan,” said Lt. Gen, Vinluan, Jr.
The West Mindanao Commamnd Commander also took time to pay a courtesy call on the governor of Tawi-Tawi, Hon. Yshmael Sali still at the Central Mosque.
During their conversation, Governor Sali commended the sterling leadership of JTF Tawi-Tawi/2nd Marine Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas and the resolve of the marine troopers to sustain the peace in Tawi-Tawi.
Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. express his gratitude to the provincial and local government officials of Tawi-Tawi for their unwavering support to the military’s thrusts.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. graced the inauguration of the newly established Jade’s Bajau Learning Center, Inc. (JBLCI) in Panguan Island, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi on May 1.
The said learning center is initiated by a non-profit organization, in partnership with the 2nd Marine Brigade, which aims to deliver quality equitable culture-based basic education that is rightfully available for all to lay the groundwork for lifelong learning and service for the common good. It was established on the island barangay in April 2021.
According to Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi/2nd Marine Brigade Commander Brigadier General Arturo Rojas, with the help of the 2nd Marine Brigade troopers, the first JBLCI was established in Barangay Lamion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi in 2015.
“Through the strengthened collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, we were able to facilitate the expansion of the learning center to this island municipality,” said Brigadier General Rojas.
During his message, Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. said, “I am personally happy because the children here will now have a more conducive area for education. Rest assured that we will always keep the area safe and secured.”
“To the parents, encourage your children to study for them to have a brighter future,” the commander added.
The ribbon-cutting was spearheaded by Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. together with the founders of JBLCI Administrators Mr. Eleazar Erana and Mrs. Ma. Leonor Blanco-Erana.
Mr. Erana, in her statement, said that “the men and women in uniform have been their partners in the humanitarian services since 2010”.
“When we were conducting humanitarian activities in the province, we saw that the province also needs educational aid so together with the marines and our other partners and donors we established the first school building in Lamion. To the people of Sitangkai, this school is for you. We want to help the youth here to at least finish high school. Do utilize this for the common good,” Mr. Erana added.
After the inauguration, Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. met with the local government officials of Sitangkai led by Mayor Hji. Tiblan Ahaja. They discussed the best practices that led to the sustainability of peace in the island municipality.
Sitangkai is known as the “Venice of the Philippines” due to the use of boats as primary transportation.
The West Mindanao Command Commander also paid a courtesy call on Sibutu Mayor Alshefa Pajiji.
The islands of the municipalities of Sitangkai and Sibutu had been at the crossroads of the sea trade route and were a traditional enclave of the Bajau and Sama people.
During his visit to Tawi-Tawi, Lieutenant General Vinluan, Jr. was accompanied by Philippine Marine Corps Commandant Major General Ariel Caculitan, JTF Tawi-Tawi Commander Brigadier General Arturo Rojas, West Mindanao Command Deputy Commander for Admin Brigadier General Antonio Nafarrete, and the West Mindanao Command Staff.
[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/military-celebrates-labor-day-in-the-southernmost-part-of-the-philippines/
Kalinaw News: Former Rebel availed Full- Financial Assistance from the Local Government for the hospital bills of his wife and newborn baby
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 1, 2021): Former Rebel availed Full- Financial Assistance from the Local Government for the hospital bills of his wife and newborn baby
MARAMAG, Bukidnon- On April 13, 2021, a 16-year-old former rebel’s wife, Ms. Daylena Kabantao is rushed and admitted to Maramag Provincial Hospital, as she was to deliver her child. A thorough examination was conducted, which was later found out that she has severe Eclampsia (a condition in which one or more convulsions occur in pregnant women suffering from high blood pressure). The attending physician advised the patient that she needs to deliver the baby in cesarean section, in another hospital because they don’t have the facility and equipment for said operation. Moreover, 88IB made coordination to Valencia Polymedic General Hospital Inc. however, the private hospital requires an initial cash deposit as part of hospital protocol, furthermore, 88IB made coordination to the good mayor Hon. Azucena Huervas, of Valencia City, guaranteed the initial cash deposit without hesitation.
Ms. Kabantao was admitted and the baby is safely delivered, however, the baby has Neonatal sepsis (a blood infection that occurs in an infant younger than 90 days old) that’s the mother and child needs to stay longer in the hospital, the increasing hospital bill needs to be addressed. But with the helping hands of different government units and the true spirit of a “whole-of-government” approach, the mother’s hospital bill was settled thru the office of Congressman 3rd District, Hon. Manuel F Zubiri and the patient was discharged from the hospital last April 23, 2021. The good Mayor of Maramag, Hon. Jose P. Doromal also gives financial assistance for the family’s other expenses including Baby’s hospital bill is settled thru the office of the good Provincial Governor Hon. Jose Maria R. Zubiri Jr. The whole family finally got home on April 28, 2021.
Cain Anda is one (1) of the five (5) minors rescued by the Philippine Army in the province of Abra, Cordillera Administrative Region in Luzon way back in 2018, he was only 17 years old at that time and an IP of tigwahanon tribes in San Fernando Bukidnon and he was exploited by the NPA, by giving false promises that they will help them to have a decent job in Luzon but later they became regular NPA members in Abra, Cordillera Administrative Region in Luzon.
Finally, Lieutenant Colonel. Christian James P Vingno, Commanding Officer of 88th Infantry Battalion, expressed his gratitude to all the partner government units who extend their helping hands to the former rebel and his family. This is the whole-of-nation approach, we are your true government and willing to give hope even you are former combatants, we are encouraging those rebels who are still in the mountains to come and return to the folds of the law, we knew that you are only being deceived by wrong ideology we are here to help you.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]
https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-rebel-availed-full-financial-assistance-from-the-lgus-for-the-hospital-bills-of-his-wife-and-newborn-baby/
Kalinaw News: Barangay Sagundangon declares “Independence Day” against CPP-NPA-NDF
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 1, 2021): Barangay Sagundangon declares “Independence Day” against CPP-NPA-NDF
MAGPET, COTABATO – Barangay Sagundangon is known as one of the NPA’s affected Barangays in the Municipality of Kitaotao, Bukidnon. After years of suffering behind the shadow of the false beliefs, promises, and wrongdoings of the NPA, Barangay Sagundangon finally freed themselves, declared their “Independence Day”, withdrew and denounced their support as their barangay facilitated and conducted a Peace Dialogue together with their Barangay Officials, Former Rebels, Municipal Police Station (MPS) Kitaotao and Army’s 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion and Subsequently Reading of Barangay Resolution declaring “Persona Non-Grata” to CPP-NPA-NDF, on May 01, 2021.
Today marks a new beginning to the residents of Brgy Sagundangon as they finally dared to live in peace rather than in fear, to live peacefully with their families rather than with their comrades, and to embrace the programs and projects of the Government intended for them rather than supporting and sympathizing the violence of NPA. It was steered thru series of dialogues about the wrongdoings of the CPP-NPA-NDF, NPA’s recruitment, the role of the Army and PNP as peacebuilders of our nation and the sincerity of the Government in the implementation of Executive Order no.70 and in ending the insurgency in our country.
The activity was graced by the presence of Hon. Geofrey C Gawilan, Barangay Captain; Police Lieutenant Nilo C Maderse, Deputy COP, Kitaotao; Lieutenant Colonel Jose C Regonay Jr, Commanding Officer 72IB; NTF-ELCAC Focal Person; Brgy Officials; and Officers and Troops of 72IB and PNP.
“As we declare Persona Non-Grata to CPP-NPA-NDF today, we also declare Independence Day here in our barangay. Slowly, we will start our lives with new hope that we will begin living a life far away from the shadow of the Communist Terrorist Groups. Let us start the peace we want here in our barangay. The peace that we are longing for so long.” Hon. Geofrey C Gawilan said in his message.
Lieutenant Colonel Jose C Regonay Jr, Commanding Officer 72IB called on the remaining members of the NPA to embrace the programs of the Government intended for them. He called on the families of the remaining members to convince their loved ones to surrender and return to the folds of the real Government. He assured that the unit will continue reaching out to different barangays in Kitaotao to announce and disseminate the Government’s projects and programs for the people of Bukidnon.
[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/barangay-sagundangon-declares-independence-day-against-cpp-npa-ndf/
Kalinaw News: 10th Infantry Division stops extortion in Bukidnon, Recovers three firearms
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 1, 2021): 10th Infantry Division stops extortion in Bukidnon, Recovers three firearms
MAWAB, Davao de Oro – Troops of the 3rd Infantry Battalion engaged in a 15-minute firefight against more or less eight individuals believed to be members of Platun Bagsik, Guerilla Front Malayag, North Central Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NCEMRC) under Dante Cuyos at around 4:15PM in Sitio Liptong, Brgy. Lumintao, Quezon in Bukidnon on Thursday, April 29, 2021.
The firefight ensued after the troops of 3rd Infantry Battalion validated a report of a concerned citizen regarding the presence of rebels in their area conducting extortion activities which resulted to the recovery of the following; one (1) caliber 223 bushmaster, one (1) M16 rifle, and one (1) sniper rifle, all firearms are with serial numbers, one (1) improvised hand grenade, medical paraphernalia, bandolier, seven (7) M203 ammunition, and subversive documents.
Meanwhile, there were no reported casualties on the side of the government, and with undetermined fatalities on the enemy’s side wherein the group were reported withdrawing towards a nearby Barangay also in Quezon, Bukidnon.
Moreover, all patrol bases in Bukidnon under 10th Infantry Division are on high alert on possible sightings while the engaged troops are currently on a pursuit operation against withdrawing enemies.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Juvenal Mark T Tayamen, Commanding Officer, 3rd Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, the timely and accurate information of the populace who were tired of exploitation and extortion from the New People’s Army terrorists in the area helped the troops to dislodge and prevent them from conducting terroristic activities in the community.
Brigadier General Nolasco A Mempin, Brigade Commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, 10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army on the other hand expressed his sincere appreciation to the ROW Troopers for successfully preventing the NPA terrorists from conducting hostilities and terroristic activities in the community.
10th Infantry Division Commander Major General Ernesto C Torres Jr likewise commends the troops in performing their duties with utmost bravery and dedication in protecting vulnerable communities in their area of operation.
“I urged the people to continue to exercise the culture of security in reporting to authorities suspicious individuals lurking in their communities as our Agila Troopers remain committed to protect the peace and order that the 10th Infantry Division has helped establish for the past years. And I, together with the whole command commend the troops of 3rd Infantry Battalion for a job well done.” Major General Torres 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/10th-infantry-division-stops-extortion-in-bukidnon-recovers-three-firearms/
Kalinaw News: 15 Former New People’s Army Allies in Iloilo City vows to support government
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 1, 2021): 15 Former New People’s Army Allies in Iloilo City vows to support government
CAMP HERNANDEZ, Dingle, Iloilo – 15 former members from allied groups of the New People’s Army of Barangay South Fundidor, Molo, Iloilo City took their oath of allegiance to the government on Thursday, April 29, 2021.
These individuals were members of Padrias Parian Drivers Association (PPDA) and Comfuda Companya Fundidor Drivers Association (CCFDA) Transport sector under Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) headed by Noel Garcia, chairman of CCFDA and Arman Zandry Elangos, chairman of PPDA.
The Oath of Allegiance is one of the highlights of the Multi-Sectoral Meeting facilitated by the Community Support Program (CSP) Team of the 33rd Civil-Military Operation Company headed by Captain Ivy Arcangeles.
It was done in collaboration with the Iloilo City Police Office Community Relations headed by Police Lieutenant Marlon Perez, SAMBAYANAN Metro Iloilo Chapter headed by Rey Cachuela, chairman of Hugpong Obrero, and South Fundidor Barangay Council headed by Barangay Chairman Hon. Jonathan Altura.
Brigadier General Marion Sison, Commander, 301st Infantry Brigade expressed his appreciation to the former allies of New People’s Army for pledging their support to the government, the right step towards peace.
“You are now an inspiration to the remaining NPA rebels and supporters who are still afraid to renounce the terroristic ideologies of the CPP-NPA-NDF. With you as our new partners in spreading awareness about the deceptive maneuvers of CPP-NPA-NDF, we are optimistic that more rebels will recite the same oath and join our journey towards achieving peace ang progress in Panay Island,” said Brigadier General Sison.
[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/15-former-new-peoples-army-allies-in-iloilo-city-vows-to-support-government/
Opinion: Parlade para me
Opinion piece posted to the Manila Times (May 2, 2021): Parlade para me (By Mauro Gia Samonte)
Like it or not, Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., in a most effortless way, suddenly becomes the benchmark for whether one is pro- or anti-Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
In the controversies he has been thrown into by his detractors, one necessarily becomes pro- or anti-communist terrorist depending on whether he is pro- or anti-Parlade. His consistency to the point of obsession at exposing what he terms “duplicitous tactics” of the Sisonite communist terrorist insurgency has made him personify the government determination to end that insurgency once and for all.
I know of no other personality at the moment aside from President Duterte that has become the embodiment of the decades-old struggle of the Filipino nation to rid itself of the communist malady inflicted by the tandem of Jose Maria Sison and Benigno Aquino Jr. back in 1968.
Tarpaulins declaring the CPP-NPA persona non grata splashed on Manila footbridges, and the city mayor is quick to pin the blame on Parlade. Celebrities Liza Soberano, Catriona Gray and Angel Locsin cry “red-tagging,” bet your bottom peso it’s Parlade whodunit. A fair warning on the deceptive maneuvers of the CPP-NPA-NDF to drum up mass rage against the government through an innocent-looking humanitarian endeavor called “community pantry” can only come from who else but Parlade.
A huge bunch of senators threatens in unison to defund the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) if its spokesman is not fired and you can bet your balls this time, that guy is Parlade.
How Parlade has come to be demonized for his rabid anti-CPP-NPA-NDF stance and yet under his watch as NTF-Elcac spokesman, how massively have the Sisonite communist terrorists been exposed so that they just must buy time to stay their imminent demise!
Time has not been too far off when only legal front organizations of the CPP-NPA-NDF were hitting General Parlade precisely for unmasking them for what they really are: communist fronts. Party-list groups (Bayan Muna, Gabriela, ACT, Courage, Anak Pawis, Kabataan) calling themselves Makabayan bloc were one with leftist mass organizations (LFS, CEGP, NUSP, Kabataang Makabayan, Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, etc.) in calling for his dismissal as the anti-insurgency spokesman.
It was obvious that their intention was to stop the determined campaign of General Parlade to crush the insurgency both in the propaganda arena and in the battlefields. And in any case, this was understandable. They were the enemies the general was contending against; they would damn him till kingdom come.
Now, all of a sudden joining the obvious Reds in vehemently agitating for Parlade’s ouster were not just government officials but members of the top legislature, the Philippine Senate: Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto 3rd, Senate Committee on Defense and Security Chairman Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Senators Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros, Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Mary Grace Poe, Richard “Dick” Gordon, Franklin Drilon, Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and William Gatchalian.
Isn’t General Parlade doing a life-and-death struggle for the liberation of the country from communist terrorist aggression? And isn’t this struggle a primary strategy of the government which the general has been winning to the point of predicting the final demise of the CPP-NPA-NDF triad before the year ends. Why is it that among those fiercely agitating for his dismissal — which must only mean frustration of what is clearly taking shape now as the communist terrorists’ final defeat — are top government officials, including congressmen and senators?
Without him meaning it, General Parlade has, indeed, made of himself the paramount paradigm of what winning the war against the communist terrorists is all about.
Take Parlade and crush the CPP-NPA-NDF forever or reject him and plunge the nation into perdition.
I have made my choice: Parlade para me.
For whom are you?
https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/05/02/opinion/columnists/parlade-para-me/869284/
CHR-6 ‘won’t tolerate’ red-tagging; launches probe
From Panay News (May 1, 2021): CHR-6 ‘won’t tolerate’ red-tagging; launches probe (By Ime Sornito)
ILOILO City – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) slammed anew the red-tagging of members of progressive groups here.Last week, posters accusing activists of being members of the New People’s Army resurfaced.
“Halin sang una ang CHR nagahambal nga indi dapat or indi nagakaigu (ang red-tagging) kay ti may korte or prosecutors or judicial processes kita,” said Director Jonnie Dabuco of the CHR-6 in an interview with Panay News.
“Indi nga i-convict or pakalainon mo lang ang isa ka tawo without giving him or her the opportunity nga maka-present sang iya side,” he added.
Among those red-tagged were youth leader Lean Porquia, son of slain activist Jory Porquia; Bryan Bosque of Bayan Muna-Panay; lawyers Teofisto Melliza and Joebert Pahilga of the National Union of People’s Lawyers; Lucy Francisco of Gabriela-Panay; Irish Inoceto of Iloilo Pride Team; John Ian Alenciaga of Altermedya Panay; and Maura Abellon of Kadamay-Panay.
The posters described them as “qualified” to avail themselves of the Enhanced Community Livelihood Integration Program (E-CLIP), the government’s reintegration program for surrendering rebels.
“Red-tagging is very dangerous,” Dabuco stressed. “Ini bangod sa nagkalatabo sa mga persons nga previously gin-red-tag tapos eventually may natabo nga assault or murder…luckily iban naka-survive.”
The CHR launched this week an investigation.
“We received complaints, may nagpangayo sang bulig sa amon. Ti, amo ‘na ang response namon,” said Dabuco.
https://www.panaynews.net/chr-6-wont-tolerate-red-tagging-launches-probe/
PTF-ELCAC to open roads in ZamboSur’s hinterlands
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 1, 2021): PTF-ELCAC to open roads in ZamboSur’s hinterlands (By Gideon C. Corgue)
PAGADIAN CITY, May 1 (PIA) - The 53rd Infantry (Matapat) Battalion, Philippine Army not only conducts combat operations but it also conducts many community works especially in the hinterlands.Thus, revealed Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, commanding officer of the unit during the joint Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council meeting held recently at Balay Bisaya, Provincial Government Center, Dao this city.
Herrera said the unit was assisted by the 547th Engineer Battalion and 551st Engineer Battalion, Philippine Army in implementing ELCAC projects in the province by opening roads in the hinterlands.
The roads to be opened soon are as follows: Barangay Pawan to Pisompongan in Midsalip town; Barangay Datagan, Guipos to New Tuburan, Tigbao; and Barangay New Katipunan-Licuro-an- Pawan, Midsalip to DatuTotoca in Dumingag town.
Herrera said the opening of the roads is aimed at disrupting the mobility of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples Army (CPP-NPA) and providing basic services to people in very remote areas.
“The opening of roads are synonymous to the access of basic services. Through this, we can bring all government services to the hinterlands, ”Herrera explained.
"If we can open these roads that connect one barangay to other municipalities, we will totally disrupt the movements of CPP-NPA who are operating in that area," Herrera added.
Herrera added that these roads are very important because such areas are the ‘mobility corridors’ and traditional routes of the CPP-NPA.
He said that the NPA does not want roads so they burn government equipment but once the roads are opened, the NPAs will not be able to pass through those barangays.
Herrera added the province is very lucky due to the presence of Philippine Army battalions that provide security to the people including the 1st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division, 1st Field Artillery (Beat 'Em) Battalion, Army Artillery Regiment, 1st Civil Military Operations (CMO) and the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army.
"We are also lucky because with the help of this security sector we have had the most ELCAC projects maybe not only in the region but in the entire country," Herrera proudly announced. (EDT/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1073694
15 former CPP-NPA-NDF allies in Iloilo City vow support to government
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 1, 2021): 15 former CPP-NPA-NDF allies in Iloilo City vow support to government (By Jemin B. Guillermo)
ILOILO CITY, May 1 (PIA) -- Some 15 former members of the allied groups of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) from Barangay South Fundidor, Molo, Iloilo City took their oath of allegiance to the government on April 29, 2021.Said individuals were members of Padrias Parian Drivers Association (PPDA) and Comfuda Companya Fundidor Drivers Association (CCFDA) Transport sector under Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) headed by Noel Garcia, chairperson of CCFDA, and Arman Zandry Elangos, chairperson of PPDA, said 301st Brigade Civil-Military Operation (CMO) Officer Capt. Hazel Joy Durotan in a press release.
Durotan said the activity was done in collaboration with the Iloilo City Police Office Community Relations headed by PLt. Marlon Perez, SAMBAYANAN Metro Iloilo Chapter headed by Rey Cachuela, chairperson of Hugpong Obrero, and South Fundidor Barangay Council led by Barangay Chairperson Jonathan Altura.
Brigadier General Marion Sison, the 301st Infantry Brigade commander, expressed his appreciation to the former allies of the communist-terrorists for pledging their support to the government, which he said is the right step towards peace.
"You are now an inspiration to the remaining NPA allies who are still afraid to renounce the terroristic ideologies of the CPP-NPA Terrorist,” Sison said.
He added “With you as our new partners in spreading awareness about the deceptive maneuvers of the communist-terrorist organization, we are optimistic that more NPA allies will recite the same oath and join our journey towards achieving peace ang progress in Panay Island." (PIA6/Capt. Hazel Joy Durotan/CMO-301Bde/Philippine Army)
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1073968
1-name list for next PNP chief now with PRRD
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): 1-name list for next PNP chief now with PRRD (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said he has forwarded to President Rodrigo R. Duterte his one-name list on who would succeed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, who retires on May 8 after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
"I already submitted to the President my recommendation for the next Chief PNP after the retirement of Gen. Debold Sinas through Napolcom (National Police Commission) Resolution No. 2021-0469. The recommendation has only one name. But the President has the prerogative also to choose anyone with a rank of at least brigadier general in the PNP force," Año said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday.
He did not name who he recommended but this police officer is likely a member of the PNP Command Group that includes Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, deputy chief for administration; Lt. Gen. Joselito Vera Cruz, deputy chief for operations; and Lt. Gen. Ephraim Dickson, chief of the directorial staff.
Sinas earlier said all PNP generals are capable enough to lead the police force.
“We just wait kung sino pipiliin ng Presidente at siya po ang susuportahan ng buong PNP (We will just wait who the President would appoint and he will have the support of the entire PNP),” he told reporters when sought for comment after his last command conference on Tuesday.
He said he has completed his tasks and bid farewell to the troops.
“I will be preparing for any day na i-approve ng Malacañang kung kailan ang turnover (I will be preparing for the day of the turnover that Malacañang would approve). As to the (programs lined up), I leave that to the incoming (PNP chief),” he added.
Sinas, Eleazar, Vera Cruz, and Dickson belong to the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138706
Mayor, armed followers yield to police in BARMM
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): Mayor, armed followers yield to police in BARMM (By Edwin Fernandez)
PRIVATE ARMED GROUP SURRENDER. Mayor Salik Mamasabulod (3rd from left) hands over a firearm to PRO-BARMM Director, Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, during the formal surrender rites of the mayor and his private armed group at the regional police headquarters in Parang, Maguindanao on Friday (April 30, 2021). The Mamasabulod armed group surrendered four high-powered firearms. (Photo courtesy of PRO-BARMM)
A mayor in Maguindanao who maintained a private armed group (PAG) has voluntarily surrendered, along with his men and firearms, to the police in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“This is to serve as an example to other PAGs in the Pagalungan area,” Mayor Salik Mamasabulod of Pagalungan, Maguindanao said in a phone interview with reporters here Saturday.
On Friday afternoon, Mamasabulod dissolved his PAG and surrendered to the police.
Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, Police Regional Office (PRO) - BARMM director, welcomed the mayor and his private armed group at their headquarters in Parang, Maguindanao.
“After a series of negotiations with Mayor Mamasabulod, his men have surrendered peacefully to the PRO-BARMM,” Ugale said.
He identified the two sub-leaders of Mamasabulod’s followers, who represented the PAG in the surrender rites, as former police Corporal Faizal Mamasabulod, the mayor’s brother, and Norodin C. Sulayman, both of Barangay Damasalak in Pagalungan.
Ugale said the two men had been listed by the PRO-BARMM as active PAG members since March 15.
“The two are among the close-in security escorts of the mayor since 2013,” he said.
The group surrendered two M16 rifles, one Carbine rifle, and one M1 Garand rifle.
The PRO-BARMM is coordinating with the region’s Ministry of the Interior and Local Government on the proper disposition of Mamasabulod and his armed group’s surrender.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138701
Prominent Mindanao historian affirms BARMM coming-of-age
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): Prominent Mindanao historian affirms BARMM coming-of-age
Mindanao historian Rudy Buhay Rodil (Contributed photo)
An eminent historian has expressed elation over the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) two years after it was created by law following a plebiscite in 2019 and amidst a popular movement calling for an extension of the transition period from the old to the new autonomous government.
“Historic,” said Rudy Buhay Rodil, a prolific author and academic who used to teach at the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology in Iligan City.
Rodil was a member of the government panel negotiating peace with the Moro National Liberation Front (1993-1996) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (2004-2008).
Responding to questions about his opinion on Muslim Mindanao, he said “the fruit of GPH-Bangsamoro husay exchanges, from 1975 to 2020, has ripened into the BARMM.”
Husay, according to the historian, means “peace processes or peace negotiation.”
“Yang husay, ito ang matagal na nating ginagamit sa lahat ng conflicts, nagkakaiba sa spelling depende sa tribu pero ang husay (means) fixing conflicts, laging meron palitan ng salita, kasali ang facial expressions or gestures by hand or fingers (Husay has been used in fixing all conflicts. It just differs in spelling depending on the tribe),” he said.
He added: “Maraming nuances ang husay exchanges. Naging simula ang paggamit ng (It has many nuances and it was first used in) peace process ng UN (United Nations) at ng (and) Peace Commission before it became OPAPP.”
OPAPP stands for Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process. The peace commission was established by the Aquino administration in 1987.
Rodil added that the creation of the BARMM, even as it still awaits an extension of the period of transition, “is good not only for the Bangsamoro (but) also for the peoples of Mindanaw-Sulu, certainly for the Republic of the Philippines.”
“We have federalism in action,” he said.
Federalism has been a longstanding advocacy by several Mindanao groups over the last decades.
Proponents have cited its partiality to decentralized governance and more equitable enjoyment of opportunities and distribution of wealth.
Legislating federalism, however, has remained elusive.
A Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) was set up following the BARMM’s creation in 2019, the tenure of which is currently the subject of an intense campaign for an extension.
The period within which the BTA could operate before finally being disbanded was initially pegged at 2022.
But the Covid-19 pandemic posed practical and serious challenges to institution-building efforts, prompting a multi-sectoral push for an extension to 2025.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138751
Army accords funeral rites to slain NPA rebel in Zambo Sur
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): Army accords funeral rites to slain NPA rebel in Zambo Sur (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)
DECENT BURIAL. Two personnel of the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion serve as pallbearers during the funeral rite Friday (April 30, 2021) for James Cordero, a slain member of the communist New People's Army rebel in Barangay Datagan, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur. Cordero was killed along with a ranking NPA member, Felimon Suazo, in a clash with government troops on April 22, 2021 in Barangay Guinlin, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur. (Photo courtesy of 53IB)
Despite being an enemy of the state, the Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (IB) facilitated the funeral of a slain communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist in a remote village of Zamboanga del Sur, a military official said Saturday.
Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera, 53IB commander, said James Cordero was interred Friday in a Barangay Datagan, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.
Cordero, a Squad 1 member of the NPA’s Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU), was killed in a clash with government troops together with Felimon Suazo and a certain Ka Nathan on April 22 in Barangay Guinlin, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur.
Suazo was an executive committee (Execom) member of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC), a political instructor and finance officer, as well a member of the Squad 1 of the MRGU.
“Your Army ensures that the integrity of the victims of the NPA’s wrong ideologies would not experience the same misfortune in the hands of the heartless communist terrorists who used them out of personal motives,” Herrera said.
Merlyn Cordero, rebel’s mother, earlier said if only her son heeded their advice to come home and surrender, “he could be living a different life.”
She said James left home sometime in 2015 at the age of 17 after he was recruited by unidentified persons to join the NPA.
Herrera reiterated that the military "follow the principle of humane treatment in International Humanitarian Law, as it requires that those who fall into the hands of the enemy will be treated with respect for their dignity as human beings."
The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138727
Samal mayor calls NTF-ELCAC defunding 'foolish'
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): Samal mayor calls NTF-ELCAC defunding 'foolish' (By Che Palicte)
Samal Island Mayor Al David Uy. (PNA file photo)
ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL, Davao del Norte – Mayor Al David Uy said the defunding of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is "foolish" and a disservice to the barangays that fought hard to clear their communities of communist terrorist groups (CTGs).
“If you have issues with the person, you deal with that person, not with the program. I think defunding would be foolish, would be stupid, to be frank. It is a big disservice to the barangays who suffered too much from these New People’s Army (NPA),” Uy said in an interview Friday.
He said the city is not a recipient of the Barangay Development Program (BDP), but noted that the initiative would help villages in terms of infrastructure projects and crucial interventions.
The BDP, a hallmark program of NTF ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities, has identified 822 barangays nationwide that were former guerilla fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Of the PHP19 billion total budget of the NTF-ELCAC, PHP16.5 billion is allotted for the development of 822 barangays cleared of insurgency.
Each recipient barangay would receive PHP20 million for the following: 1-kilometer farm-to-market road worth PHP12 million; classrooms (PHP3 million); water and sanitation systems (PHP2 million); health station (PHP1.5 million); and livelihood projects (PHP1.5 million).
“It should continue because it has lined up good projects for the far-flung barangays,” Uy said.
The CPP-NPA, which has been waging a five-decade war against the government, 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/1138732
14 members, 325 supporters cut ties with NPA in Agusan Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (May 1, 2021): 14 members, 325 supporters cut ties with NPA in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)
MASS SURRENDER. Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo (4th from right), commander of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion, and Mayor Avelina S. Rosales (3rd from left) lead the mass surrender ceremony of 14 active Milisya ng Bayan and 325 members of Underground Mass Organizations on Friday (April 30, 2021) in Barangay Consorcia, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. Officials vow to facilitate the delivery of basic services for village people. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)
The communist New People’s Army (NPA) has recently lost a vital area in Las Nieves town in Agusan del Norte with the mass surrender of its barrio members and underground supporters, military officials said.
At least 14 active NPA in the barrios that communists call "militia ng bayan", and 325 members of underground mass organizations (UGMOs) from Barangay Consorcia, Las Nieves, formally cut their ties with the communist rebels during the pledge of allegiance ceremony held in said barangay on Friday.
They also surrendered nine caliber 22 (Airgun) rifles, four homemade shotguns with two live ammunition, and a caliber 38 pistol with five live ammunition.
Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) commander, said Saturday the surrenderers acted the "main support mechanism" of the NPA rebels in the area for many years.
“The mass surrender was triggered when a team from 23IB engaged the local officials and the residents of Barangay Consocia last year. Last December, we conducted a consultation and dialogue with the residents where they ventilated their concerns on the continued terroristic activities of the NPA rebels in their locality,” Paulo said in a statement.
He said the mass surrender came after the series of dialogue by the 23IB until the early part of the year.
“For years, the people get tired of the presence of the NPA in their community with no progress and development. Their daily lives were filled with uncertainties with the vulnerable peace and order situation with the constant presence of armed rebels,” Paulo said.
Among the rebel militias who surrendered was alias “Nong” who served the rebels for a decade.
“My main task is to collect contributions from the residents in our place. I also buy rice and the other needs of the rebels. There were times that I would facilitate the medication of wounded NPA rebels. I followed what they asked me to do and I did not refuse because of fear they might suspect me,” Nong was quoted as saying in the dialect.
He said he later realized it was wrong to force ordinary farmers, farm laborers, and other poor residents to contribute what meager resources they have to the NPA.
“I carried it with my conscience that I collected contributions from them. With the presence of the rebels, there’s no way we can free ourselves from poverty,” he said.
Paulo assured the surrenderers of the government's continued support.
“Now that the people of Consorcia abandoned the communist movement, the government, especially the local government unit can now implement development initiatives, programs and services in the barangay,” he said.
Las Nieves Mayor Avelina S. Rosales recognized the courage of the residents in denouncing the NPA rebels, saying the local government will immediately facilitate the delivery of programs and services to the village.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1138742