2 suspects in Sultan Kudarat bus bombing killed in Cotabato City

From the Philippine Star (Nov 27, 2022): 2 suspects in Sultan Kudarat bus bombing killed in Cotabato City (John Unson)

Emergency responders attend the bus passengers hurt in an explosion in Tacurong City on November 6, 2022. via The STAR / John Unson

COTABATO CITY, Philippines (Updated 4:55 p.m.) — Two suspects in the bombing of a bus in Tacurong City earlier this month and who were reported arrested on Sunday morning have died from gunshot wounds after they shot it out with police, authorities said.

The regional police offices in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and in Region 12 separately clarified at 4 p.m. Sunday that Haron Akmad Martin and wife Aiman Mandi Martin both perished in the shootout in a district of Cotabato City.

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The November 6 bombing of a Yellow Bus Line bus left a passenger dead and 11 others hurt.

Police Brig Gen. John Guyguyon, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, said the operation that led to their arrest was a joint initiative of PRO-BAR and units of the Police Regional Office-12 under Police Brig Gen. Jamili Macaraeg.

Guyguyon said Mandi and Martin both belong to the Dawlah Islamiya terror group and were nabbed after a Sultan Kudarat court issued warrants for their arrest.

Police said the suspects shot at police and military personnel who were approaching their hideout in Purok Pinen in Rosary Heights. They were eventually cornered and arrested by securitry forces.

Barangay officials in Rosary Heights 6 on Sunday afternoon told reporters the bombing suspects died from bullet wounds.

Sources from intelligence units of PRO-BAR and the Army’s 6th Infantry Division told reporters Sunday besides their involvement in the November 6 bombing of a unit of a Yellow Bus Line in Tacurong City, Mandi and Martin are also suspects in the bombing four years ago of the South Seas Mall that left a minor dead and seven others injured.

Senior Army and police intelligence officers said Mandi and Martin also have links to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/11/27/2226820/2-suspects-sultan-kudarat-bus-bombing-caught-cotabato-city

2 bus bomb suspects slain in ‘shootout’

From the Philippine Star (Nov 28, 2022): 2 bus bomb suspects slain in ‘shootout’ (John Unson)

File photo shows the damage in a unit of the Yellow Bus Line following a bomb attack on Nov. 6 in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat.  STAR / File

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Two suspects tagged in a recent bomb attack on a passenger bus in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat were killed in an alleged shootout with police officers in this city yesterday.

Haron Akmad Martin and his wife Aiman Mandi reportedly fired at a team of police officers out to serve a warrant for their arrest in Barangay Rosary Heights 6, according to separate reports from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region police and the Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos) police.

A passenger was killed while 11 others were wounded in the explosion that ripped through a bus of the Yellow Bus Line in Tacurong on Nov. 6.

Police officials clarified earlier reports that the suspects were arrested by a joint team of the regional and provincial police.

Officials of Barangay Rosary Heights 6 told journalists that the couple died from multiple gunshot wounds.

Mandi and Martin were reportedly members of the Dawlah Islamiya terror group, according to Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region police director.

Army and police intelligence officers said the suspects have links with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

The terror groups have pledged allegiance to international terrorist organization Islamic State.

Aside from their alleged involvement in the Tacurong bus bombing, the suspects were also tagged in an attack on the South Seas Mall in 2018, which killed a minor and wounded seven others.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/11/28/2226912/2-bus-bomb-suspects-slain-shootout

Eight NPA rebels surrender in North Cotabato

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 26, 2022): Eight NPA rebels surrender in North Cotabato

ZAMBOANGA. Eight New People’s Army (NPA) rebels voluntarily surrender to government authorities Wednesday, November 23, in the province of North Cotabato. A photo handout shows one of the surrenderers handing over a rifle to a police official when they surrendered to the 1203rd Mobile Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-Soccsksargen. (SunStar Zamboanga)

EIGHT New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have voluntarily surrendered to government authorities in the province of North Cotabato, the police reported Friday, November 25, 2022.

Police Colonel Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the eight NPA rebels surrendered to the 1203rd Mobile Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-Soccsksargen Wednesday, November 23, in Poblacion village, Makilala, North Cotabato.

Verceles identified the eight NPA surrenderers as follows: Randy Nalugod, 27; Junrey Kalimpitan, 37; Gilbert Emba, 31; Win Mark Lopez, 30; Arthur Binoya, 21; Ronnie Awag, 50; William Cudog, 37; and Janel Engco, 43.

All of the eight NPA surrenderers are ranking members and followers of the NPA’s Far-South Mindanao Region committee.

Verceles said they turned over one M-14 rifle and one M-16 Armalite rifle.

He said they were placed under the custody of the 1203rd Mobile Company for debriefing and documentation. (SunStar Zamboanga)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1947057/zamboanga/local-news/eight-npa-rebels-surrender-in-north-cotabato

Govt task forces hold summits for ex-rebels

From the Manila Times (Nov 28, 2022): Govt task forces hold summits for ex-rebels (By Roselle R. Aquino)

CAVINTI, Laguna: The Provincial Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-Elcac) of Laguna and Quezon conducted three-day summits for former communist rebels in Pagsanjan, Laguna and General Nakar, Quezon, respectively, on Nov. 23-25, 2022.

With 76 participants from the two provinces, the summits aimed to draw the support of the ex-insurgents for the national government's efforts to end the former's armed struggle; empower them to become third-party advocates of peace-building initiatives; and inculcate the value and importance of the family as a basic institution as they complete their integration into their respective communities and mainstream society.

In Quezon, the provincial integrated livelihood program of the Department of Labor and Employment and Department of Trade and Industry handed over additional economic assistance to the ex-rebels.

In Laguna, they undertook one-day skills training in food processing initiated by the Technical Skills and Development Authority (Tesda) and received food packs from partner agencies in the province at the conclusion of the summit.

Highlighting the summits were consultations between the participants and local and national government agencies where the ex-rebels were given opportunity to ask questions.

Later, representatives from the agencies shared their respective messages of support and commitment through government services.

In his statement, Brig. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr., commander, 202nd Infantry Brigade, commended the concerted efforts among the government agencies for their continuous assistance to the former insurgents.

Toni June Tamayo, regional director, Tesda-Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) attended the closing program of the Laguna summit as keynote speaker.

"Our agency has developed and implemented an efficient and effective system to help you gain skills and knowledge in managing a sustainable livelihood income that will be key to the betterment of your lives," he told the participants.

Mayor Eliseo Ruzol Sr., concurrent chairman of General Nakar TF-Elcac, was also present at the Quezon summit.

Burning of the flags of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People's Army and the National Democratic Front capped the summits.

The participants expressed their commitment and support in helping the government's information awareness campaign and at the same time encouraged their former comrades to return to the folds of the law and prevent the recruitment of members from the vulnerable sectors.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/11/28/news/regions/govt-task-forces-hold-summits-for-ex-rebels/1868115

NPA rebel killed in Igbaras clash

From Panay News (Nov 28, 2022): NPA rebel killed in Igbaras clash (By RUBY SILUBRICO and RHENJIE MARIE CALANTAS)

Domingo Tagapolan Costas of Miag-ao, Iloilo died in a clash with the Philippine Army on Saturday, Nov. 26, in Barangay Tigbanaba, Igbaras, Iloilo. Costas was a member of Team 1, Squad 1, of Suyak Platoon, Southern Front Kometing Rehiyon Panay. The Army recovered from the crime scene rifles, rifle grenade, food packs, medical supplies, and subversive documents, among others. IGBARAS POLICE STATION PHOTO

ILOILO City – A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in an encounter with the Philippine Army on Saturday, Nov. 26, in Barangay Tigbanaba, Igbaras town.

Domingo Tagapolan Costas, 47, and a resident of Barangay Dalije, Miag-ao, Iloilo, was a member of the NPA’s Team 1, Squad 1, of Suyak Platoon, Southern Front Kometing Rehiyon Panay, led by Jun Capio, authorities said.

He was positively identified by his live-in partner.

According to Police Lieutenant Rodel Pasion, Igbaras police chief, Costas’ live-in partner believed he tried to surrender several times but was stopped by his fellow NPA members.

The encounter against at least 10 armed men happened at 5:40 a.m. while members of the 61st Infantry Battalion were patrolling. It lasted for around 20 minutes.

Recovered from the crime scene were two M16A1 rifles, an AK-47 rifle, one M203 grenade launcher, a rifle grenade, ammunition, improvised explosive device (IED) paraphernalia, other war materials, assorted food packs, assorted medical supplies, and subversive documents.

“No casualties on the part of the Army… The crime scene was a far-flung village and we needed to walk more than an hour to reach the area,” Pasion said.

Major General Benedict Arevalo, Philippiner Army’s 3rd Infantry Division commander, conveyed low spirits because of the death.

“As much as possible, we want to make them realize that joining armed struggle is not the answer to attain peace, and we don’t want another victim and lives to be wasted. We are so much concerned for their families suffering their loss,” Arevalo said.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms to avoid the same fate as their comrades and avail themselves of the government’s programs intended for them.

Arevalo also assured that the military has intensified its security operations to uphold peace and security in the said area and the province of Iloilo./PN

https://www.panaynews.net/npa-rebel-killed-in-igbaras-clash/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 2 tropa ng 62nd IB, patay sa opensiba ng BHB

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 23, 2022): 2 tropa ng 62nd IB, patay sa opensiba ng BHB (2 troops of the 62nd IB, dead in the NPA offensive)

 

Naglunsad ng magkasunod na operasyong haras at isnayp ang isang yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)-Central Negros laban sa tropa ng 62nd IB sa Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City noong Lunes, Nobyembre 21, ng hapon. Dalawang tropa ng 62nd IB ang napatay at isa ang nasugatan. Ayon sa BHB, pagbibigay hustisya ito sa mga biktima ng paglabag sa karapatang-tao ng 62nd IB.

Umaga ng araw na iyon, pinatay ng 62nd IB ang isang magsasaka sa Sityo Columbia sa parehong barangay. Kinilala ang biktima na si Victor Baldonado at napag-alamang pinatay siya sa harap ng kanyang asawa at mga anak.

Naganap ang unang opensiba bandang alas-4:10 ng hapon sa Sityo Tuko nang paputukan ng hukbong bayan ang isang platun ng 62nd IB. Sinundan ito ng pag-isnayp ng isa pang yunit sa isa pang platun ng 62nd IB sa parehong sityo bandang alas-4:30 ng hapon.

Bago nito, pinatawan ng parusang kamatayan ang espiya ng militar na si Jovanie Omboy sa Sityo Haroy, Barangay Montilla, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental noong Nobyembre 20. Bahagi si Omboy ng lambat paniktik ng militar at regular na nag-uulat sa Barangay Montilla Army Patrol Base.

Makailang-ulit nang kinausap at binigyang-babala ng yunit ng hukbong bayan si Omboy ngunit nagpatuloy sa kanyang kontra-rebolusyonaryong aktibidad.

Nakapaglunsad na ng anim na armadong aksyon ang BHB-Central Negros ngayong buwan. Napaslang sa mga operasyong ito ang hindi bababa sa limang pasistang tropang militar.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/2-tropa-ng-62nd-ib-patay-sa-opensiba-ng-bhb/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Mula nang ipatupad ang Memo Order 32//Isang Bikolano kada linggo, pinatay ng militar—NDF Bicol

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 23, 2022): Mula nang ipatupad ang Memo Order 32//Isang Bikolano kada linggo, pinatay ng militar—NDF Bicol (Since the implementation of Memo Order 32//One Bikolano every week, killed by the military—NDF Bicol)

 

Sa loob ng apat na taong implementasyon ng Memorandum Order No. 32 ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno, naitala ng National Democratic Front (NDF)-Bicol ang hindi bababa sa 150 biktima ng pagpaslang ng mga pwersa ng Armed Forces of the Philippines at Philippine National Police sa masang Bicolano. Ngangangahulugan ito na halos kada linggo ay isang Bikolano ang pinaslang ng mga elemento ng AFP-PNP.

Pinirmahan ni dating Pres. Rodrigo Duterte ang Memorandum Order No. 32 noong Nobyembre 22, 2018 na nagpailalim sa buong rehiyong Bicol, Negros at Eastern Visayas sa kontrol ng militar. Nagbuhos ng karagdagang pwersang militar at pulis sa naturang mga lugar para supilin ang demokratikong pakikibaka ng mamamayan at armadong rebolusyong inululunsad ng hukbong bayan. Isinabay din ang naturang memorandum sa noo’y umiiral na batas militar sa Mindanao.

Ayon kay Ka Maria Roja Banua ng NDF-Bicol, “dahil sa mga patakarang tulad ng MO 32, ibayong sumahol ang kalagayan ng karapatang-tao sa Kabikulan.”

Naging laganap sa rehiyon ang mga kaso ng “pekeng engkwentro” kung saan pinapatay ng mga sundalo ng AFP ang mga sibilyang magsasaka at palalabasing kasapi ng BHB. Mayroon ding mga kaso ng “nanlaban kaya napatay” habang di umano’y naghahain sila ng mga mandamyento de aresto laban sa mga aktibsita at sibilyang populasyon.

Sukdulan ang naging paglabag ng pwersa ng estado maging sa internasyunal na makataong batas kung saan pinatay nito ang hindi bababa sa 7 mga hors de combat at non-combatant na kasapi ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Ngunit ayon kay Magbanua, nagkakamali ang mga pasista kung inaakala nilang ito ang maghahatid sa kanila sa tagumpay. Giit niya, “itinulak lamang nila ang pagluwal ng mas maraming rebolusyonaryo…”

Ayon sa kanya, kitang-kita ng masa paano walang awang pinagbobobomba ang kanilang mga komunidad, pinagpapatay ang kanilang mga kamag-anak, pinalalayas ang kanilang mga pamilya kaya’t lalong nagiging malinaw sa kanila ang makatarungang paglaban dito ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Sa pag-igting ng mga atake ng estado sa sambayanan, lalong umaalingasaw ang kabulukan nito at ibayong nauudyukan ang nakararami na maghanap ng masasandigang depensa. At ang pinakamalakas na sandata upang maipagtanggol ang kanilang buhay, karapatan at kabuhayan ay natagpuan nila sa pakikidigma.

Paliwanag pa ng NDF-Bicol, “sa araw-araw na pagiging saksi sa epekto ng MO 32 sa buhay ng kanilang kapwa maralita, ibayong napapaypayan ang lagablab ng diwa ng pakikidigma sa puso ng bawat isang Pulang mandirigma at kumander sa buong Bikol.”

Dahil umano sa patuloy na pag-iral ng pasistang panunupil sa ilalim ng bagong rehimeng Marcos Jr at Memorandum Order No. 32, higit umanong nagiging matingkad ang katotohanang ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan ay imposibleng magapi o mawakasan.

“Dadaloy at dadaloy ito sa puso ng bawat isa hanggat mayroong pang-aapi at pagsasamantala,” pagtatapos ng pahayag ng grupo.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/isang-bikolano-kada-linggo-pinatay-ng-militar-ndf-bicol/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: AFP, muling nambomba sa Bukidnon

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 24, 2022): AFP, muling nambomba sa Bukidnon (AFP, bombs again in Bukidnon)

 

Muli na namang nagsagawa ng pag-iistraping at pambobomba ang Armed Forces of the Philippines na yumanig sa mga sibilyang komunidad sa Bukidnon. Iniulat ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan-Bukidnon na nagpakawala ng mga rocket at bala mula sa ere ang 8th IB sa Purok 8, St, Peter, Malaybalay City noong Nobyembre 16.

Isinagawa ang pambobomba matapos dalawang beses makasagupa ng 8th IB ang yunit ng BHB sa naturang barangay noong Nobyembre 15, alas-kwatro ng hapon. Kinaumagahan, nabigwasan ng BHB ang mga nag-ooperasyong mga sundalo. Dalawang sundalo ang tinatayang napatay sa mga insidenteng ito.

Bandang alas-7:20 ng umaga ng Nobyembre 16, sinalakay ng mga helikopter ng AFP ang St. Peter. Nagpakawala ng walong rocket at limang beses na nang-istraping ang helikopter na MD520. Umabot sa 40 minuto ang unang ronda. Nagkaroon ng pangalawang ronda ng pambobomba mula 9:25 hanggang 9:35 ng umaga kung saan walong rocket ang pinakawalan at tatlong beses nang-istraping ang helikopter ng AFP.

Matinding takot ang idinulot ng mga pambobomba sa mga residente ng St. Peter at kalapit na mga barangay, laluna sa mga magsasakang nasa kanilang mga sakahan. Nagkandarapa sila sa pagtakbo dahil napakalapit sa kanilang komunidad ibinagsak ang mga bomba. Nagsidapa ang mga titser at mga estudyante sa kanilang mga klasrum habang paikot-ikot ang mga helikopter sa taas ng kanilang baryo.

Walang tinamaan na Pulang mandirigma sa serye ng mga pambobomba.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/afp-muling-nambomba-sa-bukidnon/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Magsasaka sa Masbate, binalingan ng galit ng mga sundalo

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 25, 2022): Magsasaka sa Masbate, binalingan ng galit ng mga sundalo (Farmers in Masbate, turned on in anger by soldiers)

 


Ibinaling ng mga sundalo ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang galit nito sa isang magsasakang residente ng Sityo Pacquiao, Barangay Jagna-an, San Jacinto, Ticao Island, Masbate matapos ang kabiguan sa isang engkwentro sa hukbong bayan. Pinaslang ng mga sundalo si Rene Bartolata Garzon noong Nobyembre 13.

Naganap ang engkwentro ng AFP at yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan noong Nobyembre 8, alas-6 ng umaga sa Sityo Tukip sa parehong barangay. Ayon sa BHB-Masbate, hindi bababa sa apat ang kaswalti sa hanay ng mga sundalo.

Ayon pa sa yunit, madalas tinatarget ng mga sundalo ang mga sibilyan at iniipit tuwing naglulunsad ang mga ito ng operasyong kombat. Labag sa internasyunal na makataong batas at Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) ang sadyang pagtarget sa mga sibilyan sa gitna ng armadong tunggalian.

“Sa kabiguang masukol ang NPA at tuluyang madurog ang armadong paglaban sa prubinsya, ibinaling at pinuntirya ng maruming gera ng AFP at PNP ang mga sibilyan,” pahayag ni Ka Luz del Mar, tagapagsalita ng komand ng BHB sa prubinsya.

Samantala, sa araw ding iyon, natagpuan ang walang-buhay na bangkay ni Gilbert Julie Abunales Goylan sa Sityo Madalamo, sa hangganan ng Barangay Palobandera at Barangay Del Carmen, Uson.

Ayon sa ulat, dinukot si Goylan ng mga armadong maton ni Barangay Adriel “Boyet” Besana, ahente ng militar, mula sa kanyang bahay sa Barangay Mahayahay, Cawayan noong Nobyembre 11. Bago ito, inabangan ng armadong grupo ni Besana ang negosyante ng hayop na si Ruel Riveral Mahusay galing sa Barangay Del Carmen, Uson pauwi sa Barangay Tuburan, Cawayan. Hinold-up at pinaslang ng mga salarin ang nasabing negosyante.

Hindi bababa sa 10 ang bilang ng mga naitatalang biktima ng ekstrahudisyal na pagpaslang sa Masbate sa ilalim ng rehimeng Marcos.

Sa harap ng pasistang paninibasib sa prubinsya, nanawagan ang BHB sa masang Masbatenyo na magkaisa, sama-sama at lahatang-panig na kumilos para ipagtanggol ang kanilang lupa, kabuhayan at buhay.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/magsasaka-sa-masbate-binalingan-ng-galit-ng-mga-sundalo/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Lider-manggagawa ng Caraga, arbitraryong inaresto

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 26, 2022): Lider-manggagawa ng Caraga, arbitraryong inaresto (Caraga labor leader, arbitrarily arrested)

 

Mariing kinundena ng Kilusang Mayo Uno ang Philippine National Police dahil sa arbitraryong pag-aresto sa Butuan City kay Roel Duyag, koordineytor ng KMU sa rehiyon ng Caraga, noong Nobyembre 25. Nasa burol ng kanyang ina si Duyag nang arestuhin siya bandang alas-9:30 ng gabi. Dinala siya sa Butuan PNP Station 1 at sinampahan ng gawa-gawang mga kasong bigong pagpatay.

Liban sa gawa-gawa ang kaso, pinuna rin ang paglabag sa prosesong ligal. Walang paunang abiso kay Duyag na mayroong kasong nakasampa sa kanya at nagulat na lamang siya nang hinainan siya ng mandamyento sabay ng pagdakip sa kanya.

Delegado si Duyag sa pagtitipon ng NAFLU-KMU noong Nobyembre 11, ayon sa sentro. Aktibong siya sa kampanya para sa pagsusulong ng dagdag-sahod at pagpapakilos sa Nobyembre 30 sa kanilang rehiyon.

Pang-apat na si Duyag na lider-manggagawang inaresto ng rehimeng Marcos sa nakaraang dalawang buwan. Bago kay Duyag, inaresto rin sina Kara Taggaoa, Larry Valbuena, at Banjo Cordero sa Maynila. Liban sa apat na pang-aaresto, mayroon pang 25 kaso ng mga pang-aatake sa mga manggagawa at kanilang mga karapatan na naitala ng Center for Trade Union and Human Rights sa ilalim ng kasalukuyang rehimen.

“Nararapat nang matigil ang atake sa mga manggagawa na ang tanging hangad ay magkaroon ng sapat upang buhayin ang kanilang mga pamilya,” pahayag ng KMU ngayong araw. “Apat na araw bago Nobyembre 30, ang malaking pagkilos ng mga manggagawa para sa umento sa sahod, pasismo ang sagot ng estado!”

Nangako ang sentro na hindi aatras at lalupang palalakasin ang sama-samang pagkilos ng mga manggagawa sa gitna ng lumalalang krisis sa ekonomya.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/lider-manggagawa-ng-caraga-arbitraryong-inaresto/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Armadong pagtatanggol ng BHB sa mamamayan laban sa AFP//Limang aksyong militar, inilunsad sa Negros

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 27, 2022): Armadong pagtatanggol ng BHB sa mamamayan laban sa AFP//Limang aksyong militar, inilunsad sa Negros (NPA's armed defense of the people against the AFP//Five military actions, launched in Negros)

 


Limang aksyong militar sa nagdaang linggo ang inilunsad ng mga yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Negros laban sa mga tropa ng berdugong militar. Bahagi ito ng mga pagsisikap ng mga Pulang mandirigma para labanan ang mga pasistang naninibasib sa mga sibilyan at mga komunidad ng magsasaka sa isla. Inilunsad ang mga aksyong ito sa gitna ng inilulunsad ng AFP na mga focus military operation.

Nobyembre 25. Pinaputukan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ng BHB Leonardo Panaligan Command (BHB-LPC) ang PNP substation sa Sityo Parkingan, Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, alas 5:00 ng hapon. Isang pulis ang sugatan.

Nobyembre 24. Tinambangan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ng BHB-Southwest Negros ang mga sundalo ng 47th IB sa Sityo Camboguiot, Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City. Napatay sa pananambang ang dalawang intelligence officer ng nasabing yunit na sina Sgt. Regie Glendro at Staff Sgt. Ken Camilan.

Nobyembre 23. Naglunsad ng operasyong pagharas ang BHB sa isang Army Patrol Base sa Barangay Sandayao, Guihulngan City, alas 6:30 ng gabi. Isang sundalo ng 62nd IB ang sugatan.

Nobyembre 21. Hinaras ng BHB ang isang platun ng pasistang tropa ng 62nd IB sa Sityo Tuko, Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City. Dalawang sundalo ang napatay. Sa araw ding iyon, inisnayp ng isa pang yunit ng BHB-LPC ang hiwalay na platun ng 62nd IB na nag-ooperasyon sa parehong lugar. Isang sundalo ang sugatan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/limang-aksyong-militar-inilunsad-sa-negros/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Motorcade at iba pang aktibidad para sa dagdag-sahod, inilunsad

Posted to Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis (Nov 27, 2022): Motorcade at iba pang aktibidad para sa dagdag-sahod, inilunsad (Motorcade and other extra-wage activities, launched)

November 27, 2022

Naglunsad kanina ng motorcade at maiiksing programa sa dinaanang mga palengke mula Monumento hanggang Quezon City ang mga manggagawa sa ilalim ng Kilusang Mayo Uno para manghikayat sa publiko na makiisa sa panawagan para sa dagdag-sahod at pagpapababa ng mga presyo ng bilihin. Bahagi ito ng mga aktibidad bago ang pagkilos sa Nobyembre 30, na tinawag nilang Araw ng Masang Anakpawis, kasabay sa Araw ni Andres Bonifacio. Pinangunahan ang motorcade ng ADLO-KMU.

“Pare-pareho tayo ng hirap na dinaranas kaya kinakailangan ding sama-sama tayong kumilos!” panawagan nila. “Hindi natin kailangang magtiis, nararapat lamang na tayo’y lumaban!”

Sa umaga, namigay ng mga polyeto at nagpapirma ng petisyon sa Pureza St, malapit sa Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Pinangunahan ito ng Samahang Janitorial sa PUP sa ilalim ng NAFLU-KMU.

Noong Nobyembre 26, nagpahayag ng suporta sa panawagan ang mga manggagawa sa pier mula sa Samahang Manggagawa sa Philippine Span Asia Carrier Corp (SMPSACC-NAFLU-KMU). Bago nito, nagkaisa ang mga manggagawa sa ilalim ng Fujiweld Workers Union (FWU-NAFLU-KMU) na dadalo sila sa gagawing protesta sa Nobyembre 30. Pinagtibay ang kaisahang ito sa kanilang General Assembly na isinagawa noong Nobyembre 25. Makakasama nila ang mga kontraktwal na manggagawa sa kanilang kumpanya. Nakiisa at nangako ring lalahok sa mga pagkilos ang United Workers of Hi-Grade Feeds.

Samantala, isinumite noong Nobyembre 24 ng mga drayber ng Grab sa Iloilo ang kanilang papeles sa upisina ng Department of Labor and Employment sa syudad para pormal na irehistro ang kanilang unyon. Nagkaisa ang 200 tagadeliber na drayber ng Grab sa syudad na itayo ang Iloilo Grab Riders Union o IGRU para igiit ang nakabubuhay na sahod, sapat na benepisyo, kaligtasan sa trabaho at makatarungang representasyon sa kumpanya. Ito ang pinakaunang independyenteng unyon sa hanay ng mga delivery rider sa bansa.

Naglunsad ang mga drayber ng unity ride sa araw na iyon tungo sa upisina ng DOLE.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/motorcade-at-iba-pang-aktibidad-para-sa-dagdag-sahod-inilunsad/

CPP/MAKIBAKA: Pagbisita ni Kamala Harris, mapanlinlang at mapagpanggap!

Posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Nov 27, 2022): Pagbisita ni Kamala Harris, mapanlinlang at mapagpanggap! (Kamala Harris visit, deceitful and pretentious!)

Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (Makibaka)

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

November 27, 2022

Ang pagtapak ni USVP Kamala Harris sa bansa ay nagdulot ng samo’t saring kahulugang pampulitika at pang-ekonomiya. Hindi ito ang unang beses na lumapag sa bansa ang isang lider ng imperyalistang Estados Unidos. Ngunit may natatangi sa naunang pagdalaw ng ikalawang pangulo ng Imperyalistang US sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Marcos Jr. Matatandaang sa pamumuno ng kanyang amang diktador, isa sa mga unang diplomatikong bisita ng kanyang rehimen ang bise-presidente rin ng US na si Spiro Agnew. Eskandaloso at marahas ang pagbisitang ito na nagdulot ng mga paglabag sa karapatang pantao lalo pa ng mga kabilang sa kilusang kabataan-estudyante. Iligal na pinadampot at pinakulong ng pasistang rehimen ni Marcos Sr. ang mga nagprotestang militante laban sa pagbisita ni Agnew.

Sa pagkakataong ito, buong lugod na namang tinanggap ng rehimeng US-Marcos II ang pagbisita ng Imperyalistang US sa katauhan ni Harris. Maraming karangalang ipinagmamalaki si Harris bilang politiko at bilang babae. Isa na rito ang ipinangangalandakan niyang tagumpay bilang unang babaeng Black American at South Asian na naluklok sa pagiging bise-presidente. Ang pagkakaroon ng diplomatikong tagumpay bilang babae rin ang parehong litanya niya sa pagtapak sa bansa. Mistulang ginawa ito upang ikubli ang tunay na dahilan ng pagbisita ni Harris dito, ang pagtutulak ng mga di pantay na kasunduan sa ekonomiya, at ang militaristang agenda nito kabilang na ang kontra-insurhensiyang kampanya at pagpapatatag sa EDCA. Tiyak na hindi mapapabango ng kanyang superpisyal na personahe ang pangangaladkad ng USI sa Pilipinas sa kanyang pang-uupat ng gyera at pagpapalawak ng arsenal na nukleyar sa Asya-Pasipiko.

Hindi rin nakapagtataka na aagos ang makitid at mababaw na diskurso ni Harris sa pagiging babae sa kanyang talumpating ibinahagi kamakailan. Pinapurihan niya ang mga katulad ni Josefa Llanes Escoda, Concepcion Calderon, at Corazon Aquino bilang huwaran sa pagiging matagumpay na kababaihan dahil diumano sa kanilang ipinamalas na husay sa larangan ng sosyo-sibiko at pulitika. Iminungkahi ni Harris na tularan ang kagalingan ng mga nabanggit na lider-kababaihan sa ngalan ng pagpapakita sa pantay na kalidad at kakayahan ng kababaihan at kalalakihan. Payo din niyang bumaling ang kababaihan sa pag-aaral ng pinansya at pagbabangko kung nais raw nilang umunlad at umalpas sa iba’t ibang karahasan.

Pinapakita lamang nito ang baluktot at malabnaw na pag-unawa ng mga reaksyunaryo at naghaharing uri sa sanhi ng kahirapan at ng karahasan sa kababaihan. Napakalaking bilang ng kababaihang anakpawis ng daigdig ang dumaranas nang matinding kahirapan dulot ng imperyalistang pandarambong at pagsasamantala ng US at iba pang imperyalista. Patuloy ang pagwasak ng mga pwersa sa produksyon kung saan milyon-milyong kababaihan ang dumaranas ng disempleyo, underemployement, napakababang pasahod at nagtutulak sa higit na impormalisasyon ng paggawa. Kaya hindi makakamit ang ‘women empowerment’ sa pagkakahon sa istandard ng mga burges na kababaihang nabanggit, ni sa indibidwalistang pagpapakahusay sa pinansya. Ang makalulutas sa pagkabusabos at pang-aapi sa kababaihan ay ang sama-samang pagkilos at paglahok sa makauring digmaan.

Lingid sa kamalayan ni Harris at higit pa sa mga burges na pamantayan ng pamumuno at tagumpay ng kababaihan, ang Pilipinas ay isang bansang may mayamang kasaysayan ng rebolusyonaryong emansipasyon ng kababaihan. Buhat pa noong ika – 17 siglo, aktibo nang lumalahok ang kababaihan sa mga anti-kolonyal at anti-pyudal na pagkilos gaya ni Gabriela Silang. Maraming kababaihan ang buong giting na kumikilos para sa pakikipaglaban sa karapatang pantao at para sa tunay na kalayaan. Hindi maaaring limutin ang ambag ng mga Katipunera sa pagpupunyagi ng Himagsikang Pilipino. Gayundin ang kababaihang unyonista sa bungad ng ika-20 siglo na kalauna’y naging bahagi ng mga kilusang anti-imperyalista. Lalong higit, pinagpupugayan ng sambayanang Pilipino ang katulad ni Ma. Lorena Barros na pangulong tagapagtatag ng Makabayang Kilusang ng Bagong Kababaihan, ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan ng kababaihan sa bansa. Matayog na ang nilakbay ng MAKIBAKA bilang tagapanguna sa kilusang pagpapalaya sa kababaihan sa Pilipinas. Nagluwal ito ng hindi mabilang na kababaihang martir ng sambayanan. Ilan dito sina Kamil Manangan, Jo Lapira at Ciela Mae Pacaldo na nagbuwis ng buhay limang taon na ang nakararaan habang naglilingkod sa masa sa kanayunan. Sina Barros, Manangan, Lapira, at Pacaldo ay pawang pinaslang ng mga berdugong militar ng pasistang rehimen nina Marcos Sr. at Duterte. Sa kanilang kabataan ay namuno sila at tinanganan ang kanilang mga tungkulin sa hayag na kilusan at sa lihim, at inialay ang kanilang buhay bago pa man sila mag-edad 30. Pinagpupugayan natin sila sa kanilang walang pasubaling pagtangan sa armadong pakikibaka at paglilingkod sa masa.

Ito ang tagumpay na hindi masusukat at maiaangkop sa burges at walang katuturang pamantayan ng kinatawan ng imperyalistang US gaya ni Kamala Harris. Ang tagumpay ng maraming kababaihang rebolusyonaryo ay tanging nakakamit sa tunay at ganap na pagyakap sa demokratikong rebolusyong bayan. Lalong higit, ito ang tagumpay na binibigyang-pugay ng sambayanang kumikilala at lumalahok sa makabuluhang landas ng rebolusyonaryong emansipasyon ng kababaihan sa Pilipinas.

Mabuhay ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan ng kababaihan sa Pilipinas at sa buong mundo!
Kababaihan tumungo sa kanayunan, lumahok sa digmang bayan!
Mabuhay ang MAKIBAKA!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pagbisita-ni-kamala-harris-mapanlinlang-at-mapagpanggap/

Kalinaw News: CHMSU students warned against NPA recruitment

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 27, 2022): CHMSU students warned against NPA recruitment

BATO, Sagay City, Negros Occidental— Students taking up the NSTP at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) in Talisay City joined the Peace Advocacy Symposium and Insurgency Awareness Campaign organized by the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion on November 26, 2022.

About 1,500 students of three (3) components of National Service Training Program (NSTP) the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), Civic Welfare Training Seevice (CWTS), and Literacy Training Service (LTS), as well as the faculty and staff of CHMSU participated in the said activity.

Through a series of lectures, interactive discussion and sharing of testimonies by former rebels themselves, the activity was aimed to educate and increase the awareness of the students on the nature of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) including its deceptive propaganda and manipulative recruitment strategy particularly of the youth sector.

Moreover, the students were also briefed on how to join the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police including its recruitment process to include their important role in nation-building.

NSTP Director Dr. Elmer A. Gumban commended 79th IB for initiating the symposium and reminded the students of the importance of NSTP and their role in peace-building.

Meanwhile, 79IB Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines also thanked the students for their active participation during the activity. He likewise extended his heartfelt gratitude to the management and staff of CHMSU for allowing the conduct of the symposium that was aimed to increase the awareness of students on CTG deceptive propaganda and recruitment efforts.

“Our youth is one of the most vulnerable sectors in our society. Hence, we must protect them from being lured into joining the CTG and used as pawns to perpetuate their false ideology, human right abuses and other terroristic activities. Rest assured that your Philippine Army together with the PNP and other partner agencies, will continue to be in full force to prevent the terrorist group from recruiting and destroying our youth’s future,” said Ltc Javines.

Among those who graced the activity were Talisay City Councilor and Committee Chairman for Peace and Order Hon. Kenn Thomas P. Tirthdas, ROTC Commandant Lt.Col. Nathaniel R Villasor, Chief Operation Officer of 6SAB-SAF PLt. Fritz Vallador, University Student Government President Lovelyn Jameszen Berbano and Pastor Ardy Dela Fuente.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. e-mail: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com

https://www.kalinawnews.com/chmsu-students-warned-against-npa-recruitment/

Kalinaw News: Army and PNP Ops Seize CTG’s War Materials in Sorsogon

Posted to Kalinaw News (Nov 27, 2022): Army and PNP Ops Seize CTG’s War Materials in Sorsogon

Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur – Based on a report from an enraged individual, the Army and PNP in Sorsogon seized another Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) war materials in Barangay Hidhid, Matnog, Sorsogon, at around 8:45 in the morning on Saturday, November 26.

The newly installed Commanding Officer of 22nd Infantry Battalion, (22IB)Lt. Col. Allan Mangaser, said that the troops received an information from an irate local regarding the hideout of the CTG. As the government forces responded, they unearthed another CTG’s arms cache that includes two caliber 38, nine improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and more or less 250 rounds of assorted ammunition.

BGen. Aldwine Almase, Commander of 903rd Infantry Brigade, once again applauded the positive collaboration of government troops and the Sorsoganons.

” Sa mga Sorosoganons, huwag na po natin bigyan ng pagkakataon na makapag hasik pa ng terorismo ang mga CTG sa ating probinsya. Kaakibat nyo po kami sa adhikain na masupil na ang mga armado upang maging tuloy-tuloy na ang kapayapaan dito sa Sorsogon at upang mas lalo pa po itong umunlad,” BGen. Almase said.

Meanwhile, Major General Alex Luna, Commander of 9th Infantry (SPEAR) Division and Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB), described the said operation as an additional winning factor of the government troops against the continuous dwindling capabilities of the CTG in the region.

“Dagdag na naman ito sa ating panalo sa kampanya natin laban sa insurhensiya dito sa Bicol. Dahil ang pagkakadiskobre ng nasabing mga armas ay tiyak na mas lalong mapipilayan ang CTG at maging sanhi ng tuluyan nilang pagkawala. Ngunit ang JTF Bicolandia sa kabila ng aming agresibong kampanya upang supilin na ang mga armadong terorista, ay hindi pa din nagsasawang paalalahanan ang mga natitira pang kasapi nito (CTG), na sumuko na lamang at bumalik sa kani-kanilang pamilya lalo pa’t paparating na ang pasko,” MGen. Luna said.

Last November 08, in the same province, arms cache was also discovered which resulted in the seizure of several CTG important materials and the simultaneous surrender of its member in Barangay Barbara, Bulusan.

Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. e-mail: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-and-pnp-ops-seize-ctgs-war-materials-in-sorsogon/

Peace Week marked

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 28, 2022): Peace Week marked (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander and PCol. Leo Pamittan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, led the Peace Week celebration at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon and Park in Bacolod City.* Capitol PIO photo

The provincial government of Negros Occidental led the marking of Peace Week celebration on November 25 at the Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City, joined by top military and police officials in the province.

“Through this year’s theme, Building Sustainable Peace and Development, we acknowledge the fact that the attainment of our sustainable development goals, will always be incomplete in the absence of peace,” Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said.

“Today, we are reminded once again that our stability rests upon the healing of the rifts that divide our nation; that better understanding between all sectors, and of limiting discord are the indispensable aspects of both progress and peace,” Lacson added.

The activity was in collaboration with the Negros Cultural Foundation, The Negros Museum, Slow Food Community and Negros Occ. Office of the Provincial Agriculturist.

It is celebrated simultaneously with the ongoing 15th Negros Island Organic Farmers’ Festival.

Lacson acknowledged the PNP, Philippine Army and different multi-sectoral groups, and all peace stakeholders, for gathering to start the week of peace with simultaneous community candle lighting and prayer.

Also joining the peace week activity were Brig. Gen. Inocencio Pasaporte, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, and PCol.Leo Pamittan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental.

https://visayandailystar.com/peace-week-marked/

NSA adviser slams CPP-NPA for killing 2 Army soldiers

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 28, 2022): NSA adviser slams CPP-NPA for killing 2 Army soldiers (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

National Security Adviser (NSA) Clarita Carlos condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) for the brutal shooting of two soldiers on November 24 in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.

“Despite our successful operations and other commendable milestones in promoting peace during these past few weeks in Visayas, it is still infuriating and saddening to hear these kinds of news,” in a statement said Carlos, also vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

She added that “these tragedies or atrocities will continue until the insurgency and terrorism problem is resolved with finality.”

Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, spokesperson of the Legal Cooperation Cluster of the Regional Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict in Western Visayas, has described the ambush as a “senseless, unjustified, and cowardly act,” perpetrated by rebels.

“These killings are senseless, unjustified, and serve no purpose other than to affirm the fact that the CPP-NDF-NPA is a terrorist organization that has brought misery, suffering, and death to our people,” he said.

Gonzales added that they condemn CPP-NDF-NPA and the acts of violence that they commit against this nation and against its people.

He also said the task force also honors the fallen soldiers who put their lives on the line to serve and to protect the nation’s freedom.

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division also strongly condemned the merciless killing of two of its personnel, following the admission of the New People’s Army Armando Sumayang Command that they were behind the deaths on November 24 in Sitio Cambugiot, Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.

Killed in the rebel-initiated ambush were SSgt. Ken Camilan and Sgt. Regie Glindro, both intelligence operatives of the 47th Infantry Battalion.

The two Army soldiers were on their way to Sitio Cambogiot proper in the barangay on board a motorcycle when an armed group of suspected rebels opened fire at them. Both victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot, according to initial reports of the Sipalay City Police Station.

https://visayandailystar.com/nsa-adviser-slams-cpp-npa-for-killing-2-army-soldiers/

Carlos lauds Army for crushing NPA in Iloilo

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 27, 2022): Carlos lauds Army for crushing NPA in Iloilo (By Azer Parrocha)

National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos (File photo)

MANILA – National Security Adviser (NSA) Clarita Carlos lauded the Philippine Army troops for their triumph against the communist New People's Army (NPA) in a clash in Igbaras, Iloilo on Saturday.

The Philippine Army said an NPA member was killed and three high-powered firearms were recovered while no casualty was reported on their side.

Carlos, who is also vice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), said their victory was a “milestone” in ongoing efforts to dismantle guerrilla fronts in the country.

"Napakalaki ng pasasalamat ko sa mga sundalo ng 61st Infantry Battalion para sa tagumpay na ito (I am very grateful to the soldiers of the 61st Infantry Battalion for this victory). This is a significant milestone in our mission of totally eliminating the communist influence in Visayas," Carlos said in a press statement on Sunday.

"Malinaw ang ating government policy at guidance ng Pangulo sa ating laban kontra insurgency (Our government policy and the President's guidance in our fight against insurgency are clear),” she added.

She also urged NPA members to surrender to avoid bloodshed.

“Patuloy ang ating panawagang pangkapayapaan para sa mga natitirang miyembro na nais ng magbalik-loob (Our call for peace continues for the remaining members who want to return to the government fold),” she said.

Carlos said the military will never neglect on its duty to protect Filipinos despite weakening NPA forces.

Meanwhile, 3rd Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Benedict Arevalo conveyed his sadness over what he described as another “pointless demise of another fellow Filipino.”

“As much as possible, we want to make them realize that joining armed struggle is not the answer to attaining societal change, and we don’t want another victim and lives to be wasted. We are so much concerned for their families suffering their loss,” Arevalo said.

On Friday, Carlos said the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is keen on providing multi-faceted opportunities to former rebels as part of its counter-insurgency efforts and whole-of-nation approach against insurgent groups.

Carlos also underscored the importance of peacebuilding for economic growth.

"The magic word really is to ‘sustain’ it, because no economic growth will happen, whenever there is no peace and order," she said during the recent Regional Development Security Forum in Zamboanga City.

Under the Marcos administration, the NTF-ELCAC continues to intensify its delivery of its priority programs to encourage the remaining members of the rebel armed groups to avail the local integration program of the government and to return to the fold of the law.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189553

LEDAC plays active part in gov’t policies, MDT

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 27, 2022): LEDAC plays active part in gov’t policies, MDT (By Leonel Abasola)

MANILA – The Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is taking an active part in the government’s programs and review of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the Philippines and the United States.

The LEDAC will also be involved in a possible joint exploration talk in the West Philippine Sea between Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said in a radio interview on Sunday.

Gatchalian, vice chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, said he will support the MDT review, saying it is about time to revisit it as the situation has changed since its enactment in 1951.

“May mga item kasi na hindi klaro, like for example, in case of invasion, ‘di ba may mga interpretation issues in the past? Ano ba ang ibig sabihin ng invasion? Sa mainland ba papasok o sa exclusive economic zone? Kapag pumasok ba sa karagatan natin o territorial waters natin, invasion na ba ‘yan? (There are items that are unclear. Like in case of an invasion, there were interpretation issues in the past. What does invasion mean? Does it mean invading our mainland or entering our exclusive economic zone? Entering our territorial waters?)” Gatchalian said.

The MDT affirms the “sense of unity” and the two countries’ “common determination to defend themselves against external armed attack, so that no potential aggressor could be under the illusion that either of them stands alone in the Pacific Area.”

Talks of the MDT surfaced during US Vice President Kamala Harris’ visit last week, days after the bilateral meeting between Marcos and Xi on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.

Harris told Marcos during their meeting in Malacañang on Nov. 22 that “we stand with you in defense of international rules and norms as it relates to the South China Sea.”

She said “an armed attack on the Philippines armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the South China Sea would invoke US mutual defense commitments” and “upholding those international rules and norms in all of the ways that we know allow for, again, prosperity and security for our respective nations in the region.”

Under Republic Act 7640 that created the LEDAC, all treaties must be approved by the council before implementation, although the possible exploration is not a treaty.

Gatchalian said the Senate can use its oversight functions to know the terms and conditions entered into by the two countries.

“Ang intention maganda, mag-partner tayo at hanapin natin ang langis pero napakahirap at komplikado dahil sasabihin ng China dapat sundin ang batas nila. Sasabihin natin dapat sundin ang batas natin dahil nasa exclusive economic zone natin (The intention is good, we can be partners and search for oil, but it is complicated. China will insist on using their law and we will also insist on using our law since it is within our exclusive economic zone),” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189560

5 NPA members yield to police in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 27, 2022): 5 NPA members yield to police in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

RENEWED LIVES. Five members of the New People’s Army yield to the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) on Saturday (Nov. 26, 2022) in Butuan City. The PRO-13 said the former NPA rebels will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program to avail the government assistance needed to renew their lives when they return to their families and communities. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13 Information Office)

BUTUAN CITY – Five members of the New People’s Army, including a local supply officer, surrendered to authorities Saturday.

In a statement Sunday, the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) said the five NPA members, who belonged to Guerilla Front 21, sub-regional Command Westland of the North Eastern Regional Committee, surrendered to the personnel of the Regional Intelligence Division.

Police identified the five through their aliases only as Bebz, 33; Xander, 33; Baloy, 32; Hope, 44; and Karen, 33.

“Alias ‘Bebz’ has been in the communist movement for more than 13 years and was responsible for gathering and delivery of the supplies needed by the rebels,” the PRO-13 said, while the others have been in the movement for 12 years.

PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II said the rebels decided to surrender following the government’s aggressive anti-terrorism drive.

“We will continue the momentum in mobilizing a comprehensive approach in ending insurgency and terrorism in the Caraga Region,” Labra said.

The five, he added, will undergo a process where they can avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1189546