Tuesday, June 22, 2021

NPA arms cache found in Abra

From the Philippine Star (Jun 23, 2021): NPA arms cache found in Abra (By John Unson, Artemio Dumlao)

Acting on information from surrenderees, government troopers found a cache of guns and ammunition of New People’s Army rebels in Barangay Alangtin in Tubo, Abra on Sunday.

The military said four rifles, a 12-gauge shotgun, a caliber .38 revolver and bullets were recovered by personnel of the 71st Infantry Battalion, 69th IB, 73rd Military Intelligence Company and Abra police.

In South Cotabato, suspected NPA rebels Kristine Kala, 22, and Carla Lasib, 20, were arrested in T’boli town for alleged possession of fragmentation grenades and sachets of shabu.


Maj. Irish Parangan, T’boli police chief, said the two were initially held for showing fake contact-tracing cards, which are required for non-residents entering the province.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2021/06/23/2107401/npa-arms-cache-found-abra

Coast guard begins anti-terror, anti-piracy exercises in southwestern Mindanao

From Rappler (Jun 22, 2021): Coast guard begins anti-terror, anti-piracy exercises in southwestern Mindanao (By FRENCIE CARREON)



Task Force Pagsasanay will test the coast guard's newly acquired ship-based and coastal monitoring capabilities for search and rescue and law enforcement operations

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) began anti-terrorism and anti-piracy exercises in the waters off Zamboanga Peninsula and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Monday, June 21.

The weeklong Task Force Pagsasanay would test the coast guard's newly acquired ship-based and coastal monitoring capabilities for search and rescue and law enforcement operations, particularly at the Sibutu Passage and Basilan Strait, where piracy and abductions have become perennial problems.

The area where the exercises are ongoing is near the Zamboanga Peninsula region, and the provinces of Tawi-tawi, Basilan, and Sulu in the BARMM.


PCG Commandant Admiral George Ursabia Jr. said the ongoing exercises brought together the crew of four coast guard vessels – BRP Gabriela Silang, BRP Tubbataha, BRP Bagacay, and BRP Cape Engaño – along with personnel and dozens of fast-response boats from 47 Coast Guard stations and substations in southwestern Mindanao.

Ursabia said pilots and technical personnel from the Coast Guard Aviation Force were also taking part in the exercises that involve the PCG's BN Islander plane and several light twin-engine airbus helicopters.

He said Task Force Pagsasanay was organized to ensure that the "PCG can ably secure the Philippines' maritime jurisdiction, especially the frontiers where we are needed most."

Ursabia said the exercises would also test the Coast Guard's monitoring and search and rescue facilities in place to ensure that the PCG can quickly respond to distress calls up to 100 miles away via radio repeater stations.

The coast guard has recently established new stations at Great Bacungan at the seams of Turtle Islands and upgraded another in Taganac in Tawi-Tawi province.

It also set up a lighthouse at the southernmost islet of Panguan in Sitangkai to help fishermen and traditional maritime traders.

The exercises, he said, were being done because the Philippines is a contracting party to the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.

"Our community presence in this area has expanded 130% due to the entry of locals to the PCG. We believe such organizational enhancements, social and technological innovations and infrastructure projects, among others, have significantly contributed in the decrease on seajacking reports in Mindanao," Ursabia said. 

https://www.rappler.com/nation/philippine-coast-guard-anti-terror-piracy-exercises-mindanao-june-2021

3 BIFF fighters killed in Maguindanao clash

From the Manila Times (Jun 21, 2021): 3 BIFF fighters killed in Maguindanao clash (By Julmunir Jannaral)

Photo from Western Mindanao Command Facebook

Three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed in a two-day firefight in Maguindanao that started on Saturday and lasted until Sunday and also leading to the discovery of their lair.

According to Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, the troops of the Joint Task Force Central were conducting focused military operations when they encountered at least 10 BIFF terrorists under Muslimin Amilil, aka Mus of the 2nd Division of Karialan Faction. "Firefight ensued at Sitio Proper, Barangay Linantangan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha municipality, Maguindanao at about 5:52 a.m. on Sunday, which resulted in the deaths of three BIFF militants," Vinluan said.

While scouring the clash site, troops recovered the remains of the BIFF men and war materiel including three.45 caliber pistols, two hand grenades, eight grams of a crystalline substance believed to be shabu and P1,000 cash.


The recovered bodies and items were brought to the 1st Mechanized Battalion headquarters for proper disposition.

During the first day of the military operation, an abandoned enemy camp was discovered by the soldiers at Sitio Tubak, Barangay Saniag, Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of Joint Task Force Central, said the hideout can accommodate at least 80 to 100 persons.

It has 12 foxholes, three overhead bunkers, eight bunkers, three guard posts and running trenches.

The troops recovered one bandolier, four magazine pouches, one short magazine, one improvised explosive device, a copy of the Qur'an and suspected improvised explosive device components. The items were placed under the custody of the 92nd Infantry Battalion.

Vinluan congratulated the soldiers of the Cotabato City-based Joint Task Force Central, saying, "Rest assured that the Armed Forces will continue to conduct focused military operations to hunt and pound on the enemies, and recover their strongholds and armaments."

https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/06/21/news/regions/3-biff-fighters-killed-in-maguindanao-clash/1803994

7 NPA rebels yield in Surigao Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): 7 NPA rebels yield in Surigao Norte (By Alexander Lopez)



SURRENDER. The communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Surigao del Norte continues to suffer major blows as more of its fighters and supporters surrender to the government. Five regular NPA fighters and two Milisya ng Bayan formally surrendered to the 30th Infantry Battalion last June 19, 2021 in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)

Some seven communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) in Surigao del Norte over the weekend.

In a statement Monday, 30IB commander, Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, said
the seven surrenderers are composed of five NPA regular fighters and two Milisya ng Bayan (MB) who returned to the fold of the law last June 19 in Gigaquit town.

Callanta identified the five NPA fighters as alias Jerson, a vice squad leader; alias Daylan, a political guide; alias Gelai; alias Jimjim; and alias Robert.

The two Militia ng Bayan were alias Ramon and alias Bernie.


“Fatigue, hunger and the longing to see their families pushed these NPA rebels to abandon the communist movement and return to the fold of the law,” Callanta said.

The seven were operating in the hinterlands of Surigao del Norte and parts of Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Norte under the Guerrilla Front (GF) 16 C1 of the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

They also handed over to the Army several high-caliber firearms and ammunition.

The rebels also pinpointed a site in Sitio Tagbak in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur where two AK-47 rifles were hidden and recovered by authorities on Saturday.


Alias Jerson, in his testimony quoted in the same statement, recalled their difficulties in securing food supplies in communities.

“The masses are now afraid of the NPA rebels. We no longer get support from the communities. A number of our fighters also died in the recent encounters in the area. We were just waiting for when will be our turn to die. With the difficulties we could no longer bear, we decided to surrender,” Jerson said.

Callanta has recognized the support of the other stakeholders and community members in facilitating the safe surrender of the former NPA rebels.

“Through the help and support of the communities and families, we were able to inform the seven on the concepts of the enhanced comprehensive local integration program. Upon realizing the sincerity of the government to help them through the ECLIP program, the seven all together abandoned the terrorist NPA movement,” Callanta said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144346

3 killed in Lanao del Sur ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): 3 killed in Lanao del Sur ambush (By Edwin Fernandez)


Google map photo

Three persons were killed and another was injured in a Sunday afternoon ambush triggered by a long-standing “rido” (family feud) involving Muslim families in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur.

Maj. Marlon Silvestre, Balabagan town police chief, identified the fatalities as Mando Interino and militiamen Hanafi Baraguer, and Venhar Macapodi, all residents of Barangay Tubok, Malabang, Lanao del Sur.


“All three victims died on the spot,” Silvestre told reporters here Monday.

Injured was Mastor Gani of Barangay Barurao, Balabagan Lanao Del Sur, who was hit by a stray bullet and is now recuperating in the town’s hospital.

The victims were onboard separate motorcycles heading from Balabagan to nearby Malabang town when gunmen ambushed them around 4 p.m. in Barangay Molimok, Balabagan town.

"Witnesses said the gunmen quickly boarded a multi-cab vehicle and sped off after the incident,” Silvestre said.

Responding policemen found empty shells for Galil rifle, M16 rifle, and .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene.

Silvestre said efforts by both local and religious leaders are underway to defuse tension in Balabagan and nearby Malabang and prevent escalation of hostilities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144348

Suspect in bus burning, bombing fall in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): Suspect in bus burning, bombing fall in NoCot (By Edwin Fernandez)



ARRESTED. Ali Akbar, suspect in bus bombing and burning incidents in North Cotabato, is arrested in Barangay East Patadon, Kidapawan City on Monday morning (June 21, 2021). Police and the military found improvised bombs (inset) near his hideout. (Photo courtesy of 602nd Brigade)

The suspected mastermind of the Yellow Bus Line (YBL) bus burning in January and early this month, both in North Cotabato, was arrested in Kidapawan City on Monday morning.

Suspect Ali Akbar was nabbed by joint elements of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade, 90th Infantry Battalion, 72nd Infantry Battalion, and the local police in Purok 3, Barangay East Patadon at about 5 a.m., according to Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade.

Capulong said Akbar is an improvised explosive device (IED) expert and an extortionist belonging to the Dawlah Islamiya (DI)-Hassan Group.

“Akbar was nabbed based on the warrant of arrest issued by Branch 23, Regional Trial Court, 12th Judicial Region, for double murder and multiple frustrated murder,” Capulong said in a statement.

Authorities seized two IEDs, a blasting cap, IED components, and an Islamic State of Iraq and Syria flag from Akbar.

On January 27, an improvised bomb went off beside a YBL unit in Tulunan town, killing a roadside fruit vendor and injuring three others.

On June 3, a YBL unit was burned in Barangay Bialong, M’lang, killing three passengers who got trapped.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry division commander and concurrent chief of the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), lauded the operating units and vowed to continuously pursue and hunt down the remnants of the terrorist group.

“The DI does not have a place in our community and with the help of the residents and local government units in Central Mindanao, we will defeat them ultimately,” Uy told reporters in an interview.

He pointed out that several communities and provinces under the JTFC have declared the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the DI terror groups unwelcome in their areas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144437

21 former NPA rebels in SoCot get P2-M aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): 21 former NPA rebels in SoCot get P2-M aid (By Allen Estabillo)



The provincial capitol building of South Cotabato (File photo courtesy of the provincial government)

A total of 21 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from parts of South Cotabato province have received some PHP1.97 million in financial assistance under the government’s flagship Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Haide Agustin, head of the South Cotabato Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, said on Tuesday the released grants comprised the firearms remuneration and immediate reintegration and livelihood assistance for the returnees.


She said these were released in a simple ceremony on Monday witnessed via Zoom by Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. and representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The official said 16 of the former rebels received checks amounting to PHP86,000 each or a total of PHP1.37 million in immediate reintegration and livelihood assistance while three others got PHP174,000 each as firearms remuneration.

“The remaining two received a combined PHP422,000 in immediate reintegration, livelihood, and remuneration grants,” she said in a statement.

One of the recipients, identified as alias “Kerker,” expressed his gratitude to the government for helping him realize his desire to lead a normal life with his family.

The 19-year-old returnee, the youngest in the group, joined the NPA while still a minor four years ago but decided to surrender last year after being disillusioned with the group’s unrealized promises.

The second of four siblings, he said they were promised various benefits, among them the supposed free education.

“At my young age, I believed in their promises but none of those came into reality,” he said during the turnover ceremony.

"Kerker” said there is no more reason for him to remain in the communist terrorist group as government services are now available for them, especially with the free education and hospitalization programs being implemented in the province.

He vowed to use the PHP86,000 financial assistance he received from the government “to start a new life,” and initially plans to go back to school and start a livelihood project.

Tamayo said the provincial government remains committed to assisting rebels who want to surrender and go back to their communities.

He urged them to encourage their former comrades to also embrace the government’s standing offer to return to the fold of the law and take part in the reintegration program.

“We will continue with our efforts to address your problems, let us unite to achieve lasting peace,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144491

82 communist-linked schools in Bukidnon monitored

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): 82 communist-linked schools in Bukidnon monitored (By Nef Luczon and Franck Dick Rosete)



NPA RECRUITMENT GROUND NO MORE. Residents of Barangays Sagundanon and Cabalantian in Kitaotao, Bukidnon demolish a school operated by Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI) on June 5, 2021. Officials of the two barangays, which are mostly inhabited by indigenous peoples, claimed that communist-front group MISFI operated the school that served as a recruitment haven of the CPP-NPA. (Photo courtesy of 72IB)

The Army's 10th Infantry Division (10ID) confirmed it is conducting "intensive monitoring" of some 82 private-run schools in Bukidnon suspected to be "recruitment fronts" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Maj. Jerry Lamosao, 10ID spokesperson, in a recent interview, said they have intensified their collaboration with the community and other government agencies and local government units, after a private school allegedly operated by a non-government organization in Purok 2, Sagundanon village, Kitaotao town, Bukidnon, was demolished because of its alleged links to the CPP-NPA.

"It is through collaboration with the local officials, residents in the community, and government agencies that we have identified the NPA recruitment schools," he said.

Lamosao said the 82 schools on their list are Salugpungan, Mindanao Interfaith Services Foundation Inc. (MISFI), Community Technical College of Southern Mindanao, "Clans," Father Faustino Tentorio Memorial School, Assumption Interfaith Academy Foundation Incorporated, and other schools operated by Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, among others.

He said MISFI was recently identified to have been operated the "NPA recruitment school" in Purok 2, Sagundanon village for four years.


He also said children from different barangays were sent to these schools in the hope of proper education and a better future.

Demolition

On June 5, Sagundanon village chief Jeofrey Gawilan and Cabalantian village chief Thelma Hilaria, together with their Sangguniang Barangay and Tribal Council, issued a resolution to demolish the MISFI school over "false teachings and ideologies by the NPA".

A 22-minute video uploaded by a radio reporter in Bukidnon Igan Xander showed residents from two villages demolishing the school.

Gawilan said the resolution implementing the demolition of MISFI School had been unanimously agreed by barangay officials and its constituents.

"We call on our youth to never be deceived by the deceptions of the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front). By this demolition, we hope that slowly, we will achieve the peace we long for here in our Barangay," he said in a statement.

The two officials said parents of former students admitted that their children were brought to Manila.

The parents said they only had the chance to talk to them twice. Based on the last news they received, their children were forced to work on a farm.

Some students were reportedly promised free education in Manila but ended up joining rallies.

"Today marks a new beginning for all of us. As we celebrate this month of Independence Day, we also freed ourselves from the shadow of the communist terrorist groups," Hilaria said in a statement on the school demolition.

Meanwhile, barangay residents called on other barangays that are sympathetic to the CPP-NPA to withdraw their support and return to the fold of the real government.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144602

18 loose firearms surrendered to military in NoCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): 18 loose firearms surrendered to military in NoCot (By Noel Punzalan)



LOOSE FIREARMS. Village officials of Midsayap, North Cotabato led by Vice Mayor Manuel Rabara hands on Tuesday (June 22, 2021) turn over 18 loose firearms collected from 10 villages of the town. Nearly 100 assorted firearms were surrendered by local government units to military and police units in Central Mindanao since January this year. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Eighteen loose firearms were turned over by several barangay officials of Midsayap, North Cotabato to military and police authorities here Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Roberto Capulong, commander of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade (602Bde), received the high-powered firearms collected by the village chiefs of 10 barangays.

“This is the result of the concerted efforts of the local government unit of Midsayap together with the barangay leaders who supported the government’s campaign against loose firearms,” Capulong said.

The simple turnover ceremony at the Sangguniang Bayan Social Hall of Midsayap was witnessed by Midsayap Vice Mayor Manuel Rabara and other local officials.

The surrendered firearms included a Bushmaster rifle; a 40mm grenade launcher; a Garand rifle, two 50mm rifles; an M79 grenade launcher; two M14 rifles; three sniper rifles; a 12-gauge shotgun; a .38-caliber revolver; five .45-caliber pistols, and various ammunition.

Data from the military showed that local officials from nearby Kabacan town, also in North Cotabato, also turned over seven assorted firearms to the 602Bde on May 20.

“This brings to 25 loose firearms surrendered by local government units (LGUs) in North Cotabato to state forces in a month’s time,” Capulong said.

Since January this year, nearly 100 firearms were surrendered by LGUs in Central Mindanao to both military and police authorities.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) commander and concurrent chief of Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), has fully recognized the gesture of support of the LGUs to the government campaign against loose firearms.

“This exemplifies the harmonious relationship among the peace advocates, the security sector, local officials and leaders, and the communities in the region,” he said.

Uy said the 6ID and the JTFC will continuously work with partners from the civilian government agencies and organizations to address and ultimately end armed lawless threats against the peace-loving communities in North Cotabato and the rest of the region.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144606

TFBL releases revised handbook for ex-rebels' reintegration

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): TFBL releases revised handbook for ex-rebels' reintegration (By Priam Nepomuceno)



TFBL chair Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu (File photo)

The Task Force Balik Loob (TFBL) has released the second edition of the Former Rebel Reintegration Handbook which now includes former violent extremists (FVEs) as beneficiaries of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

TFBL chair and Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu said the second edition of
the handbook will serve as a guide for the implementation of E-CLIP, which is designed to provide holistic and pro-active assistance to former rebels (FRs) and FVEs.


“We have to continue informing and empowering our E-CLIP implementers so that the beneficiaries of the program will be assisted more effectively in their transition to mainstream society,” he said in a statement Sunday.

Mapagu added that the handbook embodies the existing implementing rules and regulations as well as guidelines for the different partner agencies for the total reintegration of former rebels who have decided to return to the fold of the law.

“Unlike previous integration programs for former rebels, E-CLIP emphasizes individual assistance suited for the needs of the beneficiaries, community development through PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) program, and the participation of non-government organizations," he added.

Through the revised handbook, Mapagu said E-CLIP implementers on the ground will have a valuable resource and reference for the specific aid or process that can be undertaken for FRs and FVEs.

The E-CLIP was the outcome of the directive issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte that provides for shelter, employment, and livelihood assistance, as well as an effective monitoring and evaluation system, for former members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

The FVEs were included as beneficiaries of the E-CLIP through Administrative Order No. 25, series of 2020.

The handbook is a working document and will be updated when deemed necessary to respond to the changing environment or situation, such as benefits given by the different agencies, as agreed upon mutually by all concerned parties.

The E-CLIP is the government’s flagship program for the reintegration of former rebels and former violent extremists into mainstream society.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144343

Giving in to Reds' poll extortion act of terror financing: PNP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): Giving in to Reds' poll extortion act of terror financing: PNP (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)



The country's top cop on Monday cautioned anew those planning to run in next year's national and local elections against paying “permit-to-campaign” fees to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

In a statement, PNP chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said giving in to extortion demands of the communist terrorists would mean providing them financial support which is punishable under the law.


He cited President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s declaration of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization under Proclamation No. 374 in connection with Section 3 (e) (1) of Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism and Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

“Ayon po dito sa Republic Act 10168, nahaharap sa kaso ang sinumang magbibigay ng suportang pinansyal sa alinmang teroristang grupo (According to Republic Act 10168, anyone who provides financial support to any terrorist group will face charges). Any amount given to the terrorist group would be considered financial support to enable the group to carry out an attack,” he added.

Violators of the law may face up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of not less than PHP500,000, and freezing of their property, funds, and other assets by the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

Eleazar warned that a political candidate may also be held accountable as a principal in terrorist activities under Section 12 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and could face charges under the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines.

“Nanawagan po tayo sa mga balak kumandidato sa nalalapit na halalan na huwag po tayo magbibigay ng tinatawag na ‘permit-to-campaign fee’ sa CPP-NPA dahil wala itong pinagkaiba sa pagsuporta sa mga rebeldeng komunista at sa kanilang paghahasik ng karahasan sa ating mga komunidad (We call on those who are planning to run in the upcoming elections not to give the so-called 'permit-to-campaign fee' to the CPP-NPA because it makes no difference in supporting the communist rebels and in sowing violence in the community),” Eleazar said.

Eleazar added that the money collected by the communist rebels will definitely be used in the purchase of more firearms and other logistics to sustain their senseless and pointless “armed struggle”.

Eleazar added that giving in to the communist rebels’ demand for money would only embolden them to continue their extortion activities.

He pointed out that this illegal activity by the CPP-NPA just shows that they are just common thugs and do not adhere to any moral principle.

The CPP-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/1144371

Solon wants probe into CPP-NPA recruitment, transactions

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): Solon wants probe into CPP-NPA recruitment, transactions (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)



Duterte Youth party-list Rep. Ducielle Marie Cardema (Contributed photo)

A party-list lawmaker on Monday called for a congressional investigation into the recruitment process, financial transactions, and operations of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People's Army (CPP-NPA) to help the government neutralize communist insurgency in the country.

Duterte Youth party-list Rep. Ducielle Marie Cardema filed House Resolution 1905, which
condemns the "terrorist killings" made by the CPP-NPA to football player Kieth Absalon and his labor leader cousin Nolvin Absalon in Masbate City.

Cardema, in her resolution, also demanded for the surrender or immediate arrest of the perpetrators.

"The CPP-NPA has a proven history of violence and killings against civilians and government troops and these violent attacks will remain unpunished under the Philippine judicial system should the CPP-NPA refuse to surrender them, then the government must pursue neutralizing them," Cardema said.

Cardema, who serves as the vice-chair of the House Defense Committee, said Congress must participate in the whole-of-nation approach launched by President Rodrigo Duterte to investigate and put an end to the "more than 50-year terrorist attacks" of the CPP-NPA.

The CPP-NPA owned up to the incident and expressed remorse over the “errors in the military action mounted by an NPA unit”.

Initial investigation showed the Absalon cousins died after an anti-personnel mine (APM) exploded.

Further investigation revealed that Nolven had a gunshot wound to the right shoulder as well as his left lateral thigh while Kieth took a bullet to the right eye.

Both died of hemorrhagic shock secondary to the gunshot wounds and blast injuries from the APM explosion.

Lt. Gen. Anthony Parlade Jr., also the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) co-spokesperson, agreed with Keith’s mother, Vilma, that the peaceful process to end communist terrorism needs all the help it can get from Filipinos.

“Tama po ‘yan. Bakit kailangan namin ng tulong ng mga mamamayan natin, ordinaryong mamamayan? ‘Di po pwedeng gobyerno lang, di po pwedeng si pulis lang, si Army lang. Kailangan po natin tulong talaga ng sambayanan (We need the cooperation of the people in this fight. The government cannot do it alone),” he said.

In the recent virtual presser of NTF-ELCAC, Parlade described the brutality of the rebels from witnesses who stated that after being hit by the APM, Kieth and Nolven were still alive and raised their hands to signify surrender.

The terrorists shot them just the same, as confirmed by the gunshot wounds indicated on the police report.

Parlade said the joint operations of the Philippine National Police and the military to hunt those responsible for the Absalons’ death will continue in Barangay Anas and Bolo in Masbate City as the CTGs led by Arnold Rosero (alias Star) are still hiding in the area.

The Absalon family earlier rejected the written apology of the CPP-NPA that claimed the "unnecessary deaths of Kieth and Nolven were a mistake in military action by their group".

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144381

Anti-terrorism body sets meeting to polish rules

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): Anti-terrorism body sets meeting to polish rules (By Benjamin Pulta)



The Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) will meet before the end of June to fine-tune internal rules, a senior Department of Justice (DOJ) official said Monday.

Undersecretary Adrian Sugay said “a few additional provisions” will be taken up during the next ATC meeting.

“It might be better to submit the matter first to the ATC before any disclosure (to newsmen). The mechanism is internal to the ATC,” Sugay said in a text message to reporters.

To date, the ATC has not yet received requests for delisting in the terrorists’ roster released in May.

“The internal mechanism for designation also contains provisions re delisting. As far as I know, no request for delisting has been received by the ATC,” Sugay said.

Republic Act 11479 (Anti-Terrorism Act) defines terrorists as persons who engage in acts intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person or endangers a person's life; cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place or private property; and cause extensive interference with, damage or destruction to critical infrastructure.

Terrorists are those who develop, manufacture, possess, acquire, transport, supply, or use weapons, explosives or biological, nuclear, radiological, or chemical weapons, and release dangerous substances causing fire, floods or explosions.

Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison topped the list of terrorists identified by the ATC.

The roster included Sison’s wife, Julieta; National Democratic Front consultants Benito Tiamzon, Wilma Tiamzon, Rafael Baylosis and Vicente Ladlad; and 13 other members of the CPP central committee.


Under Resolution No. 16 issued on April 20, 2021 the ATC also designated as terrorists 10 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group and other militant organizations linked to the Islamic State group.

Among them were Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan, alleged mastermind in the deadly August 2020 twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu, and Esmael Abdulmalik, also known as Commander Toraifie.


The assets of individuals tagged as terrorists shall be subject to investigation and/or freezing by the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

Any financial support that is directly or indirectly extended to them shall be dealt with in accordance with existing laws.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144372

75% of NPA rebels in Mindanao are IPs: Esperon

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): 75% of NPA rebels in Mindanao are IPs: Esperon (By Priam Nepomuceno)



National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. (PNA File photo)

The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) is deliberately deceiving and radicalizing indigenous peoples (IP) to fill up their ranks especially in Mindanao, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. said Monday.

Esperon, during the June 21 episode of "Tagged: Debunking Lies by Telling the Truth", said
the communist terrorists were able to achieve this by their use of so-called NPA schools which initially pretend to exist to give IP youths a brighter future.

In fact, he said, around 70 to 75 percent of NPA rebels in Mindanao are natives recruited by the communist terrorists among IP groups, he added.

"Sinadya talaga, sa pamamagitan ng pag-radicalize ng ating mga kabataan sa mga tinatawag nating NPA schools na kunyari ay ginamit nila yan na magbibigay sana ng magandang kinabukasan na through education ngunit ginagamit nila mga eskwelahan na yan para makapag recruit (Their decision to recruit and radicalize our youth are intentional. They do that by using the so-called NPA schools that pretend to give their recruits a good future via education but in reality, they are using these schools just to recruit (and radicalize)," he added.


Esperon, who is National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) vice-chair, was referring to the Salugpungan, the Tribal Indigenous Filipinos Phil-Surigao Del Sur, Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, and the Community Technical College of Southern Mindanao.

87% of surrenderers IPs

Citing data from the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, he said 87 percent of the surrendering NPA rebels to the unit are IPs.

"At ang nakikita natin sa datos na yun ay yung mga nagsu surrender ay nakuha noong mga edad na 10 hanggang 12 years old, dun pa lang, kinukuha na sila at hindi naman nirerecruit pa yung mga batang mas bata pa dahil doon pala nag aaral sa mga eskwelahan pero pagdating ng 10 to 12 years old, sinisimulan na yan na gamitin na sa pakikipaglaban kung hindi naman taga karga o tagadala ng mga gamit (Data shows that from those who surrendered, they were recruited when they were 10 to 12 years old. The younger children are not yet recruited as they are still studying in their schools but once they reached 10 to 12 years old, they will be utilized by communist terrorists in fighting and if not, they will be used to carry goods and other equipment)," Esperon said.

Data also revealed that almost all of the recruits only had the equivalent of a Grade 3 to Grade 6 education.

"Ang ibig sabihin nun, hindi talaga pag-aaral ang binibigay ng mga Salugpungan schools, yung mga tribal schools na yan, kundi upang iradicalize lang sila, upang sa tamang o sa edad na pwede na sila makipagbakbakan ay (kukunin) na sila, yun ang purpose nila (It means that education is not the real purpose of those Salugpungan schools. Those tribal schools, their purpose is to radicalize these IPs, so once they reached the proper age, they can now be used for fighting)," he added.

Subsequent investigations on these NPA-operated tribal schools cannot really provide proper education to their students as they do not have the so-called "learners' number".

"Kaya hindi aabante kaya pag magpunta talaga yan sa eskwelahan na DepEd (Department of Education) ay wala naman sila learners' number kaya saan sila ilalagay? uulit lang sila. Sa makatuwid, ang purpose talaga non ay upang ma-recruit lang sila at ma radicalize upang maging NPA fighters (Students in these NPA schools cannot progress academically once they are transferred to DepEd schools because they don't have a learners' number. Where exactly will they be assigned? They will have to repeat. So once and for all, the purpose of these schools is to recruit and radicalize so that these IPs can be turned into NPA fighters)," Esperon said.

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

IP exploitation

"So, there goes the fact that they have exploited the IPs, only to get warm bodies to fight (for) the CPP- NPA, another way of exploiting them," Esperon said.

Aside from using vulnerable IPs as front-line fighters, communist terrorists are also utilizing the dearth of schools in their areas to raise money.

"Ang ginagawa ngayon ng Save Our Schools na nakikita natin, na sila pala, nakikita naman natin sa kanilang messages na ginagawa nila ay pagkalap ng pondo sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng maling impormasyon sa international community na hindi natin inaasikaso itong mga IPs (Save Our Schools is trying to raise funds by stating wrong information to the international community that the IPs are not being taken care by the government)," he said.

He added that while these dubious groups are collecting the funds, they are not telling the donors that the money goes straight to the NPA that uses it to fund schools that radicalize IPs.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144438

Stop NPA deceptions, recruitment of Manobo kids: IP leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 21, 2021): Stop NPA deceptions, recruitment of Manobo kids: IP leader (By Lade Jean Kabagani)



Datu Rico Maca, Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur (PNA File photo)

A representative of the indigenous peoples (IP) in Surigao del Sur called on left-leaning organizations to stop deceiving the Manobo tribe, particularly recruiting IP minors to join the armed movement against the government.

"Kami po ay nanawagan sa mga left-leaning organizations lalo sa Save our School Network at yung isang nakilala natin sa social (media) na si Chad Booc na sana naman tigilan nila yung pag spread out ng mga fake na information kasi kami pa po yung namatayan, kami pa po yung parang inaapi dito sa situation na ito (We are appealing to the left-leaning organizations, especially to the Save our School Network and social media personality Chad Booc, to stop spreading fake information about the situation because we are the ones who are bereaved, it seems that we are the ones being oppressed in this situation)" said Datu Rico Maca, Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, during a virtual media briefing on Monday.

Maca made the statement after several personalities and militant groups said the three fatalities in an "intense firefight" between the government forces and the communist rebels in Barangay Diatagan, Lianga town on June 15, were not New People's Army (NPA) but plain civilians.

The Manobo tribal leaders, he said, conducted a tribal investigation into the armed ecounter that killed Lenie Perez Rivas, 38; Willy Salinas Rodriguez, 20; and a 12-year-old minor.

The tribal leaders appealed for respect of IP's customary laws on self-governance and self-determination from those progressive organizations and personalities claiming that the fatalities were just victims of 'militarization.'

Maca, however, denied that the IP communities were being maltreated by the military.

"Kami po yung totoong biktima, kami po yung totoong apektado. Mali po yung sinasabi ng mga taga bakwit school student na nandun sa UP, na nandun sa Cebu na inaapi kaming mga tribo katutubo ng kasundaluhan. Mali po yun (We are the victims here, we are the affected ones. The claims of the Bakwit Schools students in the University of the Philippines in Cebu that we are being oppressed by the military forces are wrong. That is false)," Maca said.

He lamented that communist rebels are the ones destroying the lives of the IP communities by putting up schools as a recruitment haven for the NPA.

"Kung tingnan natin maganda po yung sinasabi nila pero ito yung kuta, ito yung eskwelahan para imold yung utak ng kabataan tribo na magigig anti-government (If we look at it, they say good things about education, but it serve as a stronghold of the rebels, this school is being used to mold the minds of the IP minors to overthrow the government)," he added.

Killings of tribal leaders

Maca disclosed the killings of the tribal leaders started when they decided to close down schools run by the communist groups.

"Makapagbigay po kami ng figures, numbers ng iilan na brutally na pinatay ng NPA, 'yung mga tribal leaders na senior citizens na pinapatay ng NPA sa kadahilanan na kami ay nag-decide na ipasarado ang makarebeldeng eskwelahan (We can give figures, some numbers of those who brutally killed by the NPA, particularly those elderly tribal leaders who were killed because we decided to close down the left-leaning schools)," he added.

He said Manobo tribal leaders and the IP themselves are really longing to end insurgency and live peacefully in their areas.

"Sana matulungan kami na yung mga left-leaning organizations ay matapos na ang kanilang panlilinlang at paggamit sa mga kabataang tribo lalo na dito sa amin (Hopefully it will help us that the left-leaning organizations would stop their deceptions and exploitation of the IP youths especially here in our tribal community)," he said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144454

NPA leader in Eastern Samar nabbed in Manila

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): NPA leader in Eastern Samar nabbed in Manila (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)


Photo courtesy of NCRPO

A communist terrorist group (CTG) leader in Eastern Samar was arrested in a police operation in Manila on Monday afternoon, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., NCRPO chief,
identified the suspect as Rodel Mabahin, alias 'Ka Rico', 21, who is also listed as Samar province's sixth most wanted person.

Danao said the operation stemmed from information obtained through surveillance of the suspect which resulted in the validation of his identity and whereabouts.

Mabahin was arrested by joint operatives of NCRPO and personnel of the Calbiga Municipal Police Station (MPS) around 1 p.m. at the corner of A. H. Lacson Ave. and Jocson St. in Sampaloc, Manila.

The suspect has warrants of arrest for carnapping with violence/intimidation, serious illegal detention, robbery, and theft issued by the Calbiga, Samar Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 33 and the Calbiga-Hinabangan, Samar 7th Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC).

Based on reports, Danao said the suspect escaped from the Calbiga MPS in 2019 and carted away high-powered firearms and ammunition, two mobile phones, and a motorcycle.

He then went to Metro Manila and hid for two years.

Mabahin, also known as 'Kumander Didit', is a platoon leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Eastern Samar. He has taken medical, sniper, and bomb-making courses and has been involved in operations of the NPA hit squad known as the Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) in Samar since 2015.

Mabahin is now under the custody of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion of the NCRPO for documentation and proper disposition.

"Napag-alaman natin na ang akusado ay konektado sa communist terrorist group at matagal ng nagtatago sa batas. Sisiguraduhin namin na magkakaroon ng mga debriefing upang makakuha pa tayo ng mga sapat na impormasyon ukol sa kanilang mga gawain at matunton ang iba pa niyang kasamahan na maaaring nagtatago pa sa batas (We have learned that the accused is connected with the communist terrorist group and has long been hiding from the law. We will make sure that there will be debriefings so that we can get more information about their activities and track his other cohorts who may still be hiding from the law)," Danao said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144487

Sobejana eyes more ‘firepower’ for PH Air Force

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): Sobejana eyes more ‘firepower’ for PH Air Force (By Priam Nepomuceno)



MORE AIR ASSETS. AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana poses for a photo opportunity after joining the FA-50PH tactical capability demonstration flight at the Philippine Air Force's 5th Fighter Wing headquarters in Basa Air Base, Pampanga on Monday (June 21, 2021). Sobejana said more air assets will be acquired to beef up the PAF's defensive capabilities. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana announced that more air assets will be acquired to boost the defensive capabilities of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

“We will pursue the acquisition of more modern assets such as the multi-role fighters to beef up our air defense capability. These shall boost the morale and welfare of our troops because after all, our personnel are our greatest and most valuable asset,”
Sobejana said in a statement Tuesday.

On Monday, Sobejana made an official visit to the PAF's 5th Fighter Wing headquarters at Basa Air Base, Pampanga where he also joined in the FA-50PH tactical capability demonstration flight.


“The experience that I have for the past 45 minutes up in the air on our Philippine Air Force’ FA-50PH made me feel the significance of our air assets in our campaign against the Abu Sayyaf Group, the Bangsamoro Freedom Fighters, and other terrorists groups that we are fighting against,” he added.

The PAF’s FA-50PH aircraft stationed in Basa Air Base is among air assets being utilized by the AFP in its joint air and ground operations against local terrorists and communist terrorist groups.

After the demonstration flight, Sobejana was awarded the Mach 1+ Patch by 5th Fighter Wing commander Brig. Gen. Fabian Pedregosa; the Mach Buster Certificate by Air Defense Command head Maj. Gen. Connor Canlas; and the FA-50PH Patch by PAF chief Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes.

Sobejana has been visiting different units of the AFP, including major service commands, to keep abreast of the status of its personnel and ensure that their morale and welfare are being well taken care of.

“In our pursuit of both operational success and organizational development, we are one with every soldier, airman, sailor, and marines. No one is left behind,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144486

US delivers P183-M worth of weapons, equipment to PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): US delivers P183-M worth of weapons, equipment to PH (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



NEW MILITARY EQUIPMENT. US Air Force personnel unload weapons and equipment off a KC-10 Extender at Clark Air Base. The latest shipment worth PHP183 million includes nine M3P .50-caliber heavy machine guns and 10 mortar tubes. (Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila)

The United States has delivered PHP183 million (USD3.8 million) worth of weapons and equipment to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the US Embassy in Manila reported Tuesday.

The delivery, funded by both Philippine national funds and US grant assistance, included nine M3P .50-caliber heavy machine guns, 10 mortar tubes, and other equipment.

The embassy said this is intended to enhance the AFP’s counterterrorism and maritime security capabilities.


“The United States will continue to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ capacity-building efforts through joint training and key military equipment transfers. Our mutual security collaboration remains a cornerstone of a free and open Indo-Pacific," Joint United States Military Assistance Group-Philippines Chief and Senior Defense Official to Manila Col. Stephen Ma said.

The shipment was delivered on June 21 at Clark Air Base. To date, the Philippines remains the largest recipient of US military assistance in the Indo-Pacific.

Since 2015, Washington has provided more than PHP48.6 billion (USD1 billion) in security assistance to the country.

"This year, the United States and the Philippines are commemorating 70 years since the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty, and this delivery continues the United States’ longstanding commitment to our Filipino allies," the embassy said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144520

Save Our School Network’s claim fake news

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): Save Our School Network’s claim fake news




The claim of Save Our School (SOS) Network that the three indigenous people (IP) killed in an encounter with government troops in Surigao del Sur last week were mere "farmers" during a protest rally in front of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is fake news.

During the recent virtual press conference of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), Lt. Col. Benedict Gernale, army operation commander who carried out anti-insurgency operations in Lianga town, confirmed that the fatalities were armed combatants of the New People's Army (NPA) killed in the encounter that took place last June 15 in the province, contrary to the SOS Network’s fabricated lies.

Gernale showed a photo of the body of the slain male combatant armed with an automatic rifle indicating that he was indeed a fighter of the NPA. He was identified as Willy Salinas Rodriguez, 20, a member of the NPA's Sentro de Grabidad Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

"Wala rin pong abacahan sa area (There is also no abaca plantation in the area)," Gernale pointed out, repudiating SOS Network’s earlier claims on social media that the victims were allegedly harvesting abaca when they were killed.


The military official also said the two other fatalities were both female warriors, one of whom was still a minor.

Gernale said the incident confirmed the intelligence reports they have received from the area that the group was recruiting combatants.

He added that this was bolstered by the information received from a teenager that government forces have rescued from the NPA in an encounter that happened a day earlier.

Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, the task force spokesperson for Social Media Affairs and Sectoral Concerns, said the SOS Network was created by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) similar to other militant organizations they have formed to gain power in Congress that now forms the Makàbayan Bloc composed of party-list groups Bayan Muna, Kabataan, ACT Teachers and Gabriela.

"Nagsisinungaling sila (SOS Network). Dito ipinakikita kung paano ang trato ng NPA sa mga IPs (They are lying. It shows how the NPA treats the IPs). Blatant use of children is a gross violation of IHL (International Humanitarian Laws)," Badoy said.

Earlier, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has recorded a total of 1,506 violations of IHL committed by the CPP-NPA-NDF just in the last decade, including the abduction of 544 children and forcing them to become “child warriors”, mostly from IPs.

On the other hand, Datu Constancio Duhac, the chieftain of the Lianga tribe, said while they were saddened by the unfortunate incident, they nonetheless thanked the military for respecting their customary laws by returning the bodies to their families and providing them a decent burial.

"Just like what they (soldiers) did to the daughter of (Eufemia) Cullamat," Duhac said, referring to Bayan Muna Party-list Rep.'s daughter who was an NPA combatant who was killed last year near the vicinity of the latest encounter.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144551

Safety of families gov’t's goal in ending communist terrorism

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): Safety of families gov’t's goal in ending communist terrorism (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Undersecretary Severo Catura, Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat Executive Director (PNA File photo)

The destruction of families, especially those of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), due to communist terrorist recruitment and radicalization, is the reason why the government is pushing hard to end the threat posed by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).

"This destruction of our families is actually what drives the state, our government to end the local communist armed conflict because it will always be our responsibility to quell all continuing threats to the right to life, liberty, and security of persons especially of our children in IP communities," said Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat Executive Director, Undersecretary Severo Catura, during the June 21 episode of "Tagged: Debunking Lies by Telling the Truth".

Catura said the government is very much appalled with the destruction of families in the IP communities when children there are taken away and dragged into a life of terrorism and violence by the CPP-NPA.

"The Lianga incident is a case that our former child combatants, parents of child combatants, and former NPA themselves have been trying to tell us for so long in their own desire to protect their communities from threats to their peace that unfortunately is not consistently carried by news reports, hence, atrocities by the perpetrators continue," said Catura, who is also National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) spokesperson for International Affairs, Peace Process, Human Rights Concerns.

He was referring to the three IP members, one of whom was a minor, who were killed in an armed encounter between government forces and NPA rebels in Sitio New Decoy, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga town on June 15.

"For so long they have been trying to tell us that their children have become so immersed in hate and extremist violence facilitated by front organizations that have been identified by our IP leaders today and by instruments like their training camps disguised as IP schools that are behind these immersions of indigenous children to hate and extremist violence. Note that this immersion had been used as gateways to introduce our children in the use of assault rifles and landmines like the landmines used to kill the Absalons in Masbate," he said.

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

"Likewise, we stand together with former child combatants, parents and families of child combatants, human rights defenders, civil society, and the (IPs) of Lianga in reiterating calls for the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) to return children to their families and for front organizations to refrain from taking children away from their families, away from their indigenous cultural communities," Catura said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144572

Eufemia Cullamat termite, threat to Manobo tribe: IP leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): Eufemia Cullamat termite, threat to Manobo tribe: IP leader (By Lade Jean Kabagani) 



Datu Rico Maca, IP Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur (PIA Caraga photo)

A representative of the indigenous peoples (IP) in Surigao del Sur lambasted Bayan Muna Rep. Eufemia Cullamat for turning her back on the Manobo tribe saying she is a threat to the IP communities.

Datu Rico Maca, IP Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, said
Cullamat was mum and never condemned the series of IP killings and violent attacks perpetrated by communist rebels against the tribal leaders.

"Last month, mayroong in-abduct na lima dito sa may bandang Carmen, Sitio Gacub, in-abduct ng NPA na hanggang ngayon hindi makita. Hindi man lang namin nakita iyong sentimyento at pag-support sa mga ganitong lawless incidents, lalo na iyon si Eufemia Cullamat (Last month, there are five tribal leaders abducted near Carmen, Sitio Gacub. Until now we haven't found them. We have not even heard sentiments against these lawless incidents, especially from Eufemia Cullamat)," Maca said during the June 21 episode of "Tagged: Debunking Lies by Telling the Truth."


He said Cullamat turned her back on the Manobo tribe after winning a seat in Congress.

"Noong time na nalaman namin na isa siya sa nominee doon sa Bayan Muna Party-list, grabe ang aming campaign na iboto siya. Iboto ang Bayan Muna Party-list dahil akala namin nandiyan siya makatulong pero ang ginagawa niya, siya iyong anay, siya iyong banta ng kinabukasan ng tribo dito sa aming probinsiya (When the time we were informed that she was nominated as representative of the Bayan Muna Party-list, we campaigned to vote for her. We voted the Bayan Muna Party-list because we thought she's there to help us, but she turned out to be the termite, the threat to our tribe here in the province)," he said.

Maca also sought the government’s help to hold groups and personalities accountable for exploiting IP situations and recruiting Manobo minors to engage in the armed movement.

Cullamat, he added, should be held accountable for turning back from protecting the rights of the IPs in the province.

"Talagang magpatulong kami sa ating pamahalaan na huwag na sanang—tulungan kami na kailangan mapanagot siya nitong pagiging biased niya (We are asking the government to help us to hold her accountable for being biased against us)," he said.

On Jan. 29, the League of Caraga Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (LCIPMR) in Surigao del Sur issued a resolution declaring Cullamat as ‘persona non grata’ in the ancestral domains of the Manobo, Mamanwa, Mandaya, Higaonon, and Banwaon Indigenous Cultural Communities/ Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) of Caraga Region.

Maca earlier said Caraga Region has been suffering from decades of manipulation, misrepresentation, and atrocities posed by the communist terrorist groups and their supporters.

Meanwhile, he called out militant organizations and other individuals, including Cullamat, for exploiting the IP situation such as the "intense firefight" between the government forces and the communist rebels in Barangay Diatagan, Lianga town on June 15.

"So, itong nangyari ngayon ma’am, medyo nagiging highlight sa ating social media pero ang panawagan namin, respetuhin iyong customary laws ng tribong Manobo (The incident became the highlight in the social media, but we are appealing to respect our customary laws of Manobo tribe)," he said.

Maca made the appeal after the Makabayan bloc lawmakers sought to investigate the deaths of Lenie Perez Rivas, 38; Willy Salinas Rodriguez, 20; and a 12-year-old minor during the armed encounter in Lianga.

The Manobo tribal council has an ongoing investigation into the armed encounter, he said.

"Mayroon kaming sariling justice system na dapat irespeto (We have our own justice system that has to be respected)," said Maca.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144581

Red-linked groups use IP schools to solicit foreign funds: guv

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): Red-linked groups use IP schools to solicit foreign funds: guv (By Lade Jean Kabagani)



Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel (Screen grab)

Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel disclosed that schools, run by supporters of communist terrorist groups, are being used to solicit international donations.

Pimentel said the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), Inc. and the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) have been used as the "milking cows" of the communist groups and their legal front organization to generate foreign funding.

He said groups of indigenous people (IP) are being brought to the said schools for evacuation by the communist-linked organizations whenever there are skirmishes between the military forces and the New People's Army (NPA) in Surigao del Sur.


"Nagtaka ako, bakit pati mga taga-Bukidnon, taga-Misamis dito umabot rito na wala naman silang pakialam. Iyon pala, ang hinihintay nila, ang mga darating na mga foreigner para magbigay ng ayuda sa kanila, magbigay ng donation sa kanila in dollars through mga NGO (I wonder why even those residents of Bukidnon and Misamis were brought here, they have nothing to do with it. So I thought, they were waiting for the aid, donations (in dollars) are pouring in from incoming foreigners through non-government organizations)," he lamented.

Pimentel has been questioning why Bayan Muna Rep. Eufemia Cullamat resisted registering the schools with the Department of Education (DepEd) for accreditation.

"Ang hiling ko lang naman sa kanila, kung legal iyang eskuwelahan na iyan, bakit ayaw nila magpa-accredit sa DepEd? (My only request to them is, if that school is legal, why don't they let the DepEd accredit the schools?)," Pimentel said during the June 21 episode of "Tagged: Debunking Lies by Telling the Truth."

The governor has ordered the closure of the TRIFPSS and the ALCADEV.

"Kaya isinara ko iyong esluwelahan, naglagay kami ng alternative school diyan, naglagay kami ng (That's why I shut down the schools, we put up alternative schools in there, we set up) temporary school building, which is accredited (by the) DepEd curriculum," he said.

Both schools are also believed to be influenced by the communist groups and serve as recruitment haven for the NPA rebels.

The closure of the schools, followed by the opening of two DepEd accredited IP schools, believed to be the reason why Jumar Bucales, a former Indigenous Peoples Mandatory (IPMR) in Lianga town, was brutally killed by NPA rebels in October last year.

Pimentel recalled that Cullamat, who belongs to the Manobo tribe and herself a native of Lianga, is among those who opposed the construction and development of the DepEd-accredited IP schools in the area.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144585

US gov’t pleased with postponed VFA termination: envoy

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2021): US gov’t pleased with postponed VFA termination: envoy (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez (File photo)

The United States government was pleased that President Rodrigo Duterte decided to postpone the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement, raising hopes that the agreement will continue.

"Of course, we're very happy about that, as you know both countries have sat down and I wouldn't really call it a negotiation but clarifications of the terms of agreement which was completed," Philippine Ambassador to US Jose Manuel Romualdez said in a Malacañang briefing.

Duterte relayed his decision to suspend the termination last June 14 while he studies and both sides address his concerns about some aspects of the security pact.

Hoping for its continuation, Romualdez underscored that the VFA had been one of the many aspects of the "very important" Philippine-US bilateral relations.

"I’m one of those who believe that it’s really important for us because it’s mutually beneficial anyway. To be honest about it, the VFA I think has benefitted our military of which Secretary (Delfin) Lorenzana has confirmed on several occasions. We are hoping this will continue and of course, the US government, especially the US military establishment is very pleased with this development that the president has extended it for another six months,” he said.

"We're hoping that it will perhaps be better than it ever was in terms of the kind of agreement that we had with them and (that) it will be mutually beneficial for both our militaries," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1144574

CPP/CIO: On Duterte’s suspension of VFA abrogation

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 15, 2021): On Duterte’s suspension of VFA abrogation

MARCO VALBUENA
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 15, 2021



Malacañang’s announcement that it has suspended the abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) only means that Duterte wants to continue using the renegotiations to wring more military aid from the United States to prop up his regime.

Duterte wants to use the US objective of stationing troops in the Philippines as leverage to demand more fighter planes, attack helicopters, bombs, cannons, artillery and bullets to prop up his tyrannical and terrorist regime.

In doing so, Duterte is putting a price tag on the country’s sovereignty and right against foreign military intervention. This is his “pera pera lang iyan” foreign policy.

The CPP welcomes the filing of the Philippine Human Rights Act by US Rep. Susan Wild that seeks to suspend US military aid to the Duterte government in the face of rampant cases of human rights abuses.

The CPP reiterates the patriotic demand of the Filipino people to abrogate all unequal military treaties with the US, including the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement, the VFA and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

The Party calls on the Filipino people to stand firmly for the country’s sovereignty and fight against foreign military intervention and push for the removal of all US military facilities from Philippine soil, as well as the dismantling of all Chinese military installations in the West Philippine Sea.

https://cpp.ph/statements/on-dutertes-suspension-of-vfa-abrogation/

CPP/NPA-Agusan del Norte: PNP, legitimate target sa NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 16, 2021): PNP, legitimate target sa NPA

DIWA HABAGAT
SPOKESPERSON
NPA-AGUSAN DEL NORTE
NORTHEAST MINDANAO REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

JUNE 16, 2021



Nahimong usa sa mga espesyal nga target sa NPA si PCol. Canelo Fuentes a former Butuan City Director sa PNP sa nahimong pagreyd patay sa laing duha ka Police nga sila si Msgt. Sherwin Roy Cajutol ug Corporal Koki Libot. Ug laing usa pa, si Police Alan Sarsate.

Nahitabo kagahapon June 15 , 2021 mga 6:37 sa buntag, sa may Purok-5 Tagulaje-Brgy. Antongalon, Butuan City-sulod mismo sa farm ni Mr Fuentes.

Mga kaso sa Paglapas sa Tawhanong Katungod niini nga Opisyal ug mga Police sulod sa ilang serbisyo.

1. Aktibong Instrumento ang PNP sa pagpatuman sa anti-Rebolusyonaryong Kampanya sa Rehimen sama sa anti drug war, Martial law, ATL ug NTF-ELCAC. Daghang nabiktima mga inocenteng sibilyan sa extrajudicial killings ug trumped-up nga mga kaso.

Hulagway lang sa disperadong acto ug pagkahugno na sa sistema sa hustisya sa nasud ug sa hingtungdang rehiyon ug syudad.

2. Responsable usab ang maong opisyal sa daghan ug sunodsunod nga demolisyon sa puluy-anan sa mga kabus sa dakbayan ug pagpangdakop sa mga gagmay paninda o mga sidewalk vendors. Kakambyo sa interes sa mga kapitalista.

3. Pagpangilog og yuta ug gikonbert sa kagamitan sa kapitalistang negosyo.

Lain pa:

1. Pagpasiugda og mga sugal sa derby/sabong sa manok diha mismo sa iyang farm.

2. Paglapas sa health protocol taliwala sa pagpig-ot sa mobility sa katawhan sa covid19.

3. Tigpandakop nakalapas sa health protocol, city ordinance ug tig-implemetar sa taas nga multa sa mga nakalapas apan exempted ang kaugalingon.

4. Nahimong tinubdan sa panggwarta ang maong sugal. Nagmulta pa kunuhay sa madakpan 30 mil nga kantidad. Bag-o ang pagreyd with fire sa mga sibilyang nagbuwang sa sitio luksohon sa Barangay Los Angeles usa sa mga baryo sa Butuan city.

Dili tinuod nga lilong sa kahibalo ni Police Regional Director Romeo Carramat Jr. ang tanan, imposible nga wala siyay monitor niini. Hinuon iya kining gikonsente! Kamatuoran, nagtambong siya sa birthday ni Mr. Fuentes sa farm nahitabo bulan sa Mayo, daghan silang mga police ang nagderby adto nga higayon mismo.

Sa makausa pa, Magsilbi kining warning sa mga opisyal sa gobyerno sa syudad ug sa tanang anaa sa serbisyo ug ahensya nga aktibong nagakomitar sa paglapas sa katungod sa katawhang Agusanon-

Ang AFP, PNP, CAA nga nagmatinud-anong nisunod sa kabangis nga mando ni GRP President Rodrigo Roa Duterte -walay duha-duha ang NPA nga mo-implementar usab og kabangis batok kanila.

Pagtubag kini sa pangayo sa HUSTISYA sa daghang sibilyang biktima, batok sa buta nga pagsunod sa PNP sa Terror Acts sa Rehimeng USDu30 batok sa Katawhan ug Tibuok Rebolusyonaryong Kalihukan.

Kanunay gidala sa NPA-Agusan Del Norte ang interes sa masang Caraganon. Kabahin sila sa masang naghago ug timugna sa katilingban!

Mabuhi ang Rebolusyon!

Mabuhi ang Masa sa katawhan!

Mabuhi ang Partido Komunista sa Pilipinas! Mabuhi ang New People’s Army!

https://cpp.ph/statements/pnp-legitimate-target-sa-npa/

CPP/CIO: Expose AFP lies to cover-up the murder of civilians

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 19, 2021): Expose AFP lies to cover-up the murder of civilians

MARCO VALBUENA
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 19, 2021



The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is weaving lies to cover up the murder of three civilians in Surigao del Sur by its fascist armed troops last Tuesday.

On June 15 at around 1 p.m., local civilians Willy Rodriguez, Lenie Rivas and 12-year old Angel Rivas were mowed down by gunfire by armed troops of the AFP’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion and 48th IB at Sitio Manluy-a, Km. 18, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. According to their families, their bodies were mangled, and Angel’s face was beyond recognition. She was believed to have been raped. Her genitals were torn.

Willy, Lenie and Angel were part of a group of abaca strippers who took a break from work and were about to get some snacks from a nearby store when they were fired upon indiscriminately by the 3rd SFB troops. To justify their crime, the AFP soldiers claimed the three were killed in a firefight with the NPA. They even concocted stories of recovered firearms and explosives.

Relatives of the victims and local residents attest to the fact that the three were their neighbors. Angel was a student at the local community school. The adults were both members of Mapasu, a lumad community organization opposed to mining operations in their ancestral lands, which the AFP has maliciously red-tagged as an “NPA front.” Angel was enrolled in the DepEd alternative learning system and was trying to earn fare money to bring her requirements to school.

The AFP is promoting the lie that the three were NPA fighters in a vain attempt to cover up their crimes. This lie is being propagated by top officers of the 4th ID and other higher military officers. In doing so, they are, in fact, promoting and abetting their men for committing crimes and grave violations of international humanitarian law.

Military officers have been repeatedly weaving the lie of “encounter with the NPA” in the same way that the police have used the false “nanlaban” story to cover up their killings of unarmed people. Just a week ago, the PNP and AFP made the same claim to make it appear that civilians Antonio Poligrates, Ailyn Bulalacao and Ramon Brioso, who were abducted and killed by police, were members of the NPA.

Crimes of murder, torture and rape, have long been part of the arsenal of the AFP in their dirty war against the people, particularly against the peasant masses and minority people, who have been fighting for their rights against land grabbing. People are being subjected to these crimes to make them submit to the power of the fascist soldiers and police.

All democratic forces must demand a stop to these crimes and lies. We urge all victims of military and police killings falsely accused of being NPA fighters, or their relatives and friends, to expose the lies and demand justice.

https://cpp.ph/statements/expose-afp-lies-to-cover-up-the-murder-of-civilians/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Liham Pakikiisa sa Pamilya’t Kaanak nina Police Patrolman Alex Antioquia at Police Patrolman Jeremie Alcantara

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 20, 2021): Liham Pakikiisa sa Pamilya’t Kaanak nina Police Patrolman Alex Antioquia at Police Patrolman Jeremie Alcantara

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 20, 2021


Batid namin ang inyong nagpapatuloy na pagdadalamhati sa pagkasawi ng inyong mga minamahal sa buhay. Higit anupaman, layunin ng liham na ito ang ipaabot ang aming pakikiisa sa inyong hangaring papanagutin ang AFP-PNP, at ang kanilang punong kumander na si Duterte sa kanilang walang katapusan at brutal na gera kontramamamayan. Ilang libong buhay na ang nasayang dahil sa madugong kapritso ni Duterte. Sila ang nagtutulak ng gera at patayan ngunit ang mga tulad nina Pat. Antioquia at Pat. Alcantara ang kanilang ipinapain sa mga operasyong militar at sakyada. Sila ang nananawagan ng kill, kill, kill pero ang mga rank and file na pulis at militar ang napipilitang magsagawa ng marurumi nilang mga krimen. Ginawa silang mga private goons at protektor ng mga negosyo at mapaminslang proyekto. Ginawa silang mga mamamatay-tao ng kapwa nila mahihirap. Hindi nakapagtatakang marami sa hanay ng mga pulis at militar sa rehiyon ang mababa na ang morale at siya pa mismong nangungumbinsi sa masang huwag magpaloko sa mga programa ng gubyerno. Ang iba, tuluyan nang umaalis sa serbisyo. Hindi na nila masikmura ang brutalidad at terorismo sa loob ng kanilang hanay.

Alam naming hindi rin lingid sa inyong kaalaman ang kabulukan ng institusyong pinagsisilbihan nila. Nababalitaan ninyo ang kaliwa’t kanang mga pangyayari ng brutalidad, kawalang pananagutan, korupsyon at pangkalahatang kultura ng di-makataong karahasan sa PNP at AFP. Nababalitaan ninyo kung ilang libo na ang napatay sa mga operasyong Tokhang at PNP Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO).

Alam ninyong malalaki ang bitak sa pagitan ng mga upisyal ng pulis at militar dahil sa mga tunggalian sa kikbak at kurakot. Alam ninyong kaya walang nag-reinforce na militar para matulungan ang napapalabang PNP unit sa Dumagmang noong Marso 29 ay dahil nangibabaw sa mga upisyal-militar ang banggaan ng kanilang interes sa nakukuhang kikbak sa pagmimina na dumulo sa pagpapabaya at kawalang koordinasyon ng dalawang yunit.

Ayon nga sa inyo, maihahalintulad ang nangyari kina Pat. Antioquia sa trahedya ng Mamasapano at tunay nga, tulad sa sinapit ng 44 na elemento ng Special Action Force, hanggang sa kasalukuya’y wala pang napapanagot na mga upisyal ng PNP at Phil. Army sa nangyari kina Pat. Antioquia. Mistulang walang inaabot na pag-usad at malamang ay imbestigasyon lamang sa papel ang binuong Special Investigation Task Group Dumagmang na umano’y susuri kung may nangyaring kapabayaan sa naganap na reyd.

Lumalapit kami sa inyo ngayon sa pagnanais na makasama at makaisa namin kayo sa pagpapanagot sa rehimeng US-Duterte at buong institusyon ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU sa pagtataguyod at pagpapalubha ng kultura ng karahasan at terorismo ng estado. Huwag na nating hayaang mayroon pang madagdag sa bilang ng kanilang mga mersenaryo. Huwag nating hayaang mayroon pa silang isabak sa mga wala namang katuturang operasyong militar na pumipinsala sa mga komunidad ng mga gaya rin nating mahihirap. Hindi matatapos ang armadong tunggalian sa ating bansa hanggat hindi natutugunan ang mga makatwiran nating kahingian. Hanggat walang tunay na kaunlaran at kapayapaan para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Sana ay makasabay namin kayo sa labang ito. Laging bukas ang aming pinto para sa mga nagnanais ng tunay at makabuluhang pagbabago sa lipunan.

https://cpp.ph/statements/liham-pakikiisa-sa-pamilyat-kaanak-nina-police-patrolman-alex-antioquia-at-police-patrolman-jeremie-alcantara/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Lihim na narcolist ng mga NPA at drug lord, lisensya ng rehimeng US-Duterte para sa malawakang pamamaslang at pag-aresto

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 20, 2021): Lihim na narcolist ng mga NPA at drug lord, lisensya ng rehimeng US-Duterte para sa malawakang pamamaslang at pag-aresto

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 20, 2021



Kung anu-anong kalokohan na naman ang lumalabas sa bibig ni Duterte! Matapos ang malisyosong paratang na mga drug lord ang NPA, binawi ni Duterte ang una niyang pahayag na maglalabas ng ala-narcolist ng mga lider ng NPA at mga drug lord sa batayan ng pambansang seguridad. Hindi ito kaiba sa mga dati nang paratang ng pasistang diktador na nagbibigay lisensya sa kanyang mga alagad na malawakang pumaslang at mang-aresto ng sinumang pinaghihinalaan nilang mayroong kaugnayan sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan at sa droga. Sa ganitong pahayag, pinatutunayan lamang ni Duterte na lahat ay target ng pasistang estado. Dahil mayroon umanong lihim na listahan ng mga, maaari itong arbitraryong dagdagan batay sa kapritso ng mga mersenaryo.

Para sa pasistang estado, ang pambansang seguridad ay walang iba kung hindi seguridad ng mga naghaharing-uri. Para saan ba ang paggawa at paglilihim ng gayong mga listahan kung hindi para manakot at pigilan ang sinumang tuligsain ito at igiit ang kanilang mga karapatan at kawalan ng anumang pagkakasala. Napakadali para kay Duterte at sa kanyang juntang militar na walang karaka-rakang mamaratang na kriminal ang sinumang naisin nila. Ganito ang estilong ginagamit nila sa paglulunsad ng malawakang crackdown laban sa mga progresibo at makabayang hanay. Ilan sa mga naging biktima na sa rehiyon ay ang mga iligal na inarestong gaya nina Dan Balucio, Sasah Sta. Rosa, Nelsy Rodriguez at Ramon Rescovilla. Gayundin ang daan-daan pang pinaslang na, kung hindi ‘nanlaban’ ay pinalalabas namang kasapi ng NPA.

Totoo nga ang kasabihan: sinumang tumuturo sa iba ay mayroong tatlong daliring nakaturo sa sarili. Sa halos anim na taong pamamaratang at pang-aatake ng rehimeng US-Duterte sa lahat na lamang ng nangangahas magsalita laban sa kanya, hindi na kailangan ng sambayanan ng kung ano pang narcolist para malaman kung sino ang tunay na drug lord at terorista: si Duterte, ang kanyang juntang militar at ang kanyang mga lokal at imperyalistang amo.

Mahigpit na nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa masang Bikolanong manatiling matatag at higit pang palakasin ang kanilang pagkakaisa upang labanan ang pasismo. Dapat ubos-kayang labanan ang lahat ng tangka ni Duterte na lubusin ang natitira niyang panahon sa pwesto upang mapalawig ang kanyang kapangyarihan at matakasan ang kanyang pananagutan sa mamamayan. Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Duterte!

https://cpp.ph/statements/lihim-na-narcolist-ng-mga-npa-at-drug-lord-lisensya-ng-rehimeng-us-duterte-para-sa-malawakang-pamamaslang-at-pag-aresto/

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Mga peke at sapilitang pinasukong NPA, gatasan ng kurakot ng mga upisyal-militar

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 20, 2021): Mga peke at sapilitang pinasukong NPA, gatasan ng kurakot ng mga upisyal-militar

MA. ROJA BANUA
SPOKESPERSON
NDF-BICOL
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 20, 2021



Walang kasawa-sawa ang 9th IDPA sa gasgas nilang palabas ng mga pinaparadang sumukong NPA. Habang tumatagal, lalong nagiging eksaherado at desperado ang mga eksena. Mula noong nakaraang buwan hanggang ngayon, sunud-sunod ang ilinalabas nilang balita ng daan-daan umanong sumukong NPA sa prubinsya ng Camarines Sur, Sorsogon at Masbate. Maging ang tatlong magsasakang mula sa Brgy. San Francisco, Donsol, Sorsogon na biktima ng iligal na detensyon ay pinalabas nilang kusang-loob umanong nagpabilanggo.

Masigasig ang militar sa paggawa ng ganitong mga palabas dahil isa sa pinakamalalaking gatasan nila ngayon ng kurakot ang programang pagpapasukong pinasisimunuan ng National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Libu-libo ang naibubulsa ng kanilang mga upisyal-militar sa bawat isang pangalang naidaragdag sa listahan ng mga sumuko umanong NPA.

Habang nagpapakabusog sa kurakot, kinakain naman ng kani-kanilang mga konsensya ang mga rank-and-file na militar na siyang nagsasagawa ng mga operasyon sa baba. Marami sa kanila ang nangungumbinsi na mismo sa masa na huwag papayag na pumirma sa mga blangkong papel o kaya ay mailagay sa kung anu-anong mga listahang pinakakalat ng militar. Ang mga listahang ito, na madalas umano ay pinalalabas nilang para sa relief o kaya ay census, ang siyang pinagkukunan nila ng mga pangalang ipampupuno sa quota at ipaparadang mga sumukong NPA.

Wala na ngang humpay ang paglala ng pambansang krisis dulot ng pandemyang Covid-19, korupsyon at pandarambong pa ang inaatupag ng mersenaryong hukbo at NTF-ELCAC. Tiyak na nakikisawsaw din sa limpak-limpak na pondong ito ang pangkating Duterte at iba pang mga burukrata kapitalistang naghahabol ng pondo para sa nalalapit na eleksyong 2022.

Nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa masang Bikolano na ibayong palakasin ang patuloy na paglalantad sa negosyong pagpapasuko ng 9th IDPA, AFP-PNP-CAFGU at NTF-ELCAC sa ilalim ng paghahari ng pasistang si Duterte. Dapat ipanawagan ang paglipat ng pondo sa pasismo tungo sa mga sosyoekonomikong programang tunay na pakikinabangan ng mamamayan. Ipanawagan din ang tuluyang pagbuwag sa walang katuturang NTF-ELCAC na pinagpupugaran ng mga sagadsaring reaksyunaryo. Higit sa lahat, ibayong magkaisa at ibagsak ang terorista at pahirap na rehimeng US-Duterte.

https://cpp.ph/statements/mga-peke-at-sapilitang-pinasukong-npa-gatasan-ng-kurakot-ng-mga-upisyal-militar/

CPP/NDF-Eastern Visayas: Int’l indictment of Duterte’s drug war one of the reasons why his criminal regime treads the path of defeat

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jun 21, 2021): Int’l indictment of Duterte’s drug war one of the reasons why his criminal regime treads the path of defeat

NDF-EASTERN VISAYAS
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JUNE 21, 2021



Read in: Waray

The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas welcomes with the Filipino people the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor to request investigation into Rodrigo Duterte’s mass murder in the name of his drug war. This is a step towards achieving justice for the families of up to 30,000 victims of the state-sanctioned Oplan Tokhang. It is a scathing indictment of the vicious Duterte regime by the international community. It is also a step towards holding Duterte accountable for one of his many crimes against the people, for which he must be ousted from power.

The ICC serves as a court of last resort for victims of states that are unwilling to prosecute those who have committed crimes against humanity. Relatives of drug war victims in the Philippines have resorted to seeking legal redress from the ICC because the local courts that are under Duterte’s bidding have failed to, and because the state through Duterte’s “kill everyone” remarks have sanctioned the mass murder against alleged drug peddlers.

Duterte with his spokesperson Harry Roque inadvertently show themselves stupid by playing up the “specter” of communism to defend Duterte against widespread public condemnation. Duterte is doing everything he can so that he will stay in power and not be sentenced by the ICC as a murderous, genocidal, fascist, and morally-bankrupt tyrant. This includes more killings, all-out war, bribery, charter change, manipulating the 2022 elections, and staging a “no-election” scenario.

Oplan Tokhang is only one of the many crimes which the Filipino people hold Duterte accountable for. The people accuse him of grave human rights violations in connection to his drug war and to his all-out war against the revolutionary movement. He has made a private army out of the AFP-PNP to kill and intimidate his critics, and to eliminate his family’s rivals to monopoly of the illegal drug trade.

Duterte has betrayed the country twice over by kowtowing to Chinese interests, especially by giving way to China’s occupation of the West Philippine Sea and by continuing the Philippines’ economic, political and military subservience to US imperialism. He terminated the peace negotiations with the NDFP and perpetuated the exploitation and oppression of the people under the big landlords, compradors and foreign capitalists.

Duterte has allowed the spread of Covid-19 into the country by letting in 500,000 Chinese nationals despite the threat of the virus. He emaciated budget allocations for health measures against the pandemic and for economic aid for the poor, while swindling billions of public funds to line his, his loyalists’ and his generals’ pockets. He has plunged the national economy into further debt amounting to almost P11 trillion in the name of pandemic response, but to no avail as cases continue to rise in the provinces.

By turning himself into an international pariah, Duterte is becoming all the more isolated and the Filipino people have more than enough reasons to fight his regime. Duterte’s schemes to remain in power will certainly fail.

The people must exhaust all means, both legal and illegal, to hold him accountable for his crimes and to put an end to his regime’s exploitation and oppression of the people through his corruption, treachery, fascism, and plunder. They must arouse, organize, and mobilize millions to fight the fascist terrorist Duterte, remove him from power, and pursue a path towards genuine democracy and justice.

https://cpp.ph/statements/intl-indictment-of-dutertes-drug-war-one-of-the-reasons-why-his-criminal-regime-treads-the-path-of-defeat/