Kalinaw News: Northern Luzon Command Chief pays exit call on WestMinCom Commander

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 18, 2021): Northern Luzon Command Chief pays exit call on WestMinCom Commander

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – November 19, 2021

Lt. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos, Jr., Commander of the Northern Luzon Command paid an exit call on Western Mindanao Command Chief, Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr. on the morning of November 18, 2021. Lt. Gen. Burgos, Jr. was welcomed with full military honors rendered by the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources of the command.

He was then received by Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. at the Laong Laan Hall at Camp Navarro, Calarian, this city. They were joined by Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, WestMinCom’s Deputy Commander for Operations; Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Deputy Commander for Administration; Col. Randolph Rojas, Commander of Joint Task Force Zamboanga; and the unified command staff led by Col. Elmer Suderio.

Lt. Gen. Burgos, Jr. expressed his gratitude to Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. for the warm welcome extended by Team WestMinCom during his last visit to the command. The 3-star general will be compulsorily retired from the military service effective December 1, 2021. Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. extended his felicitations to the retiring general and said, “Your remarkable accomplishments will always live on. We are very proud of you”. The two seasoned generals are both members of the Philippine Military Academy “Maringal” Class of 1988.

Prior to the arrival of Lt. Gen. Burgos, Jr., the command first welcomed Atty. Micaela Rosales, Legal Officer of San Miguel Corporation. Foyer honors led by Maj. Frances Vitug, the Judge Advocate General Officer of the command was rendered to the visitor. Atty. Rosales was simultaneously received together with NolCom Commander by Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr.

Atty. Rosales assured that San Miguel Corporation is always willing to extend support to all the endeavors of the Western Mindanao Command. Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. thanked Atty. Rosales for taking the time to visit the command. “I am looking forward to working with you on projects to be implemented within my area of responsibility soon,” the commander said.

The activities during the call of the two distinguished visitors were conducted with strict adherence to the minimum health standards.

[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/northern-luzon-command-chief-pays-exit-call-on-westmincom-commander/

Kalinaw News: Military sustains peace campaign as more communist terrorists yield

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 19, 2021): Military sustains peace campaign as more communist terrorists yield

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – November 19, 2021

Two more communist terrorist group members laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law in Sultan Kudarat on November 17, 2021. According to Western Mindanao Command Chief, Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., the two were members of the SDG Platoon (Cherry Mobile) of the Sub Regional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region.

The surrendered personalities, whose identities are withheld for security reasons, submitted themselves to the CSP team and intelligence operatives of the 37th Infantry Battalion at Barangay Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. They handed over their firearms, a cal. 30 M1 Garand rifle and a cal. 30 M1 Carbine rifle.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central commended the troops of the 37th Infantry Battalion for their laudable accomplishments particularly in bringing the misled members of the society back to the bright side. “We have gained their trust and most of them are now willing to abandon their armed struggle. We attribute this success to our partners and stakeholders,” Maj. Gen. Uy stated.

It can be recalled that on November 9, four members of the same group yielded to the same battalion. The former rebels handed over one cal. 22 rifle, one 12-gauge pistol, one cal. 45 Colt M1911 pistol, and one rifle grenade. Also, 20 CTG supporters surrendered to the 57th Infantry Battalion still in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on November 14. They are a diverse group of individuals deceived by the terror group.

Lt. Col. Allen Van Estrera, Commander of 37IB disclosed that the series of Community Support Programs (CSPs) conducted together with other government and private organizations convinced the former rebels to lay down their firearms and return to the folds of the law.

Since January 2021 to date, JTF Central has reported a total of 143 surrenders of CTG personalities. 114 of the 143 were regular members while 29 were supporters of the communist terrorist group.

“Our troops remain steadfast in ending terrorism in our area of operations for our future generations. We strongly believe that it is better to end terrorism in a peaceful way and without single bloodshed. We are hopeful that more terrorists will decide to withdraw support, return to the folds of the law, and be with their families during the health crisis,” Maj. Gen. Rosario, Jr. said.

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

https://www.kalinawnews.com/military-sustains-peace-campaign-as-more-communist-terrorists-yield/

Kalinaw News: PH Army hosts 10th Steering Committee Meeting with USARPAC

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 18, 2021): PH Army hosts 10th Steering Committee Meeting with USARPAC



FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army and United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) alternately hosted the 10th Steering Committee Meeting (SCM) on November 17 to 18, 2021 at Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila.

The virtual SCM is a planning activity in preparation for the conduct of the 10th Executive Steering Group Meeting between the Commanding General Philippine Army and the Commanding General USARPAC. The meeting also aimed to review activities for Calendar Years 2021 and 2022, and to deliberate and finalize bilateral activities and training for the year 2023.

USARPAC’s Col. Thomas Scott and the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans Col. Rommel Cordova led the two-day activity.

The Commanding General Philippine Army and the concurrent Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Andres C. Centino expressed his appreciation to the USARPAC and Philippine Army’s joint efforts in strengthening the military relations between the two countries.

“The Philippine Army is looking forward to more activities and training for both Armies in the future. As we continue to foster good relations with our counterparts from the USARPAC, we also expand our capabilities and lead our country towards true peace and development,” said Lt. Gen. Centino.

[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/ph-army-hosts-10th-steering-committee-meeting-with-usarpac/

Kalinaw News: Rebels Continue to Lose in Southern Mindanao; Ranking Rebels Surrender, Biggest Arms Cache Discovered

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 18, 2021): Rebels Continue to Lose in Southern Mindanao; Ranking Rebels Surrender, Biggest Arms Cache Discovered

MAWAB, DAVAO DE ORO – In a press conference hosted by the 1002nd Infantry Brigade, the 10ID in coordination with Region XII Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict at Malungon town, Sarangani province yesterday, November 17, 2021; MGen Ernesto C Torres Jr divulged to the media another batch of high ranking NPA leaders surrendered to the 10th Infantry AGILA Division and presented forty-six (46) high-powered firearms that were recovered in its area of responsibility just this November alone.

MGen Torres named the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) leader as alias Borjack, the Secretary of the Guerilla Front Alip and at the same time Secretary of the Regional Operations Command (ROC) of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) who surrendered last November 9 to the troops of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade with the participation of 39IB, 73IB, and 102MICO. Likewise, he also mentioned Jocy Villaruel Papasin alias Domai, Secretary of the Weakened Guerilla Front 18 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) who surrendered to the 66IB under the 701st Infantry Brigade. Another high-ranking NPA leader was also present during the press conference in the name of Gilberto Garcia Colita alias Jhonny, Commander of the Weakened Guerilla Front 18, SMRC who surrendered on November 12.

Moreover, a total of forty-six (46) high-powered firearms, one (1) Improvised Explosive Device (IED), and one (1) homemade shotgun were also presented to the media that were recovered by the said two infantry brigades for this month alone. Fourteen (14) of which came from the 701st Infantry Brigade through the series of surrenders from the NPA units in Davao Oriental and Agusan Del Sur.

Meanwhile, the other thirty-two (32) high-powered firearms were gained by the 1002nd Brigade to include one (1) caliber 30 machine gun through the discovery of four (4) arms caches from November 11 – 16 that was made possible due to the full cooperation of the recently surrendered and former high-ranking CTG leaders.

Furthermore, MGen Torres reported to the media that for this year alone, 10ID dismantled two (2) Guerilla Fronts and one (1) Pulang Bagani Command.

MGen Torres attributed the above victories to BGen Potenciano C Camba and Col Oliver C Maquiling, Brigade Commanders of the 1002nd and 701st Infantry Brigades, respectively; and to the battalion commanders together with their company commanders and platoon leaders who are the cutting edge of the Philippine Army.

He also reiterated that this accomplishment of the 10ID is through the active participation of different government agencies and of the people through the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“With this recent undertaking of your Army Infantry Division, we can say that the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) are continuously losing every battle they face against the government and the Filipino people. While the CTG are losing in armed operations, we on the other hand are winning the hearts and the minds of the people. Thus, their decimation in the 10ID area of responsibility is inevitable. They will cease to exist in this Southern Mindanao and eventually in our country.” MGen 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/rebels-continue-to-lose-in-southern-mindanao-ranking-rebels-surrender-biggest-arms-cache-discovered/

Kalinaw News: 11 more demoralized NPAs surrender to 88IB

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 18, 2021): 11 more demoralized NPAs surrender to 88IB

Maramag Bukidnon – 11 more demoralized NPAs surrender to 88IB including one (1) child-soldier of Guerilla Front Malayag, Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC2) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) voluntarily surrendered to the combined elements of 88th Infantry Battalion, Military Intelligence Battalion, and 3rd Infantry Battalion bringing along with the five (5) M16A1 Riffle, one (1) M203 Grenade Launcher, explosives and ammunitions at Headquarters 88IB, Barangay Poblacion, Maramag Bukidnon on November 17, 2021. The said surrender came as a result of the unit’s continued campaign against the said terrorist group in the mountainous areas of Pantaron Mountain Ranges, covering Malaybalay City, San Fernando, and Cabanglasan Bukidnon.

Micheal B Mantikinon alias KIMAY/DALLAS, 27 years old a Commanding Officer, Front Operational Command, with his communist party wife, Irish B Arcayan alias TRIXIE/AIAI, Political Instructor and nine (9) other decided to return to the folds of law after Ramil Banawan Alias MIGS, their front secretary, was apprehended by the elements of 88th Infantry Maringal Battalion at Mt. Kumong Tabanog, Sitio Lugayaran, Barangay Palacpacan, San Fernando Bukidnon on October 25, 2021.

According to Alias KIMAY, fatigue, hunger, lack of sleep and the desire to be with their families and loved ones were the other reasons he and his group decided to finally return to the folds of the law and abandon the armed struggle. They further disclosed that losing their leaders and the continuous focused military operation by the Philippine Army in their known guerilla bases had caused them to be always on the run, which prevented them from doing organizing works in their target barangays.

The 17-year-old minor member of the said group was turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of Quezon, Bukidnon to undergo interview and stress debriefing. The continuous recruitment of our youth to be child-soldier is a proof of CTG’s disrespect to Human Rights and a clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law.

Following the health protocol to prevent the spread of Covid-19 virus, the said personalities were subjected to Covid-19 Antigen-test with negative result.

LTC CHRISTIAN JAMES P VINGNO, Commanding Officer of 88IB in his statement said: I lauded the acts and decisions of Alias KIMAY and his members, who finally abandoned the Communist Terrorist Group. “The comprehensive conduct of Community Support Program (CSP) and the focused military operation of government troops have been instrumental in the rapid destruction of Guerilla Front Malayag. This is a clear indicator that we are near to ending this 52-year of local communist armed conflict.” The unit will continue to fulfill our mandate that is to protect and provide quality service to the People. Vingno 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/11-more-demoralize-npas-surrender-to-88ib/

Chinese Coast Guard vessels block, water cannon 2 PH supply boats near Ayungin Shoal in WPS

 Posted to the Palawan News (Nov 18, 2021): Chinese Coast Guard vessels block, water cannon 2 PH supply boats near Ayungin Shoal in WPS (By Celeste Anna Formoso)

Ayungin is an underwater shoal where the BRP Sierra Madre, a stranded Philippine Navy transport ship, serves as a detachment to military troops. (Photo by CSIS/AMTI)

Chinese Coast Guard vessels harassed two Philippine government vessels on a supply mission to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Tuesday, a statement released by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said.

Locsin, in a statement released early Thursday by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and citing a report by the Philippine armed forces’ Western Command (WESCOM), said the Chinese vessels “blocked and water cannoned” two Philippine supply boats while they were en route to the remote military outpost on November 16.

Locsin said the Philippines has already filed a diplomatic protest to Beijing about the incident and warned that the incident could trigger the country’s defense treaty with the United States.



“I have conveyed in the strongest terms to H.E. Huang Xilian, Ambassador of China, and to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Beijing our outrage, condemnation, and protest of the incident,” Locsin said.

“I reminded China that a public vessel is covered by the Philippine-United States Mutual Defense Treaty,” he added.

Locsin said Beijing’s failure to exercise self-restraint is a threat to the special relationship between the country and China, which President Rodrigo R. Duterte and President Xi Jin Ping have worked hard to nurture.

“The Philippines will continue to provide supplies to our troops in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal). We do not ask permission to do what we need to do in our territory,” Locsin said.

Manila has repeatedly protested Chinese actions against Philippine interests in the disputed area. According to the DFA, it filed some 211 notes verbales filed over Chinese actions in the South China Sea since the start of the Duterte administration.

https://palawan-news.com/chinese-coast-guard-vessels-block-water-cannon-2-ph-supply-boats-near-ayungin-shoal-in-wps/

Maritime expert says Chinese Coast Guard’s harassment is deliberate attempt to drive off PH forces from Ayungin Shoal

Posted to the Palawan News (Nov 18, 2021): Maritime expert says Chinese Coast Guard’s harassment is deliberate attempt to drive off PH forces from Ayungin Shoal (By Patricia Laririt and Celeste Anna Formoso)

BRP Sierra Madre (LT57) in Ayungin Shoal. (PN file photo)

Lawyer and expert on maritime affairs Jay Batongbacal said China Coast Guard’s (CCG) act of blocking the Philippine supply boats’ mission to bring food to military troops in Ayungin is a deliberate attempt to get them to abandon the shoal so more artificial islands can be built in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Batongbacal speculated that China may be intending to build additional artificial islands in the WPS, notably in Ayungin.

“Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal is a low-tide elevation that is indubitably part of the PH continental shelf and EEZ, as per the South China Sea (SCS) Arbitration. Only the PH has any lawful and legitimate right to determine and regulate activities on Ayungin Shoal. CN has absolutely no legal basis to claim any right over the shoal or to regulate/control what happens to it, who uses it, and who has access to it,” Batongbacal said.

“The CCG’s acts of blocking and using water cannon against the PH supply vessels constitute direct, unlawful interference in their free and safe navigation through the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

He explained that the act could cause a “potential collision,” and was in violation of the 1972 Collision Regulations, which are part of universally acknowledged international law, as well as its duty to respect and promote the safety of navigation and life at sea.

Batongbacal said the CN’s tactic of making it difficult, if not impossible, to continue the presence of the country’s force on Ayungin Shoal by preventing the shipment of food supplies to the isolated outpost is obvious proof of its goal of forcing the Philippines to willingly withdraw and/or leave the shoal.

Ayungin Shoal has long piqued CN’s interest, he said, and it is likely a part of the next objectives for occupancy and possible transformation into another artificial island.

“CN’s actions, coming just a few weeks after the conclusion of the latest meeting for the negotiation of the proposed ASEAN-China Code of Conduct, are evidence of bad faith and lack of sincerity in the ongoing COC negotiations.

The CCG’s unlawful actions demonstrate CN’s implementation of the new CCG Law, and prove that it can and will be used by CN against ships of other nations anywhere it wishes in the SCS,” he said.

“CN’s continued acts in contravention of international law in light of the SCS Arbitration make it internationally responsible for the consequences of its wrongful acts. It can no longer claim that it is in good faith in asserting supposed rights to Ayungin Shoal in light of the specific rulings of the SCS Arbitration on the identity, character, and rights over the shoal,” he added.

Resupply mission to continue

National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said the resupply mission to Filipino soldiers stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre detachment on Ayungin would continue despite fresh tensions in the West Philippine Sea caused by Chinese Coast Guard vessels harassing two Philippine supply boats.

Esperon also condemned the harassment which happened on November 16, stating they will ramp up “enforcements” in the area.

“We will continue the resupply [mission] and we do not have to ask the permission of anybody because that is within our territory,” the state-run Philippine News Agency (PNA) quoted Esperon, also chairperson of the National Task Force (NTF)-WPS, in telling press interviews.

We simply have to enforce, we have to condemn this and protest the incident simply because they are within our sovereign territory, and we have jurisdiction over the area in connection with, No. 1, the UNCLOS, and No. 2, the arbitral ruling, so that is why we are protesting it,” he added in a separate statement released by his office through the Western Command (WESCOM).

According to reports, three Chinese Coast Guard vessels fired water cannons on November 16 at two wooden-hulled Philippine supply boats, preventing them from delivering food and other items to military personnel stationed on the shoal.

Water cannons were fired at the supply boats Unaizah May 1 and Unaizah May 3, inflicting damage to their outriggers.

“They maneuvered and had to abort their resupply mission. But we will continue the resupply and we do not have to ask the permission of anybody because that is within our territory,” he said.

Due to the incident, both boats had to return to Puerto Princesa, 110 nautical miles from Ayungin.

Esperon said they hope Beijing would listen to their protest and back off.

“We hope that with our protest, they will also heed our calls for them to back off. We will send the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries [and Aquatic Resource], to support and, of course, enforce fisheries laws there in Ayungin Shoal,” he added.

“We have to file a protest. The DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) is filing the protest. We are very concerned of this development and that’s exactly why we have our national task force optimizing the deployment of our combined assets there and so after that DFA takes action sa diplomatic aspect,” Esperon said.

Unusual Chinese presence

Esperon said that more than a week before the incident, they were already wondering why China has an “unusual presence” near Ayungin.

He said only two Chinese maritime militia vessels were usually observed, but last week was different as 19 vessels were spotted near Ayungin and about 45 near Barangay Pag-asa Island, the seat of Kalayaan’s municipal government.

“Record number for the year. So, very aggressive sila — we are protesting that because that is part of our EEZ and those are low tide elevations, tulad ng Mischief Reef, low tide elevation iyon so nobody is supposed to be there. it is well within our EEZ. Some of the vessels remain there. hindi sila umaalis dyan, maaring mabawasan, but last week umabot sila ng 45, masyadong marami. Dati rati below 20, pero naging 45,” Esperon said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has already filed a diplomatic protest to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, calling the act by the Chinese Coast Guard vessels.

The DFA statement also cited the Philippines’ Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States, which can be triggered in the event of external threats to either country.

https://palawan-news.com/maritime-expert-says-chinese-coast-guards-harassment-is-deliberate-attempt-to-drive-off-ph-forces-from-ayungin-shoal/

Coast guard to beef up security operation in WPS with two new vessels

Posted to the Palawan News (Nov 18, 2021): Coast guard to beef up security operation in WPS with two new vessels

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) today launched its two 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRVs) at the Shimonoseki Shipyard in Japan, which are expected to boost patrols in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The vessels are part of the Department of Transportation’s (DoTr) Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) phase II.

The two units which are expected to be delivered to the country next year will become the PCG’s largest floating assets. Currently, the PCG’s biggest patrol vessel is the 83-meter off-shore patrol vessel BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) that was made in France.



The MRRV which were modeled after Japan Cost Guard’s Kunigami-class vessel have specifications that include 24 knots speed and 4,000 nautical miles endurance which gives it a capacity of longer patrol operations in the country’s vast maritime jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, Philippine Rise and the southern part of the country.

Undersecretary for Maritime, Admiral George V. Ursabia, Jr. said once commissioned, the two vessels will strengthen the PCG’s capabilities in terms of maritime search and rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations.

During the virtual launching ceremony, Ursabia who represented transportation secretary Arthur Tugade recognized the cooperation of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japanese government and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. For the modernization of PCG.

Meanwhile, PCG commandant Admiral Leopoldo Laroya thanked President Rodrigo Duterte and Tugade for the support they have given for the improvement of PCG’s capacity.

Laroya likewise ensured that the new vessels will be used to strengthen the security and safety as well as implementation of the rule of law within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines.

https://palawan-news.com/coast-guard-to-beef-up-security-operation-in-wps-with-two-new-vessels/

Red-tagged Davao City councilor dropped from Hugpong lineup

From MindaNews (Nov 18, 2021): Red-tagged Davao City councilor dropped from Hugpong lineup (By ANTONIO L. COLINA IV)

A city councilor seeking reelection under Hugpong ng Pagbabago-Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HNP-HTL) but was removed from the party’s official slate believed she is a victim of red-tagging by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

In a statement Wednesday, First District Councilor Pamela Librado said the NTF-ELCAC linked her to the communist movement.

Davao City Councilor Pamela Librado at a City Council session. Photo from her Facebook page

She said the task force labeled her as the “Gabriela personality,” participating in the elections “to support the establishment of migrant desks in the city’s first district purportedly used as front organizations.”

She called the allegations “baseless and malicious” and deprived her of an opportunity to defend herself.

Librado, however, said she might withdraw her candidacy for next year’s elections within the week.

“Rest assured that I will continue to discharge the functions of my office until the end of my term. My decision is a result of a consensus that while we have established our name and effectively infused our principle-based politics, the existing political realities are such that political parties dominate and could frustrate the will and voice of the majority,” she said.

In his statement, Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte said Librado was removed from HNP-HTL’s roster for the city council as the “party believes that their ideals are not in line with the political party’s vision for Davao City and the Philippines.”

The vice mayor substituted his sister, Mayor Sara Duterte, after the latter dropped her bid for reelection to run for vice president.

Librado said “the Librado brand of politics” espoused by her late father, labor leader Erasto “Noynoy” Librado who became councilor, has always been known for progressive and pro-people stance, defending the marginalized and oppressed.

“The progressive, pro-people brand of politics espoused by our late father…was consistently upheld by my mother and my sisters in the City Council by amplifying various issues affecting marginalized sectors, even if it meant going against the current,” she said.

The councilor admitted encountering challenges during her first year in the council for standing with the Lumads, particularly for recommending the need to investigate the closure of Lumad schools in the city, which cost her office the Annual Development Fund in 2019.

“I was treated as a pariah for speaking about the need to investigate the closure of Lumad schools in the City… Despite this, I made no complaints and continued with my work. I remained resolute in continuing with community-based programs such as organic urban gardening, health and vaccine education, mobile community kitchen, and several programs that help empower the community,” she added.

She said the lack of resources did not deter her office from pursuing the plans and programs for her constituents.

“This situation allowed us to showcase that plans and programs could be effectively implemented with all stakeholders’ participation, involvement, and empowerment,” she said.

Librado added that she stood her ground against demolition, martial law, and the Anti-Terror Bill, even if it meant going against the majority opinion of the the council.

“Though members of the SP (Sangguniang Panlungsod) and I didn’t see eye to eye on all issues, the discussion was principled. I was open to the HNP, the HTL, my fellow councilors, and the people of Davao about my plans, views, and projects. I hid behind no one, and I am proud to say that I accord anyone, regardless of differing principles, respect and decency. This is one of the core lessons my father, labor leader Nonoy Librado, taught me,” she said.

She said among the innovative and people-oriented legislation and programs they enacted were the establishment of the first “Lamayan ng Bayan” in Barangay 5A, the establishment of the mothers’ class, women’s lying-in clinic, anti-trafficking ordinance, no demolition policy without relocation with complete basic facilities, and the juvenile justice intervention mechanism.

“Likewise, our work included being the proponents of the first-ever Women’s Development Code and introducing necessary amendments to the Children’s Welfare Code of Davao City,” she added.

She said other legislations at the council authored by her sisters, former councilors Atty. Angela Librado-Trinidad and Atty. Leah Librado-Yap during their time included the barangay-based justice system, conflict resolution, juvenile welfare, women’s development.

“This included comprehensive services for reproductive health, victims of trafficking and crisis intervention, children’s rights and welfare, gender sensitivity, shelter and housing, and codification of existing city ordinances,” she added.

Aside from Librado, Councilor Nilo Abellera Sr. was also removed from the Hugpong slate.

Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio earlier said the fund allotted for the NTF-ELCAC could be used for vote-buying, citing that barangays declared as insurgency-free would receive P20 million each from its budget.

The task force received a P19-billion budget in 2021. The Department of Budget of Management proposed to increase the amount to P28 billion in 2022, but the Senate finance committee reduced it to P4 billion and reallocated the rest of the amount for COVID-19 response.

In a statement last week, the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform said that while it welcomes the Senate finance committee’s decision [to cut the NTF-ELCAC budget], “P4 billion is still a very substantial amount for an agency that, since its existence, espoused a culture of hatred and violence instead of a culture of dialogue and peace.”

“The NTF-ELCAC receives billions of pesos in the wake of President Duterte’s unilateral termination of peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in 2017. The government could have used these billions of pesos to address the basic needs of our people, especially in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, it raises an issue of transparency as even the Commission of Audit has admitted having trouble auditing the expenses,” the statement said.

“Contrary to its name to end local armed conflicts, the NTF-ELCAC becomes a hindrance to the promise of peace. The NTF-ELCAC is now the critical weapon in the total war against the so-called terrorists. This total war relies on the use of violent means. Consequently, it only increases the violations in human rights and international humanitarian law.” It added.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2021/11/red-tagged-davao-city-councilor-dropped-from-hugpong-lineup/

186 NPA allies to yield in Leyte town

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): 186 NPA allies to yield in Leyte town (By Sarwell Meniano)

ENDING ARMED CONFLICT. A soldier talks to residents of Hiluctogan village in Carigara, Leyte in an outreach program in this Aug. 16, 2021 photo. The village is one of the communities in the town where the New People's Army organized its supporters. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 93rd Infantry Battalion)

At least 186 supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Carigara, Leyte will surrender to authorities on Nov. 26 as a result of the government’s intensified effort to rid remote communities of the influence of the communist terrorist group.

The military is currently gathering personal information from surrenderers who will take their oath of allegiance to the government in a ceremony in Carigara, said Capt. Kaharudin Cadil, spokesperson of the Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade.

“Their surrender will block the NPA’s attempts to infiltrate remote communities. In the past months, we have been raising public awareness about the NPA’s deceptive recruitment,” Cadil said in a phone interview on Thursday.

Surrenderers are from the villages of Canlampay, Hiluctogan, Libo, Upper Hiraan, and Caghalo.

These five villages are among the 16 communities in Carigara covered by the Army’s retooled community support program (RCSP) since 2020.

The RCSP deployments aim to facilitate the government’s development programs by hearing the issues and concerns of vulnerable villagers and bringing them to the attention of concerned government offices.

Between 2019 to 2020, NPA remnants have moved to the mountains of Carigara after soldiers cleared the infiltrated areas in Ormoc City and Kananga, Leyte.

As mass supporters, these residents served as contacts and couriers where they provide and facilitate the procurement and delivery of supplies, food, and medicines.

They also act as the eyes and ears of the NPA by monitoring the presence of government forces in the area and identifying possible targets for recruitment, Cadil said.

The Philippine Army lauded the different Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in Carigara for helping the military in encouraging NPA allies to surrender.

The Philippine Army found out about efforts of the NPA to organize supporters in communities as disclosed by rebels who recently yielded to local authorities.

The event in Carigara will be the second mass surrender of staunch NPA allies in Leyte Island.

Carigara is about 48 kilometers northwest of Tacloban, the regional capital. It is a 2nd class town with a population of over 51,000.

On November 10, some 107 NPA supporters in the remote Somoje village in San Juan, Southern Leyte surrendered to the government.

In Itahos village, Bontoc, Southern Leyte, at least 59 NPA couriers, contact, and supporters will also surrender to local authorities on November 29.

The Communist Party of the Philippines - NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle 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/1160149

AFP joint exercise brings confidence to gov’t troops

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): AFP joint exercise brings confidence to gov’t troops (By Annabel Consuelo Petinglay)

AMPHIBIOUS OPS. An amphibious assault vehicle is showcased during the amphibious operation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Joint Exercise "DAGIT-PA" 05-2021 along the shorelines of Patnongon, Antique on Thursday (Nov. 18, 2021). Maj. Gen. Robert Dauz, commander of the Philippine Army Visayas Command, said the AFP troops are now more confident because of their interoperability exercise. (PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)

Government troops are now more confident in terms of securing the country as a result of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Joint Exercise “DAGIT-PA” 05-2021 held on Thursday.

"They will be going back to their assignments more equipped and confident now because of the exercise," Maj Gen. Robert Dauz, Philippine Army (PA) Commander of the Visayas Command, said in an interview.

“For our country, it is a great advantage because our AFP troops had learned as one,” he said.

As part of the AFP Joint Exercise “DAGIT-PA” (Da-sea, Git-air, and Pa-land), an amphibious operation was held off the waters of Patnongon, Antique.

Around 797 personnel from the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force joined the exercise aimed at strengthening their interoperability.

Before the exercise, the troops also took part in the artillery firing, close quarter battle, and military operation in urban terrain exercises at the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division in Jamindan, Capiz on Nov. 17, AFP Joint Exercise “DAGIT-PA” director Maj. Gen. Francisco Ariel Felicidario III said.

“Hopefully, our fellow Filipinos were able to see the capability of our troops in defending them and our nation whenever there is a threat,” he said.

During the joint exercise, they incorporated the lessons learned during the Zamboanga and Marawi siege, Felicidario said.

Should the same situation happen, they would know what to do and they can immediately respond to restore security and peace in the country, he added.

Felicidario also thanked AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Andres Centino for allowing them to have their joint exercise in Patnongon.

The province of Antique was chosen for the amphibious exercise because of its long coast since 15 of the province’s 18 towns are coastal municipalities, said Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

Gov. Rhodora Cadiao, who came to witness the joint exercise, said the provincial government gave all-out support to the activity.

“We also experienced a grand show of force of the AFP,” she said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160194

205 new BARMM cops start internal security ops training

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): 205 new BARMM cops start internal security ops training (By Edwin Fernandez)

INTERNAL SECURITY TRAINING. A total of 205 novice police officers started Thursday (Nov. 18) their six months Basic Internal Security Operation Course (BISOC) inside Camp S. K. Pendatun, the headquarters of the PRO-BARMM in Parang, Maguindanao. Col. Pablo Labra II (inset), the PRO-BARMM deputy director for administration, has reminded the program trainees of their sworn duty to serve the people to the best of their capability. (Photo courtesy of PRO-BARMM)

CAMP SK PENDATUN, Maguindanao – Some 205 novice police officers here began on Thursday their six months Basic Internal Security Operation Course (BISOC) to prepare them for election duties and security missions in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The new police officers (Class 31-2021 RBAR MASIKLAB) were formally introduced to the rigid and highly tactical training course with the opening ceremonies held inside the headquarters of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-BARMM in Parang town.

“Do what is right as you perform your duties and responsibilities for the people of the Bangsamoro region,” said Colonel Pablo Labra II, the PRO-BARMM deputy director for administration.

“Always bear in mind that serving our countrymen and women is accompanied by our dedication and commitment to serve and protect,” he added.

The BISOC is designed to hone the capabilities of the program trainees to be effective and skilled police officers that will help the Philippine National Police suppress insurgency, terrorism, and criminalities across the BARMM component areas.

“These police officers also are being trained to perform election peacekeeping duties and, when necessary, act as poll officials (in election hotspots),” Labra told reporters.

The BARMM comprises the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi as well as in the cities of Cotabato, Marawi, Lamitan, and the 63 villages in six towns of North Cotabato province.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160219

Troops destroy P11-M marijuana plants in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): Troops destroy P11-M marijuana plants in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

MARIJUANA PLANTATIONS. Photo shows some of the PHP11-million worth of marijuana plants before their destruction during separate law enforcement operations in Luuk, Sulu on Wednesday (Nov. 17, 2021). Three suspects, including an alleged marijuana plantation owner, were arrested by authorities. (Photo courtesy of 4th Marine Brigade)

Government operatives have destroyed over PHP11 million worth of marijuana plants in four plantations and arrested three people in separate law enforcement operations in Barangay Lingah, Luuk, Sulu, officials said Thursday.

The four marijuana plantations were destroyed Wednesday in separate areas in Barangay Lingah, said Col. Jaime Mojica, Sulu acting provincial police director.

Arrested were Atimula Jaharin and Bakil Kadil, both cultivators, while the third suspect was only identified as a certain Bakil, owner of three of the plantations.

Mojica, in his report to Brig. Gen. Eden Ugale, the police director of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said some 10,000 field grade marijuana plants worth PHP2 million were destroyed and arrested Jaharin and Kadil in the first plantation they discovered around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in Barangay Lingah.

Mojica said operatives also recovered an M16 rifle with ammunition from the duo.

Minutes later, Col. Hernanie Songano, 4th Marine Brigade commander, said the troops uncovered three other marijuana plantations in Sitio Tangan-Tangan, Barangay Lingah.

Songano said the operatives have destroyed some 11,000 fully-grown marijuana plants in the three plantations and recovered two boxes of dried marijuana leaves worth some PHP9.5 million.

Songano said the troops have arrested Bakil, the alleged owner of the three plantations, which have a cumulative area of one hectare.

Ugale said the cultivators and plantation owner will be charged with the violation of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and R.A. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

Ugale and Songano lauded the troops for the successful law enforcement operations that led to the destruction of the four marijuana plantations in Luuk, Sulu.

“We will continue with the marijuana eradication operation regionwide to end the cultivation and selling of this plant. Likewise, appropriate court charges await against identified cultivators,” Ugale said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160175

Gov’t to continue defending PH sovereignty, territory: Palace

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): Gov’t to continue defending PH sovereignty, territory: Palace (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Acting Presidential Spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles (File photo)

The Duterte administration will continue to defend the Philippines’ sovereignty and territory, Malacañang said on Thursday.

“As we have in the past, we will continue to assert our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over our territory,” said acting Presidential Spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles in a press statement.

Nograles’ statement came after the Western Command reported that three Chinese Coast Guard vessels “blocked and water cannoned” two Philippine supply boats on a resupply mission to military personnel onboard BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

No one was hurt but the Philippine vessels had to abort their resupply mission.

Nograles lauded the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for its swift action on the Ayungin Shoal incident.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs has acted swiftly and has condemned the incident involving the Chinese Coast Guard,” he said.

In a separate statement, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping the Philippines’ “outrage, condemnation, and protest of the incident.”

Locsin said the Chinese Coast Guard’s acts are “illegal” and “threatens the special relationship” between the Philippines and China.

“China has no law enforcement rights in and around these areas. They must take heed and back off,” he said. “The Philippines will continue to provide supplies to our troops in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal). We do not ask permission to do what we need to do in our territory.”

Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), is an integral part of the Philippines, as well as the country’s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.

Hence, the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal.


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160137

PH outraged after Chinese vessels blocked PH supply boats

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): PH outraged after Chinese vessels blocked PH supply boats (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Foreign Affairs Sec. Teodoro Locsin Jr. (File photo)

The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has expressed outrage after three Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked and "water cannoned" two Filipino supply boats while en route to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) this week.

The agency said the incident happened on November 16 while the two boats were about to transport food supplies to Philippine military personnel who are stationed in the Ayungin.

No one was hurt but the boats had to abort their resupply mission.

"I have conveyed in the strongest terms to H.E. Huang Xilian, Ambassador of China and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing our outrage, condemnation, and protest of the incident," Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. said Thursday.

He also reminded the Chinese side that a public vessel is covered by the Philippines-United States Mutual Defense Treaty.

Ayungin Shoal is part of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), which is an integral part of the Philippines, as well as the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, and over which the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.

Locsin said these acts committed by the Chinese Coast Guard are "illegal" and that China has no law enforcement rights in and around these areas.

"They must take heed and back off," he stressed.

He added that this failure to exercise self-restraint "threatens the special relationship" between the Philippines and China that President Rodrigo Duterte and President Xi Jinping worked hard to nurture.

Locsin said the Philippine government would continue to provide supplies to its troops in Ayungin Shoal.

"We do not ask permission to do what we need to do in our territory," he said.

Ayungin Shoal is located about 105 nautical miles off Palawan, Philippines, well within the country's 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160135

PH, Thailand navies eye closer ties

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): PH, Thailand navies eye closer ties (By Priam Nepomuceno) 

STRONG TIES. Philippine Navy chief, Vice Adm. Adeluis Bordado (right), and Thailand Naval Attaché to the Philippines, Capt. Pakpoom Muensri (left), do a fist bump during the Thai military official's introductory call at the PN headquarters in Manila on Wednesday (Nov. 17, 2021). Muensri began his duties and responsibilities as Thailand's naval attaché to the country last October 1. (Photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) have vowed to forge stronger ties and deepen cooperation.

This, as Thailand's Naval Attaché to the Philippines, Capt. Pakpoom Muensri, paid an introductory call to PN chief Vice Adm. Adeluis Bordado at the PN headquarters in Manila on Wednesday.

"The furtherance of collaboration and forging stronger ties between the PN and the Royal Thai Navy were among the highlights of the conversation between Navy Chief Bordado and Captain Muensri," PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said in a statement Wednesday night.

Muensri began his duties and responsibilities as Thailand's naval attaché to the country last October 1.

"As demonstrated during today's courtesy call, the PN is firmly committed to maintaining and strengthening ties and friendships with other regional navies," Negranza said.

The Philippines and Thailand are both member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

Other Asean member states include Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160129

Army units join AFP urban ops exercise

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): Army units join AFP urban ops exercise (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Army

Philippine Army (PA) units took part in a combined arms live-fire, and urban operations exercise at the 3rd Infantry Division headquarters in Jamindan, Capiz on Wednesday.

The simulation exercise is part of this year's Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Joint Exercise (AJEX) "Dagat, Langit, at Lupa" (DAGIT PA), said PA spokesperson, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, on Thursday.

Also in attendance were other units from the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force.

Trinidad said the PA's Light Armor Division, infantry troops from the 3rd Infantry Division, and Army pilots from the Aviation Regiment participated along with the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Marines.

"The Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise (CALFEX) and Urban Operations highlight the interoperability of the AFP's different services in addressing conflicts in urban terrain using combined forces and military assets to quell violence and terrorism," Trinidad said.

Then PA commander and now AFP chief, Lt. Gen. Andres Centino, underscored the importance of joint exercises to prepare the military in addressing internal and threats.

"AJEX aims to enhance the readiness of our forces in joint operations, improving our capabilities to address all kinds of threats within or coming to our shores to protect our people," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160136

Ops vs. 6 NPA rebels 'legitimate': CIDG

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): Ops vs. 6 NPA rebels 'legitimate': CIDG (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Photo courtesy of PNP

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Thursday maintained that the series of operations in Quezon City and Bulacan resulted in the arrest of six members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) earlier this week was "legitimate".

CIDG chief, Maj. Gen. Albert Ferro made the remark after groups Gabriela and the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) alleged that the police force is attempting to link their organizations with the CPP-NPA following the recovery of several posters of their group and that of Bayan Muna party-list through the planting of evidence and peddling wrong information.

“The operations conducted by your PNP were legitimate and the police officers were armed with valid arrest warrants issued by the court. The pieces of evidence that were inadvertently found in the possession of the wanted persons were properly inventoried in the presence of barangay officials. Our personnel strictly followed the Police Operational Procedures during the operation,” Ferro said in a statement when sought for a comment.

“The PNP (Philippine National Police) neither condones planting of evidence nor does it authorize red-tagging. And the PNP has no participation in the creation of these materials. Nevertheless, the CIDG welcomes inquiries or investigations to shed light on this matter,” he added.

Ferro added that Gabriela merely wants to discredit the police officers involved in the operation and that this was not the first instance that law enforcement personnel discovered Gabriela and Bayan Muna party-list posters along with contrabands during legitimate operations.

“The PNP CIDG will not be fazed by these allegations and will continue to stand for truth and justice. The CIDG in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the community remains committed to the attainment of the NTF ELCAC’s objectives, towards the upholding of justice and democracy in the country,” said Ferro.

On Tuesday, Gil Peralta, a regular member of the CPP Central Committee member and one of the convenors of the CPP 2nd Congress, was arrested at his rented house in Barangay Maribolo, Quezon City.

Peralta was nabbed for frustrated murder and arson docketed under Criminal Case Nos. II-10853 and II-10854 issued by the Aparri, Cagayan Regional Trial Court Branch 9.

Authorities seized caliber 5.56mm Colt, caliber .9mm Armscor, two magazines, 32 pieces of ammunition, 93 inches detonating cap, an MK2 fragmentation grenade, 12 blasting caps, eight improvised boosters, a holster for pistol, and a cellular phone from Peralta.

Based on police records, Peralta is also the secretary of Komiteng Rehiyon–Cagayan Valley (KR-CV), Executive Committee member, first deputy secretary, finance officer, head of regional organizational department, and communication department of KR-CV.

Peralta was one of the brains behind the many NPA attacks in the Cagayan Valley region, including the burning of DDT Construction equipment in the town of Lal-lo, Cagayan in October 2020, and an attack on a CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) detachment in Sto. Niño, Cagayan in July 2019.

He was also implicated in the ambush and murder of the former Lasam, Cagayan councilor Marjorie April Salazar, Eduardo Asuten, John Rey Cortes and Aiza Salvador Manuel.

Former KR-CV members revealed that Peralta was involved in corruption activities within the CPP-NPA and has been using the funds that the terrorist organization generated from its extortion operations for personal gains.

In Barangay San Vicente, Santa Maria, Bulacan, Carlos said the police also arrested the five CPP-NPA-NDF members identified as Irene Agcaoili, Lourdes Bulan, Roy Dela Cruz, Arcadio Tangonan, and Natividad Santos.

Agcaoili, also known as Ayang, is the finance head of KR-CV who is wanted for murder, multiple attempted murder, and robbery and with a PHP700,000 bounty on her head while Dela Cruz is the intelligence officer of KR-CV. Bulan is an executive committee member of KR-CV who is wanted for murder and multiple attempted murder.

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.

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160138

WPS resupply mission to continue: Esperon

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): WPS resupply mission to continue: Esperon (By Priam Nepomuceno)

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. (File photo)

National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said they will continue the resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"We will continue the resupply and we do not have to ask the permission of anybody because that is within our territory," said Esperon, also chairperson of the National Task Force (NTF)-WPS, in an interview with reporters on Thursday.

"We hope that with our protest, they will also heed our calls for them to back off," he added.

The Western Command earlier reported that three Chinese Coast Guard vessels “blocked and water cannoned” two Philippine supply boats or "bancas" last November 16.

No one was hurt but the Philippine vessels, which were identified as Unaiza Mae 1 and 3, had to abort their mission after one of them had its outrigger damaged by the water cannon.

Esperon said he was also surprised over the unusual presence of many Chinese ships off the Ayungin Shoal.

"Previous to that, for almost one week, nagtaka kami, unusual yung presence nila sa Ayungin. There were about, usual dyan mga dalawang Chinese Maritime Militia lang pero for the last week merong 19. (We were wondering why they have an unusual presence in the Ayungin Shoal). Usually, there were only two Chinese Maritime Militia (vessels there) but since last week, there are now 19)," he added.

The Chinese presence off Pagasa Island has also grown significantly, Esperon said.

"(In) Pagasa (there are also) record number (of Chinese vessels spotted) 45, (which is a) record number for the year, (they are) so very aggressive, so we are protesting that because that's part of our EEZ (exclusive economic zone) and those are low tide elevations, tulad ng (like) Mischief Reef, (is a) low tide elevation, so nobody is supposed to be there, it is within our EEZ," he added.

Esperon said this is a huge increase from an average of only 20 ships off Pagasa Island.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160152

2 new 97-meter ships to boost West PH Sea patrols: PCG

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): 2 new 97-meter ships to boost West PH Sea patrols: PCG (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)

STRONGER FLEET. The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) second 97-meter multi-role response vessel during its launch at the Shimonoseki Shipyard in Japan on Thursday (Nov. 18, 2021). The PCG said the ship and its twin will allow for sustained maritime patrols especially in areas such as the West Philippine Sea. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

The two 97-meter multi-role response vessels (MRRV) recently acquired for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are seen to boost the country’s ability to patrol the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the rest of its maritime jurisdiction.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, the PCG said the ships -- manufactured by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. In Japan -- will be the PCG's largest vessels, a record currently held by the French-made 83-meter off-shore patrol vessel (OPV) BRP Gabriela Silang.

“Bahagi ito ng Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase II (MSCIP Phase 2) ng Department of Transportation - Philippines (DOTr) para sa modernisasyon ng PCG (This is part of the MSCIP Phase 2 of the DOTr for the modernization of the PCG),” the PCG said.

These new ships, it said, are based on the Japan Coast Guard’s ‘Kunigami-class’ vessels and are capable of a maximum speed of not lower than 24 knots and an endurance of 4,000 nautical miles or more.

With these ships, the PCG will be able to launch sustained maritime patrols in the country’s waters including the West Philippine Sea, the Philippine Rise, and in the southern parts of the country.

Earlier on Thursday, the second vessel of the two acquired through the MSCIP Phase 2 was launched at the Shimonoseki Shipyard in Japan and is expected to be delivered to the Philippines by May 2022.

The first vessel was earlier launched at the same shipyard in July 2021 and is expected to reach the country in March 2022.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160195

Duterte lauds NTF-ELCAC's 'best' dev’t projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 18, 2021): Duterte lauds NTF-ELCAC's 'best' dev’t projects (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday praised the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for undertaking initiatives to bring development to insurgency-cleared areas in the country.

Duterte gave the commendation, as he expressed dismay over the Senate Committee on Finance's recent decision to slash the proposed 2022 funding for NTF-ELCAC from PHP28.12 billion to just PHP4 billion.

During the NTF-ELCAC's joint meeting with the ELCAC's regional task force (RTF) in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, Duterte hailed the anti-insurgency task force for its development projects in areas no longer infested with the Communist Party of the Philippines' (CPP) armed wing, the New People's Army (NPA).

"Itong ELCAC, pinakamahusay na sanang program to date na binigay natin sa kanila (ELCAC has the best program to date)," Duterte said. "Eh 'yung budget nilang PHP28 billion, ginawa na lang PHP4 billion ng mga senador. Yun sana is to give every barangay PHP20 million (It was supposed to get a PHP28-billion budget [in 2022] but the senators cut it to just PHP4 billion. The budget was supposed to be used to give every village PHP20 million)."

Duterte was referring to the NTF-ELCAC’s Barangay Development Program (BDP) which seeks to bring development to former conflict-prone communities.

The BDP is a package of socio-economic development programs that include farm-to-market roads, livelihood, irrigation, and health stations.

A total of 1,406 insurgency-cleared villages nationwide are expected to benefit from the BDP in 2022. They are set to receive PHP20 million each to fund their anti-insurgency projects.

Duterte said he is grateful to the NTF-ELCAC and RTF-ELCAC for their commitment to stop the insurgency problems in the country.

He also expressed hope that local chief executives and community leaders would continue helping his administration in its fight against communism.

"To our local chief executives and community leaders who play a crucial role not only in addressing insurgency but also fighting crime and the illegal drugs in your respective localities, your cooperation will likewise advance the government's goal of securing and safeguarding the nation," Duterte said.

Duterte made the call, as he chided the communists anew for their killing spree.

"So, diyan din ako galit ako sa mga komunista. Talagang galit ako hanggang ngayon (So, I am really mad at the communists. I am mad at them until now)," he said.

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

The CPP's political wing, the National Democratic Front (NDF), has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and separate part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

The peace talks between the national government and NDF have been intermittent since 1986.

Duterte tried to hold a series of peace talks with the NDF, but decided to terminate the negotiations following the NPA’s relentless attacks against government troops and civilians.

He formally ended the peace negotiations with the NDF through Proclamation 360 inked on Nov. 23, 2017.

The termination of talks was followed by the Dec. 5, 2017 signing of Proclamation 273 which declared the CPP-NPA as a terror group.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160234

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Umiigting na pag-atake ng US sa gubyernong Sandinista ng Nicaragua

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)/PRWC Newsroom (Nov 18, 2021): Umiigting na pag-atake ng US sa gubyernong Sandinista ng Nicaragua

 

Inianunsyo kahapon ni Pres. Joe Biden na hindi na pahihintulutang pumasok sa US ang lahat ng upisyal sa gubyerno ng Nicaragua. Ipinatupad ito bilang bahagi ng komprehensibong imperyalistang atake ng US sa Nicaragua kasunod ng matagumpay na pagdaraos ng mamamayan nito sa kanilang pambansang eleksyon noong Nobyembre 7. Layon ng US at mga alyado nito na maliitin at hindi kilalanin ang popular na demokratikong proseso.

Sa naturang eleksyon, nanalo sa ikaapat na magkakasunod na termino ang pangulo ng Nicaragua na si Daniel Ortega, na nakakuha ng 2,093,834 boto o katumbas ng 76% ng kabuuang popular na mga boto. Nanalo din ang kanyang asawa na si Rosario Murillo bilang bise-presidente. Tinalo ni Ortega ang anim na katunggali, kabilang na ang mga nominado ng mga partidong pulitikal na binuo at pinopondohan ng US. Si Ortega ay nagmula sa Sandinista, isang partidong deklaradong sosyalista at kristyano, na kinikilala na bahagi ng patriyotikong kilusang Bolivarian na lumalaban sa dominasyon ng imperyalismong US sa mga bansa sa Latin America.

Una nang naglabas ng resolusyon noong Nobyembre 12 ang General Assembly of the Organization of American States sa pangunguna ng US para ideklarang “hindi malaya, patas o malinaw at walang demokratikong pagkalehitimo” ang eleksyon. Taliwas sa alegasyong “huwad” at “hindi-demokratiko” ang sistemang elektoral sa Nicaragua, malaking bilang ng mamamayan (65%) ang bumoto. Daan-daang internasyunal na mga tagamasid sa eleksyon ang mismong nakasaksi na mapayapa at matatag na isinagawang ang proseso.

Para ipawalangsaysay ang eleksyon, ginagamit ng imperyalismong US ang mga alegasyon ng katiwalian at pulitikal na panunupil na kinahaharap ni Ortega. Kabilang na rito ang “pag-aresto” sa kanyang mga “katunggali sa pulitika” bago ang eleksyon. Gayunpaman, hindi binabanggit sa imperyalistang midya na ang mga ipinaaresto ay pawang mga indibwal na napatunayang lumahok at nanguna sa mararahas na protesta na pinondohan at idinirehe ng US para ipagtigil ang progresibong mga repormang panlipunan sa bansa.

Noong Lunes, naglabas rin ng resolusyon ang US para i-blacklist ang siyam na matataas na upisyal ng Nicaragua, kabilang na ang mga ministro, bise-ministro at mga embahador nito. Sa bisa ng resolusyon, ang mga ari-arian sa US ng mga naturang indibidwal ay ipina-freeze (ipinagbawal na galawin o gamitin sa anumang operasyon) ni Biden at ipinagbawal ang pakikipagtransaksyon sa kanila ng sinumang Amerikano. Mas masahol pa, plano ng US at mga alyado nito na pagpataw ng blokeyo sa ekonomya sa Nicaragua para gipitin at pilitin itong sumunod sa dikta ng US.

Ang partidong Sandinista ay matagal nang nangunguna sa paglaban sa panghihimasok ng US sa Nicaragua. Ang partidong ito ay nagmula sa Sandinista National Liberation Front, isang malapad na nagkakaisang prente na naglunsad ng pakikidigmang gerilya laban sa papet ng US na si Anastasio Somoza Garcia na napatalsik sa isang insureksyon noong 1979. Binuo at pinondohan ng US ang armadong grupong Contras noong 1981 na naghasik ng karahasan, pananabotahe at panggigipit noong buong dekada 1980 upang paluhurin ang gubyernong Sandinista at pwersahin itong gumawa ng mga konsesyong pampulitika. Natalo ang Sandinista sa eleksyong 1990 na lubos na pinakialaman ng US. Muling nakabalik sa poder ang partidong Sandinista noong 2007. Mula noon, kinikilala ang makabuluhang mga pagsulong sa Nicaragua laluna sa sistema sa kalusugan, edukasyon, imprastruktura, soberanya sa pagkain at pagkakapantay-pantay sa kasarian.

Agresibong ipinapataw ng US ang hegemonya nito sa Nicaragua dahil sa heograpikal na katangian ng bansa at mayaman nitong natural na mga rekurso. Nagsimula ang interbensyong militar sa bansa noon pang huling bahagi ng ika-19 siglo para pigilan ang ibang mga bansa sa naudlot na planong pagtatayo at paggamit sa Nicaraguan Canal, isang lagusan sa pakikipagkalakalan na nagdudugtong sa Caribbean Sea at Pacific Ocean, at sa gayon ay maglalatag ng mas maiksing ruta sa pakikipagkalakalan para sa US. Malaki rin ang interes ng US sa matabang lupa, preskong tubig at rekursong mineral nito. Sa kasalukuyan, halos kalahati ng kabuuang eksport ng Nicaragua ay napupunta sa US.

Direktang inokupa ng US ang Nicaragua mula 1912 hanggang 1933 bilang bahagi ng tinaguriang Banana Wars (dahil sa malalawak na plantasyon ng saging na itinayo ng mga dayuhang korporasyong) na inilunsad ng US sa Central America at Caribbean. Matapos nito ay iniluklok ng US ang papet na si Anastasio Somoza Garcia para tiyakin ang neokolonyal na kontrol nito sa Nicaragua.

Ang imperyalistang interbensyon sa Nicaragua ay kasalukuyang pinangungunahan ni US Ambassador Kevin Sullivan na unang itinalaga ni Pres. Donald Trump, at pinananatili ni Pres. Joe Biden. Noong nakaraang buwan, binatikos ng Nicaraguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs si Sullivan na anito’y tagapagtaguyod ng imperyalistang tradisyon ng panghihimasok at kontra-rebolusyonaryong mga atake ng US laban sa mga mamamayan ng Latin America. Nanawagan ito kay Sullivan na “itigil ang kanyang palihim na mga atake … at ang nagpapatuloy, buktot, kamuhi-muhi, mapangialam na panghihimasok ng US sa Nicaragua.” Anito, patuloy na ilalantad at babatikusin ng mamamayang Nicaraguan ang napakaraming abusado at kriminal na interbensyon ng US sa bansa.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cppangbayan.wordpress.com/2021/11/18/umiigting-na-pag-atake-ng-us-sa-gubyernong-sandinista-ng-nicaragua/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pangatlong kaso para idiskwalipika si Marcos Jr, inihapag sa Comelec

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)/PRWC Newsroom (Nov 17, 2021): Pangatlong kaso para idiskwalipika si Marcos Jr, inihapag sa Comelec

 

Inihapag ngayong araw ng mga biktima ng batas militar ang pangatlong petisyon para ipadiskwalipika si Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sa pagtakbo bilang presidente at sa anupamang pusisyon sa gubyerno sa hinaharap. Ang petisyon ay inihapag ng mga kasapi ng Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses and Martial Law o CARMMA. Nakapirma rito sina Satur Ocampo, Bonifacio Ilagan, Carol Araullo at 15 iba pa.

Dalawang petisyon na ang inihapag sa Comelec para ipawalambisa ang kandidatura ni Marcos Jr. Ang una ay inihapag noong Nobyembre 2 ng mga biktima rin ng batas militar na kinabibilangan nina Fr. Christian Buenafe, Ma. Edeliza P. Hernandez, Celia Sevilla, Roland Vibal, at Josephine Lascano. Nakapirma rin sa petisyong ito si Fides Lim, pinuno ng Kapatid, organisasyon ng mga pamilya at tagasuporta ng mga detinidong pulitikal mula pa noong panahon ng diktadurang Marcos.

Ang pangalawa ay inihapag noong Nobyembre 8 ng isang grupo na pinangunahan ni Rommel Bautista, isang duktor, at pinirmahan nina Edwin Reyes, Napoleon Siongco, Fernando Guevara, Santiago Muńoa Jr., Glenn Gallos, Noel Carpio, Joel Mayo, Marie Soriano, at Mario Montejo.

Nakabase ang tatlong petisyon sa kabiguan ni Marcos Jr. na ideklara sa kanyang sertipikasyon sa pagkakandidato ang “di mapasusubaliang katotohanan” na nahatulan siyang nagkasala ng korte noong 1995. Dalawa ang kaso niya noon sa di pagbabayad ng buwis na labag sa National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC). Pinatawan siya ng korte ng tig-3-taong pagkakabilanggo kada kaso at multa na ₱30,000. Nahatulan din siyang nagkasala sa pito pang kaso ng paglabag sa NIRC at pinatawan ng dagdag pang sentensya at mga multa.

Hindi kailanman nakulong si Marcos Jr. Nilabanan ng kanyang mga abugado ang hatol at kalaunan ay napabaligtad ang mga kaso, liban sa apat. Noong 1997, iniatras ng Court of Appeals ang sentensyang pagkakabilanggo pero pinanatili ang multa na ₱32,000. Naging pinal ang hatol noong 2001.

Ayon sa mga petisyuner, hindi kailanman binayaran ni Marcos Jr ang mga di-bayad na buwis kahit pa noong nagsilbi na siya bilang bise-gubernador sa Ilocos Norte noong 1981 hanggang 1983 at gubernador noong 1983 hanggang 1986.

“Makikita na sa sumunod na mga taon, hindi pa rin nagbayad ng buwis para sa mga taong 1982 hanggang 1985 si Marcos Jr,” ayon sa pangalawang petisyon. Alinsunod sa mga probisyon sa NIRC, ang sinumang pampublikong upisyal na nahatulang nagkasala na lumabag dito ay maaaring patawan ng maksimum na parusa ng habambuhay na diskwalipikasyon na humawak ng anumang pusisyon sa pampublikong upisina, bumoto o lumahok sa anumang eleksyon (Seksyon 253c ng NIRC.)

“Talagang anak ng magnanakaw ang sinungaling,” ayon kay Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate, kaugnay sa kaso ng pag-iwas sa buwis ni Marcos Jr. Nakatakdang dinggin ang mga petisyon sa darating na Nobyembre 26.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cppangbayan.wordpress.com/2021/11/17/pangatlong-kaso-para-idiskwalipika-si-marcos-jr-inihapag-sa-comelec/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: HLM17: Patuloy na panawagan para sa hustisya

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)/PRWC Newsroom (Nov 17, 2021): HLM17: Patuloy na panawagan para sa hustisya

 

Nananatiling mailap ang hustisya para sa mga biktima ng masaker ng mga manggagawang-bukid sa Hacienda Luisita noong Nobyembre 16, 2004. Hanggang ngayon ay wala pang naparurusahan sa mga armadong sundalo at maton na walang habas na nagpaputok at mga upisyal na nag-utos sa kanila. Walang pa ring sariling lupa ang mga magsasaka ng asyenda.

Naglunsad ng isang kilos protesta ang mga magsasaka sa pangunguna ng Alyansa ng mg Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) kahapon ng umaga sa tapat ng lokal na upisina ng Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) sa Tarlac para gunitain ang masaker. Dumalo sa pagkilos ang mga kasapi ng Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA), Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) at Anakpawis Partylist.

Iginiit nila ang pamamahagi ng mga lupaing-TADECO o Tarlac Development Corporation na saklaw ng Hacienda Luisita. Saklaw ito ng Notice of Coverage ng DAR na inilabas noon pang 2013. Ang nasabing lupa ay ilang taong ipinaglaban, dugo at pawis, ng mga myembro ng Alyansa ng mga Manggagawang Bukid sa Asyenda Luisita (AMBALA).

Kinundena rin ng mga kasapi ng AMBALA at residente ng mga barangay ng Hacienda Luisita ang umiigting na militarisasyon at presensya ng militar sa lugar, kabilang na ang sapilitang pagpapasuko, panggigipit at iba pang paglabag sa karapatang-tao.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cppangbayan.wordpress.com/2021/11/17/hlm17-patuloy-na-panawagan-para-sa-hustisya/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Pambobomba at mga pagpaslang, iniulat ng BHB-Leyte

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)/PRWC Newsroom (Nov 16, 2021): Pambobomba at mga pagpaslang, iniulat ng BHB-Leyte

 

Iniulat ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan-Leyte (Mount Amandewin Command)  noong Nobyembre 15 ang mga paglabag sa karapatang-tao ng mga tropa ng AFP sa prubinsya noong Agosto-Setyembre.

Teror sa pambobomba. Tatlong bomba ang inihulog ng FA-50 fighter jet ng AFP sa bukirin ng Sityo Quarry, Abuyog noong Septyembre 29 bandang alas-3 ng madaling araw.

Nagdulot ito ng sindak at troma sa mga sibilyan. Dagdag na pasakit ito sa matagal nang bagsak na kabuhayan ng mga magsasaka sa lugar na dati nang nagtitiis sa mababang kita, mahal na upa sa lupa, at mababang sahod.

Kinabukasan, tatlong magsasaka — dalawa ang matanda na —  ng iligal na inaresto ng mga sundalo ng 14th IB. Hindi pa rin sila pinakakawalan, ayon sa pinakahuling ulat ng BHB-Leyte.

Walang yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan na tinamaan sa pambomomba.

Pagpatay at pang-aagawa ng lupa.  Sa Southern Leyte, pinatay ng mga berdugong ahente ng 14th IB ang magsasakang si Marcos Dadap, 49, noong Agosto 17 sa Sityo Tabjon ng Barangay Kalagitan sa bayan ng Hinunangan.

Nagmomotorsiklo noon si Dadap bandang alas-6 ng umaga papunta sa kanyang sakahan nang barilin siya sa ulo ng dalawang lalaking natukoy na mga aktibong asset ng 14th IB. Nakuha sa pinangyarihan ng krimen ang dalawang bala ng calibre .45.

Pangalawang magsasaka si Dadap na pinaslang ng militar sa nasabing sityo. Kabilang siya sa mga residente na lumalaban sa antang pagpapalayas sa kanillang mga lupa para bigyan-daan ang pagtatayo ng gusali ng lokal na gubyerno. Ayon pa sa mga residente, naging mabagal ang pagresponde ng mga pulis at wala itong ginawang seryosong imbestigasyon.

Bago ang pamamaslang, ilang buwan nang nire-red-tag si Dadap ng mga ahente sa intelidyens ng 14th IB bilang tagasuporta ng BHB at pinipilit na magsilbing aset laban sa rebolusyunaryong kilusan.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cppangbayan.wordpress.com/2021/11/16/pambobomba-at-mga-pagpaslang-iniulat-ng-bhb-leyte/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Ahente ng intelidyens, kumander ng militar, patay sa mga aksyong militar ng BHB-MAC

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Tagalog edition) posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)/PRWC Newsroom (Nov 16, 2021): Ahente ng intelidyens, kumander ng militar, patay sa mga aksyong militar ng BHB-MAC

Matagumpay na isinagawa ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan-Leyte (Mt. Amandewin Command ) ang aksyong pagpaparusa sa isang ahente sa intelidyens ng 14th Infantry Battalion na si Jimmy Himay, residente ng Sityo Dampoy, Barangay Pancho Villa ng Sogod, Southern Leyte noong Agosto 19.

Isang araw bago nito, aktibong nakapagdepensa ang isang yunit ng BHB-Leyte laban sa mga tropa ng 14th IB sa Barangay Lawgawan sa bayan ng Bontoc. Napatay ang kumander ng umatakeng yunit at ilang sundalo ang nasugatan. Dalawang Pulang mandirigma naman ang nag-alay ng buhay sa naturang labanan.

[In the face of the rapidly changing political and economic situation in the Philippines, as well as around the world, the newspaper Ang Bayan publishes daily news and analysis on key issues facing the proletariat and the Filipino people, as well as the oppressed people among others. Here you will find the latest news and articles of Ang Bayan.]

https://cppangbayan.wordpress.com/2021/11/16/ahente-ng-intelidyens-kumander-ng-militar-patay-sa-mga-aksyong-militar-ng-bhb-mac/

CPP/PRWC Newsroom: Notice: Ka Oris interment on November 20

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Nov 18, 2021): Notice: Ka Oris interment on November 20

 

MARCO VALBUENA

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

November 18, 2021

“The revolution belongs to the people” – Ka Oris

In honor of former New People’s Army commander and spokesperson Ka Oris (Jorge Madlos), the Party calls on all revolutionaries, patriots and democrats to dedicate a minute of silence at high noon of November 20, Saturday, the day that his ashes will be interred.

Thereafter, the flags of the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army will be unfurled and raised, as all Party cadres and Red fighters of the NPA stand in attention to salute Ka Oris and vow to always keep his memory alive.

Long live Ka Oris, hero and martyr of the Filipino people! Long live Ka Oris, the modern day Andres Bonifacio! Let the memory of Ka Oris live forever!

Long live the New People’s Army! Long live the Communist Party of the Philippines! Long live the Filipino people!

#KaOrisLives

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/11/18/notice-ka-oris-internment-on-november-20/

CPP/PRWC Newsroom: The AFP’s cowardice and lies in Ka Oris’ murder will not keep comrades and the masses away from the people’s war

Propaganda statement posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Nov 18, 2021): The AFP’s cowardice and lies in Ka Oris’ murder will not keep comrades and the masses away from the people’s war

 

RIGOBERTO F. SANCHEZ

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SOUTHERN MINDANAO (MERARDO ARCE COMMAND)

November 18, 2021

The Regional Operations Command of the New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao stands in solidarity with the Filipino masses in paying highest tribute to Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, former spokesperson of the Red army’s National Operations Command. With his medical aide, Ka Oris was unarmed and defenseless aboard a motorcycle when they were murdered by AFP troops in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon on October 29.

There is no honor in killing an unarmed and elderly comrade, and no amount of half-truths and whole lies will smokescreen the fact that Ka Oris’ murder constitutes a war crime, plain and simple. In the eyes of Red fighters and the masses, the AFP’s craven act will not keep them away from the people’s protracted war. Ka Oris’ death is yet another reason to continue wage the revolutionary armed struggle.

Expectedly, the fascists have gone on a fake news frenzy in the aftermath of Ka Oris’ murder. The AFP’s preposterous claim that they killed Ka Oris and his aide during a series of firefights and aerial bombardment did not hold water. They cremated his remains in a hurry to avoid being found guilty of murder in cold blood.

But the masses, especially those in Impasug-ong and neighboring towns, see through these lies. The masses know the truth, and are therefore enraged—not disheartened or frightened—at the AFP’s brazen attempt to cover up their heinous crime. The fascists are certainly deluding themselves if they think that killing Ka Oris, or any NPA or CPP leader for that matter, can push Red fighters to surrender, much less bring about the defeat of the Filipino people’s armed resistance.

The Red commanders and fighters in the region, especially those who were fortunate to have met him, will always remember Ka Oris as an indefatigable communist, whose wisdom and dedication have inspired many Party leaders and comrades in the region. He visited Southern Mindanao’s guerilla bases several times over the years, memorably during the onslaught of Typhoon Pablo in 2012 where he was able to contribute his experiences in the succeeding campaign for relief and rehabilitation.

Ka Oris’ murder follows an all-too familiar modus operandi that is a linchpin in the fascist US-Duterte regime’s counterinsurgency campaign, Oplan Kapanatagan. The masses have seen it in the AFP’s Tokhang-style murder of Ka Parts Bagani in Polomolok in August and in the merciless execution of Ka Joaquin Jacinto and his companion in Tandag City in December last year.

Much like its profligate and destructive aerial bombardment, the AFP’s cowardice and lies in the killing of unarmed comrades will only stoke revolutionary fervor among the oppressed.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/11/18/the-afps-cowardice-and-lies-in-ka-oris-murder-will-not-keep-comrades-and-the-masses-away-from-the-peoples-war/

CPP/PRWC Newsroom: ANG PAGHIMAKAS--CPP Negros newsletter releases anti-fascist special issue

Propaganda publication special issue posted to the PRWC Newsroom (Nov 17, 2021): ANG PAGHIMAKAS--CPP Negros newsletter releases anti-fascist special issue

Expect the most terrible attack of state forces under Joint Task Force Negros, in the countryside and even in the cities, after the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) declared that it will end insurgency in Negros this year up to June 2022.

This according to the antifascist-themed special issue of the Communist Party of the Philippines newsletter in Negros Island, Ang Paghimakas (The Struggle), released today, November 17.

It called on revolutionary forces to “bravely and determinedly frustrate fierce attacks of Duterte’s bloodthirsty regime.”

Moreover, it stated that “it is best for revolutionary forces to boost their courage, determination and militance to be able to face this type of attack comprehensively.”

In this special issue, Ang Paghimakas pointed out that fascism is an indicator of weakness and desperation of the Duterte regime in the middle of a socio-economic crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As stated in this edition, “the growing rage of the people is targeted towards the regime because while people fell victim to the COVID-19 pandemic, to lockdowns and quarantines lacking in government aid, hunger and privation, and the loss of livelihood and work, top military officials and bureaucrats in government agencies, and the family and cronies of Duterte are involved in extensive and shameless cases of corruption adding to the bankruptcy of the economy and of public coffers.”

It observed the rift within the ruling big comprador bourgeoisie-land lord class slowly growing “because of the ruling regime’s favoritism and cronyism.”

There is hidden disgust among retired and active elements of the AFP and Philippine National Police (PNP) in relation to the controversy in the West Philippine Sea and the puppetry of the Duterte regime to China, it stated.

Additionally, the split in the ruling class is getting bigger while the 2022 presidential elections is fast approaching.

Considering the general superiority of state forces, Ang Paghimakas declared that the New People’s Army (NPA) as the people’s army is prepared for great difficulties and sacrifices because it wages a just war and serves the people.

It challenged Red fighters to launch a counter-campaign using the principles of people’s war and guerrilla warfare to discover, grasp and utilize its own superiority against an exceptionally immense and strong enemy.

It stated that “if used correctly, victories though small and limited will gradually accumulate,” and also adding that “the NPA’s campaign for basic tactical offensives that can destroy the enemy is the most effective way of confronting focused military operations (FMO).”

More so, it urged that the broad masses, including the middle forces of society, be aroused, organized and mobilized to resist the growing fascist attacks of the AFP and PNP in Negros Island.

Despite what it described as “a fierce enemy,” it manifested confidence that revolutionary forces–the NPA, militia, organized masses and mass base–“are ready to confront strong and large enemy attacks.”

Based on almost 53 years of waging revolution headed by the CPP, the special issue enumerated several important tasks that will ensure the victory of revolutionary forces in Negros.

Ang Paghimakas, founded in the 1980s, is released monthly in hiligaynon while its regular editorial is published in english and bisaya as well. It can be downloaded through its website, http://www.negrosrevportal.wordpress.com, and CPP’s national website, cpp.ph.

https://prwcinfo.wordpress.com/2021/11/17/cpp-negros-newsletter-releases-anti-fascist-special-issue/