2 MNLF groups in Sulu unite for peace

From the Manila Times (Feb 15, 2023): 2 MNLF groups in Sulu unite for peace (By Al Jacinto)

ZAMBOANGA CITY: For the sake of peace, the leaders of two opposing Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) groups in the southern Philippine province of Sulu have finally agreed to unite following a recent mediation facilitated by Vice Gov. Toto Tan.

The peace talks, held in the village of Pasil in Indanan town, was attended by senior MNLF leaders and hundreds of members and supporters.

MNLF vice chairman and BTA Parliament Deputy Speaker Ustadz Abdulkarim Tan Misuari joined the settlement efforts for peace and unity between the two disputing groups. Misuari, in a post on his Facebook page, said he emphasized repeatedly the need for the MNLF to "unite and work hand-in-hand towards the protection and preservation of our Hula, Bangsa, and Agama."

In pursuing peace and unity, Misuari cited the Quranic verse "There is no good in most of their secret talks save him who orders Sadaqah (charity in Allah's Cause), or Ma'roof (Islamic Monotheism and all the good and righteous deeds which Allah has ordained), or conciliation between mankind, and he who does this, seeking the good Pleasure of Allah, we shall give him a great reward." [an-Nisa' 4:114, The Holy Quran].

The move to settle the differences of the two groups was made possible through the intervention of other prominent MNLF leaders, including BARMM Deputy Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Albakil Jikiri.

Jikiri emphasized the importance of MNLF unity and reconciliation.

"We need to unite and reconcile if only to restore the glory and strength of our revolutionary past. As our revolutionary struggle is still halfway to the finish line," he said.

The vice governor also assured the MNLF that the provincial and municipal governments are all supportive of the settlement efforts and sees it as a way to maintain peace and security of the people in Sulu.

"Like a broom, when all are bound together, and not scattered all over we can be stronger and make a difference towards peace and development of our province," Tan said.

The two warring groups amicably settled their differences and misunderstandings in order to give full recognition and support to the current initiatives for MNLF unity and reconciliation.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/02/15/news/regions/2-mnlf-groups-in-sulu-unite-for-peace/1878706

NPA rebel involved in two encounters with gov’t troops surrenders in Quezon

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 14, 2023): NPA rebel involved in two encounters with gov’t troops surrenders in Quezon (By Danny Estacio)

QUEZON — An active member of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was involved in a series of encounters in San Andres and San Francisco towns surrendered to the authorities on Monday noon, Feb. 13, in Lopez town.

The report identified the rebel as Cesario Santoria, 54, whose aliases are ‘Sario,’ ‘Julie,’ and ‘Roland.’ He is a native of Lopez town.

Santoria is a member of Squad Bekeng, Platun Reymark of the Sub-Regional Military Area4B, Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (SRMA4B, STRPC).

He confessed that one of the purposes of the rebels’ venture in Bondoc Peninsula coming from Camarines Sur is to reconnect with the remaining rebels.

Alias Sario was among the rebels that were involved in the encounters between the military on Jan. 27 in San Andres and on Jan. 29 in San Francisco towns wherein three rebels were killed and one was wounded.

Santoria surrendered to the combined elements of the 2nd Quezon Provincial Mobile Force Company, Lopez Police, 405th Maneuvers Company, and Regional Mobile Force Batallion4A in collaboration with the 85th Infantry Battalion and Parañaque City Police Station.

The surrender of Ka Sario was the result of the continuous efforts of government forces and local government to clear the Bondoc Peninsula of the presence and influence of the so-called Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).

Santoria or Ka Sario is now under custodial debriefing.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/02/14/npa-rebel-involved-in-two-encounters-with-govt-troops-surrenders-in-quezon/

Philippines President: ‘We’re Very Much on the Front Line’

From the conservative National Review (Feb 14, 2023): Philippines President: ‘We’re Very Much on the Front Line’ (By JIMMY QUINN)

Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr review the honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, January 4, 2023.(cnsphoto via Reuters)

In the wake a flurry of diplomatic and military moves that further cemented the U.S.–Philippines defense relationship, Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said during an interview with Japan’s Nikkei Asia that his country would almost certainly be pulled into a conflict between the U.S. and China over Taiwan.

During the Nikkei interview on Sunday, Marcos did not explicitly say that his country would aid a U.S. effort to defend Taiwan. But a series of recent moves speaks to his thinking on these matters.

Earlier this month, the Biden administration clinched a deal to gain U.S. access to four more military bases in the Philippines, adding to five facilities to which it already has some level of limited access. The additional bases are understood to be located in the country’s north, closer to Taiwan.

“When we look at the situation in the area, especially the tensions in the Taiwan Strait, we can see that just by our geographical location, should there in fact be a conflict in that area . . . it’s very hard to imagine a scenario where the Philippines will not somehow get involved,” he said, toward the end of a trip to Japan last week.

“I always remind everyone that Kaohsiung in Taiwan is a 40-minute flight away from my province,” he said, referring to the southern Taiwanese city and the northern Philippine province of Ilocos Norte.

Kaohsiung is a significant shipping hub, and the city’s port is a likely target for Chinese forces in the event of an invasion. Some American military personnel stationed on Taiwan — where the U.S. maintains a light, unacknowledged presence of sorts — have expressed an interest in visiting and studying the Port of Kaohsiung.

“So we feel that we’re very much on the front line,” he added.

Marcos told Nikkei that a possible visiting-forces deal in which Japan would station some of its forces in the Philippines is “certainly under study.” He also addressed the long-standing territorial disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.

While there was some worry that the Philippines was inching toward closer ties with China during the administration of Marcos’s predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, the current president has reversed that trend.

https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/philippines-president-were-very-much-on-the-front-line/

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Na-stroke at nagpapagaling na Pulang mandirigma, dalawa pa, minasaker ng militar

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 14, 2023): Na-stroke at nagpapagaling na Pulang mandirigma, dalawa pa, minasaker ng militar (Stroke-stricken and recovering Red fighter, two others, massacred by the military)

 

February 12, 2023

Walang-awa at sadyang pinatay ng mga sundalo ng 94th IB ang isang Pulang mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)-South Central Negros na nagpapagaling matapos ma-stroke kasama ang isang medik ng BHB na nag-aasikaso sa kanya at isang magsasaka noong Pebrero 5 sa Barangay Oringao, Kabankalan City.

Ayon sa ulat, ilang araw nang nagpapagaling sa isang bahay sa Sityo Mugni sa naturang barangay ang Pulang mandirigmang si Arjen Mahinay (Ka Nonong) matapos ma-stroke. Kasama niya ang upisyal sa medikal na si Junjun Callet (Ka Roben) nang dakpin sila ng mga sundalo noong Pebrero 4 ng alas-4 ng hapon.

Liban sa kanila, dinakip din ng mga berdugo ang magsasakang si Jomarie Calumba sa parehong sityo. Inaasikaso niya ang kanyang kalabaw nang pag-initan siya ng mga sundalo at iligal na dinakip.

Sa sumunod na araw, pinalabas ng 94th IB na napatay ang tatlo sa isang engkwentro sa lugar bandang alas-5 ng hapon. Nagkaroon umano ng 20-minutong bakbakan na nagresulta sa pagkamatay ng tatlo. Pinalilitaw pa ng militar na nakumpiska sa kanila ang isang ripleng M14, dalawang pistola at mga kagamitang militar.

“Lubos na kinukundena ng BHB-South Central Negros ang ginawang ito ng AFP! Kaisa ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa panawagang hustisya sa mga biktima,” pahayag ni Ka Dionesio Magbuelas, tagapagsalita ng yunit ng BHB.

Aniya, labag sa Internasyunal na Makataong Batas (IHL) ang ginawang pagdakip, pagtortyur at sadyang pagpatay sa dalawang hors de combat na mga Pulang mandirigma, at isang sibilyan.

Hindi na bago ang ganitong paglapastangan ng Armed Forces of the Philippines sa IHL. Simula 2016, mahigit 100 aktibo at retiradong kasapi ng PKP, BHB, mga konsultant at tauhan ng NDFP at kasama nilang mga sibilyan na nadakip, sugatan o wala sa katayuang lumaban, ang labag sa batas na pinatay ng mga armadong pwersa ng GRP.

Hinimok ng BHB-South Central Negros ang lokal na gubyerno, mga taong simbahan at iba pang mga grupo ng tagapagtanggol ng karapatang-tao na tulungan ang pamilya ng mga biktima na makamtan ang hustisya. Ani Magbuelas, dapat igiit ang isang imbestigasyon sa karumal-dumal na krimeng ito ng 94th IB at papanagutin ang mga sangkot.

Ang 94th IB ay pinamumunuan ni Ltc. Van Donald Almonte. Itinalaga si Almonte bilang kumander ng berdugong batalyon noong Marso 2022. Sila ang reponsable sa napakaraming paglabag sa karapatang-tao sa Binalbagan, Himamaylan City at Kabankalan City sa Negros Occidental at sa mga bayan ng Jimalalud, Tayasan, Ayungon, Bindoy at Manjuyod sa Negros Oriental.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/na-stroke-at-nagpapagaling-na-pulang-mandirigma-dalawa-pa-minasaker-ng-militar/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Konsultant ng NDFP, sibilyan, dinukot ng militar noong Pebrero 6

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 14, 2023): Konsultant ng NDFP, sibilyan, dinukot ng militar noong Pebrero 6 (NDFP consultant, civilian, abducted by the military on February 6)

 

February 12, 2023

Dalawang kaso ng pagdukot o desaparesidos ang naitala noong Pebrero 6. Naiulat na dinukot ng mga pwersa ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang konsultant ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) na si Ariel Badiang sa Bukidnon at ang sibilyan na si G. Elyong sa Oriental Mindoro. Parehong hindi pa sila inililitaw hanggang sa kasalukuyan.

Si Badiang, 64, ay dinukot ng mga pwersa ng estado sa Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. Ang kanyang pamilya ay humingi ng tulong sa publiko sa pagtunton ng kinaroroonan ni Badiang at para makita nila siya at mapuntahan.

Ayon sa grupong Karapatan, “kung nasa kustodiya siya ng AFP, giit namin na kagyat na ilitaw si Badiang, at dapat nilang igalang ang kanyang konstitusyunal na karapatan gayunin ang mga karapatan niya sa ilalim ng internasyunal na makataong batas.”

Sa Oriental Mindoro, dinukot ng mga pwersa ng 203rd Brigade si G. Elyong, residente ng Sitio Sinariri, Brgy. Panaytayan, Mansalay. Papunta siya sa tindahan para bumili ng kape nang siya’y dakpin ng mga sundalo. Kinuha siya ng sampung sundalo sa harap ng mga residente nang walang ipinakikitang kasulatan o paliwanag sa dahilan ng pagdakip.

Sa tala ng Ang Bayan, hindi bababa sa 26 na ang biktima ng iligal na pagdukot ng mga pwersa ng estado sa ilalim ng rehimeng Marcos. Sa mga ito, 13 ang nananatiling nawawala, 9 ang paglao’y inilitaw at 4 ang pinatay.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/konsultant-ng-ndfp-sibilyan-dinukot-ng-militar-noong-pebrero-6/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 17 anyos, pinatay ng 9th ID sa “pekeng engkwentro”

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 14, 2023): 17 anyos, pinatay ng 9th ID sa “pekeng engkwentro” (17 years old, killed by 9th ID in "fake encounter")

February 14, 2023

Pinagbabaril at napatay ng mga tropa ng 9th ID ang 17 anyos na sibilyang si Argie Salvador sa Sityo Sapang Bato, Barangay Canapawan, Labo, Camarines Norte noong Pebrero 11, ala-1:40 ng hapon. Pinalalabas ni Major General Adonis Bajao ng 9th ID na napatay si Salvador sa isang engkwentro ng tropa nito at ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan.

“Mariing pinabubulaanan ng BHB sa Camarines Norte ang napaulat na labanan sa bayan ng Labo noong Sabado,” pahayag ni Carlito Cada, tagapasalita ng BHB sa prubinsya. Aniya, si Salvador ay hindi kasapi ng BHB at isang sibilyang katutubong Manide na taga-Tanauan, Capalonga. Paliwanag pa ni Cada batay sa kanilang imbestigasyon, si Salvador ay naghahanap ng pulot (honey) nang pagbabarilin ng mga sundalo. Sa katunayan, aniya, siya ay isang empleyado ng programang TUPAD ng Department of Labor and Employment.

“Kasinungalingan ang sinasabi nilang engkwentro sa pagitan ng kanilang tropa at diumano’y lima-kataong New People’s Army noong 1:40 ng hapon sa Sityo Sapang Bato ng Barangay Canapawan,” paggigiit ni Cada. Pinalalabas pa ng 9th ID na mayroong nakumpiskang baril sa umano’y “engkwentro.”

Hindi na bago ang ganitong taktika ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Sa tala ng Ang Bayan, hindi bababa sa 15 ang mga sibilyan at magsasakang pinaslang sa ilalim ng rehimeng Marcos na pinalabas ng AFP na mga armadong kombatant ng BHB na napaslang sa gawa-gawang mga engkwentro.

Liban dito, marumi at mapanlinlang na gawi na nilang lagyan ng mga armas, bala at iba pang gamit militar ang kanilang mga patay na katawan, kuhaan ng litrato at ipakalat sa social media para pagpyestahan ng mga troll ng militar.

“Nananawagan ang BHB-Camarines Norte kay Kapitan Espiras ng barangay Canapawan at kay Mayor Jojo Francisco ng bayan ng Labo na paimbestigahan ang naturang insidente,” pahayag pa ni Cada.

Samantala, suportado ng yunit ng BHB ang pamilya at mga kaanak ng biktima sa panawagang hustisya at pagpapanagot sa mga kriminal na 9th ID.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/17-anyos-pinatay-ng-9th-id-sa-pekeng-engkwentro/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Protesta kontra EDCA, base militar ng US sa Pilipinas, idinaos sa US

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda article posted to the Philippine Revolution Web Central site of the Communist Party of the Philippine (Feb 14, 2023): Protesta kontra EDCA, base militar ng US sa Pilipinas, idinaos sa US (Protest against EDCA, US military base in the Philippines, held in the US)

 

February 14, 2023

Nagprotesta ang mga migranteng Pilipino, kaisa ng mamamayang Amerikano sa Times Square, Midtown Manhattan, New York City noong Pebrero 11 para kundenahin ang pagpapalawak militar ng US sa buong mundo at pagbabase ng mga tropang Amerikano sa Pilipinas sa tabing ng tagibang na Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Nagtipon ang mga grupo sa lugar kasabay ng isinasagawang rekrutment ng US Armed Forces doon.

Pinangunahan ang pagkilos ng Malaya Movement USA, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan)-USA at International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP). Ang protesta ay binansagan nilang “Pambansang Araw ng Pagkilos” para kundenahin ang pagpapalawak ng lakas militar at pang-uupat ng gera ng US sa Asia Pacific. Bitbit nila ang isang malaking balatenggang may panawagan na “US troops out of the Philippines!”

Una nang naglabas ng pahayag ang Malaya Movement USA para ipanawagan ang pagtatanggol sa pambansang soberanya ng Pilipinas at pagbabasura sa mga hindi pantay na tratadong militar nito sa gubyerno ng US.

Binatikos nito ang planong pagdadag ng apat na bagong base militar ng US sa Pilipinas sa bisa ng EDCA. “Magiging siyam na ang base militar sa Pilipinas na isinuko ng naghaharing uri sa kontrol ng US,” ayon pa dito.

“Sa nagdaang anim na buwan, kinausap ng Malacañang ang maraming upisyal ng US na niyakap ang umaalingasaw na reputasyon ng rehimeng Marcos Jr habang nangangako ng pagtataguyod ng karapatang-tao,” paliwanag nila.

Ayon pa dito, hindi na kagulat-gulat na binibigyan ni Marcos Jr ng dagdag na kontrol ang militar ng US. “Tulad ng kanyang ama, nakikipaglaro siya sa dalawang superpower. At ang lohika niya ay kung paanong makakaganansya mula sa tunggalian ng dalawa. Ngunit ito rin ang naghahatid sa Pilipinas sa isang delikadong pusisyon,” giit nila.

Sa harap nito, anang grupo, ang kinakailangan gawin ng mamamayang Pilipino ay igiit ang nagsasariling patakarang panlabas na mangangalaga sa interes ng sambayanan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/protesta-kontra-edca-base-militar-ng-us-sa-pilipinas-idinaos-sa-us/

CPP/NPA-Camarines Norte: Fake News ang sinasabing labanan sa Camarines Norte

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 13, 2023): Fake News ang sinasabing labanan sa Camarines Norte (The alleged battle in Camarines Norte is Fake News)

 


Carlito Cada

Spokesperson

NPA-Camarines Norte (Armando Catapia Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

February 13, 2023

Mariing pinabubulaanan ng NPA sa Camarines Norte ang napaulat na labanan sa bayan ng Labo noong Sabado, Pebrero 11.

Walang naganap o nagaganap na labanan sa naturang lugar katulad ng ipinamamalita ng hepe ng 9th Infantry Division ng Philippine Army na si Major General Adonis Bajao.

Kasinungalingan ang sinasabi nilang enkwentro sa pagitan ng kanilang tropa at lima kataong New People’s Army noong 1:40 ng hapon sa Sityo Sapang Bato ng Barangay Canapawan.

Dinagdagan pa nila ang walang katotohanang kuwento na may isang (1) napaslang na NPA at nakumpiskang baril.

Ang biktima ng pamamaslang ng 9IDPA ay si Argie Salvador, 17 taong gulang, isang katutubong Manide na taga-Tanauan, Capalonga. Kasalukuyan siyang naghahanap ng pulot (honeybee) nang pagbabarilin ng sundalo. Siya ay empleyado ng DOLE-Tupad.

Residenteng sibilyan ang sinasabing napaslang at ang gawa-gawang kuwento ng labanan ay paraan ng 9IDPA para pagtakpan ang anomalya sa kanilang ginawang pagpatay.

Nananawagan ang Armando Catapia Command-NPA kay Kapitan Espiras ng barangay Canapawan at kay Mayor Jojo Francisco ng bayan ng Labo na paimbestigahan ang naturang insidente.

Nananawagan ang Armando Catapia Command sa pamilya ng napaslang, maging sa mamamayan ng Labo na maggiit para sa masusing imbestigasyon sa pangyayari upang makamit ang katarungan at mapanagot ang kriminal at mamamatay-taong 9IDPA.

Tungkulin din ng mga mamamahayag na iberipika ang kanilang iniuulat na balita alang-alang sa pangangalaga sa responsableng pamamahayag.#

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/fake-news-ang-sinasabing-labanan-sa-camarines-norte/

CPP/NDF-Southern Tagalog: Ipagtanggol ang isla ng Sibuyan, Romblon mula sa mapanirang pagmimina!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 13, 2023): Ipagtanggol ang isla ng Sibuyan, Romblon mula sa mapanirang pagmimina! (Defend the island of Sibuyan, Romblon from destructive mining! (Defend the island of Sibuyan, Romblon from destructive mining!)

 


Patnubay de Guia

Spokesperson

NDF-Southern Tagalog

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 13, 2023

Binabati ng NDFP-ST ang mamamayan ng Romblon na tumindig at nagbarikada laban sa pagmimina ng Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) sa isla ng Sibuyan. Dahil sa kanilang paglaban, naobliga ang Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) na ipahinto ang konstruksyon ng causeway project at iba pang aktibidad ng APMC doon.

Makatwiran ang pagpapatigil ng mga taga-Sibuyan sa operasyon ng APMC dahil banta ito sa kaligtasan at kabuhayan ng mamamayan, pati sa mayamang kalikasan ng isla. Ang Sibuyan ay isang maliit na isla na mayroong lawak na 46,600 ektarya. Mayroon itong higit 62,000 na populasyon kung saan karamihan ay magsasaka at mangingisda. Malaking bahagi ng kanilang kabuhayan ang nakaasa sa mga rekurso sa gubat at ilog. Matatagpuan dito ang mga kakaibang hayop at halaman kung saan tampok ang mga endemiko at nanganganib nang maubos na species kagaya ng Philippine hanging parrot, kulasisi at tube-nosed fruit bat. Makapal ang gubat na may 1,551 puno kada ektarya. May apat ding protected area sa isla: ang Mt. Guiting-Guiting National Park, isang marine protected area, isang bakawanan na swamp forest reserve, at ang lupang ninuno ng minoryang grupong Sibuyan Mangyan Tagabukid.

Mariing nilalabanan ng mga taga-Romblon ang lahat ng nagnanais na sumira sa napakayaman at napakaganda nilang isla. Sa katunayan, higit dalawang dekada nang nakikibaka ang mamamayan dito laban sa mga kumpanya ng mina. Tampok ang pagputok ng kanilang laban noong 2007 nang biglaang pahintulutan ng DENR ang pagputol ng mga puno para bigyang daan ang pagmimina ng Sibuyan Nickel Properties Development Corporation (SNPDC). Ang SNPDC ay consortium ng mga kumpanya sa mina kabilang ang APMC. Sa isang protesta sa San Fernando, Romblon noong Oktubre 2007, nagbuwis ng buhay ang konsehal ng bayan na si Armin Marin nang barilin siya ng security ng SNPDC. Sa kabila nito, pinagtaksilan ng rehimeng US-Gloria Arroyo ang mamamayan ng Romblon sa paggawad ng Mineral Production Sharing Agreement sa APMC noong 2009.

Dahil sa masigasig na pakikibaka ng mamamayan, nabigyan ng cease and desist order ang APMC noong 2011. Muli, nakipagkutsaba ang kumpanya sa reaksyunaryong gubyerno sa ilalim ni Rodrigo Duterte. Matapos patalsikin ang maka-kalikasang kalihim ng DENR na si Gina Lopez, tinanggal ang cease and desist order sa APMC. Ayon sa Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)-MIMAROPA, ang pambansang opisina ng MGB ang nagbigay ng permit sa APMC noong Disyembre 29, 2022 na magmina ng 50,000 WMT ng nickle ore kaugnay ng aprubadong eksplorasyon ng kumpanya.

Ang mabilis na pagbawi ng APMC sa permit nito ay nagpapakita ng pagkampi rito ng gubyerno ni Marcos Jr. Nasa likod ng APMC ang pamilyang Gatchalian na sumuporta sa kandidatura ni Marcos Jr. Nasa senado si Sherwin Gatchalian habang bagong itinalagang DSWD secretary si Rex Gatchalian.

Sa harap ng malakas na paglaban ng mamamayan, walang nagawa ang DENR kundi sundin ang kanilang panawagan. Pati ang APMC ay nasandal sa pader at napilitang magpalabas na boluntaryo nitong pinahihinto ang operasyon.

Dapat panghawakan ng mamamayan ang kanilang tagumpay at ang kasaysayan ng kanilang anti-minang pakikibaka. Kailangang tuluy-tuloy na lumaban hanggang maibasura ang kontrata sa mina ng APMC at matiyak na hindi sasalantahin ng anumang operasyon ng mina ang mga isla ng Romblon. Samantala, dapat hanguan ng aral at inspirasyon ng iba pang mamamayan ng TK at buong bansa ang tagumpay ng mga taga-Sibuyan. Sa gitna ng matinding pagkawasak ng kalikasan na pangmatagalang epekto ng mapaminsalang mina sa bansa, dapat paigtingin ang pakikibaka laban dito.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/ipagtanggol-ang-isla-ng-sibuyan-romblon-mula-sa-mapanirang-pagmimina/

CPP/NPA-Masbate: Pagpupugay sa mga rebolusyonaryong martir ng Guiom at Eastern Capsay

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 13, 2023): Pagpupugay sa mga rebolusyonaryong martir ng Guiom at Eastern Capsay (Tribute to the revolutionary martyrs of Guiom and Eastern Capsay)

 


Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

February 13, 2023

Pinakamataas na parangal ang iginagawad ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang Masbatenyo kina Rufino “Ka Caloy” Alva, Samuel “Ka Marjon” Nuynay, Reneboy “Ka Jun” Barzaga, Jerome “Ka Mike” Sabang at Atrocinio “Ka Rey” Aton na napaslang sa isang labanan sa Barangay Guiom, Cawayan, Masbate nito lamang ika-9 ng Pebrero. Sa pag-aalay ng buhay para sa mamamayang Masbatenyo at Pilipino, sila’y pinagpupugayan bilang mga huwarang bayani at tunay na anak ng Masbate at ng buong bayang Pilipinas. Ang kanilang pinakamataas na sakripisyo ay inspirasyon sa mga kapwa nila kasama at sa masang Masbatenyo upang magpunyagi sa buhay-at-kamatayang landas ng rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka.

Sila Ka Caloy at mga kasamahan ay pansamantalang huminto sa lugar upang dinggin ang mga hinaing at problema ng masa, laluna sa usapin ng lupa. Sa pagpatay sa kanila, pinatutunayan ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU ang kanilang katangian bilang Hukbo ng naghaharing-uring mapang-api at mapagsamantala.

Nais ding ipaabot ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang Masbatenyo ang pinakamataas na pagpupugay kay Eleazar “Ka Randy” Ontog, na namartir sa isang depensibang labanan sa Barangay Eastern Capsay, bayan ng Baleno noong Enero 8, 2023. Namatay siya sa edad na 49 anyos. Ipinagmamalaki siya laluna ng mga mamamayan ng islang Ticao, partikular sa bayan ng Monreal na kanyang tinubuan.

Ipinapaabot ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan ang taos-pusong pakikiramay sa mga pamilya at kaanak ng mga namartir na kasama. Kaisa niyo kami sa pagtangis. Mapalad ang mga magulang, asawa, kapatid at anak ng mga kasamang ito. Itinulak ng kanilang walng kapantay na pagmamahal sa inyo ang kapasyahang maglingkod sa sambayanan bilang mga pultaym na mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan. Dapat niyo silang ipagmalaki dahil namatay silang may kabuluhan at ambag sa pagbabago ng lipunan. Tinitiyak ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan na hindi kailanman mawawala ang kanilang halaga sa inyong buhay.

Nananawagan din ang Jose Rapsing Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Masbate sa lahat ng mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma laluna rito sa ating prubinsya na ibayong magpakatatag at tanawin ang galos na ito bilang reyalidad ng ating makatarungang digma. Hindi madali at masalimuot ang tiyak na landas sa tagumpay. Ituon natin ang ating pagdadalamhati at galit sa pagpapatibay ng ating kapasyahang lumaban at sumulong. Marami pang labang susuungin at pagtatagumpayan.

Kinukundena rin ng Jose Rapsing Command – BHB Masbate ang pagdakip ng 2nd Infantry Battalion sa mga sibilyang malamang ay nadatnan at dinampot. Tahasang linalapastangan ng AFP-PNP-CAFGU ang mga makataong batas ng digma. Peke at mukha ng desperasyon ang mga pinalalabas na balita ng kaaway tungkol sa bilang ng NPA na kanilang nakalaban at napatay.

Tiyak na gugulong ang hustisya. Panata ng Jose Rapsing Command – BHB Masbate na lalong magpunyagi sa rebolusyonaryong armadong pakikibaka. Ang pagkabuwal ng mga rebolusyonaryong martir ay dugong pupunla sa katiyakan ng isang Pulang kinabukasan para sa masang Masbatenyo at buong sambayanang Pilipino.#

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/pagpupugay-sa-mga-rebolusyonaryong-martir-ng-guiom-at-eastern-capsay/

Kalinaw News: 88IB encounters CNTs in Bukidnon, seizes Hideout and war materials

From Kalinaw News (Feb 14. 2023): 88IB encounters CNTs in Bukidnon, seizes Hideout and war materials

MARAMAG, BUKIDNON – 88th Infantry Maringal Battalion troops encountered the members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) under Bernon Sinunta @ KALOY of Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) PEDDLER, Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in a 25- minute gun battle in the forested area of Sitio Supon, Barangay Nakabuklad, San Fernando Bukidnon in the early morning of February 05, 2023.

The said encounter resulted in the seizure of their hideout recovery of various war materiel to include but not limited to: Two (2) – link of Cartridge 5.56mm ammunitions; Two (2) rolls of electrical wires for Improvised Explosive Device (IED); Nine (9) gallons of rice; personal belongings and other subversive documents.

Relatedly, on February 02, 2023 this unit conducted Peace Dialogue with the populace of the barangay where the said encounter happened. The purpose of the said activity was to encourage everyone to continue their support to the peace and development program of the government and not to allow the CTG to infiltrate their already peaceful community.

COL CHRISTIAN JAMES P VINGNO, Commanding Officer of 88IB in his statement said He lauded the community on their full cooperation to government forces, the continuous support from the citizens through giving of essential information on the locations and activities of the CNTs is a big help in our pursuit against these CTGs, it is a clear manifestation that the said terrorist group is not anymore welcome in the said community.

“I am again calling the attention of the remaining members of NPA terrorists operating in our Area of Operation to come down and avail the program of the government. Start a new life and leave peacefully with your family,” Col. 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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/88ib-encounters-cnts-in-bukidnon-seizes-hideout-and-war-materials/

Kalinaw News: Philippine Army continues to intensify CTGs infiltration awareness to youth sector

From Kalinaw News (Feb 14. 2023): Philippine Army continues to intensify CTGs infiltration awareness to youth sector

BALER, Aurora-Troops of the Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion continues to intensified at the fullest level an information and awareness drive against recruitment of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) among the youth sector in Aurora province on Saturday, February 11, 2023.

Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, Jr., commander of 91st IB said that the information drive was participated by the students of Junior High School students of Cabog Integrated School in Sitio Cabog, Barangay Matawe, Dingalan, Aurora.

Recto said in an interview on Sunday the activity aims to increased awareness of the youth sector about the deceptive recruitment of the said terrorist group and to empower them about their significant role in nation-building, the challenges and issues among Filipino youth, evils of communism, stages of youth infiltration and the Executive Order No. 70-whole of nation approach and the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

“Our youth are the future leaders of the country and they plays significant roles in our society. Someday they will be in the security forces, legislators, leaders, managers, teachers among others. We should intensify our campaigns so that they will not be deceived by the lies and propaganda of the terrorist organizations,” Recto said.

He added that personnel from Alpha (Alakdan) Company, led by 1st Lieutenant Jevie J. Sagragao conducted the School Awareness Campaign regarding the Communist Terrorist Group (CTGs) lies and deception to youth sector.

Some 150 Junior High School students of Cabog Integrated School headed by their school principal Marvin I. Sinacay participated in the activity.

The Sinagtala troopers also distributed a 150 Army Recruitment and enhance comprehensive local integration program (E-CLIP) leaflets to the participants.

Cabog Integrated School Class President Amando Kiban said that the activity was a big help for them to widen their knowledge about the threat of the terrorist organization in our future.

“We are now much aware of their move, we will never be one of their victims and they will never engage us in arm-conflict against the government,” Kiban said.

On the other hand, Cabog Integrated School Principal Sinacay said that the activity resulted the students to be smart in order to analyze false information.

“As their principal, we will guard our students against the terrorist organization. The activity was useful, the student-participants are now safe, knowledgeable, guided and more aware of the deceptive recruitment of the CTG,” he 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.

https://www.kalinawnews.com/philippine-army-continues-to-intensify-ctgs-infiltration-awareness-to-youth-sector/

DFA, US, Australia protest ‘provocative’ China laser-pointing

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14. 2023): DFA, US, Australia protest ‘provocative’ China laser-pointing (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

UNPROVOKED. The Philippine Coast Guard records the military-grade laser light directed by a China Coast Guard vessel at the BRP Malapascua while at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Feb. 6, 2023. The Philippine vessel was supporting a rotation and resupply mission of the Philippine Navy in Ayungin Shoal at the time. (Courtesy of PCG Facebook)

MANILA – The Philippine government on Tuesday fired off a diplomatic protest against China over its latest aggressive activities near Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, including the “dangerous maneuvers” and use of military-grade laser on a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.

In a statement, Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Ma. Teresita Daza, said the “acts of aggression” are both “disturbing and disappointing” as it closely follows the bilateral summit between President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping in January.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it filed the note verbale before the Chinese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday.

The diplomatic note “condemned the shadowing, harassment, dangerous maneuvers, directing of military-grade laser, and illegal radio challenges” by Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 5205 against the PCG vessel, BRP Malapascua, on Feb. 6.

The DFA asserted that the CCG’s actions constituted a threat to Philippine sovereignty and security as a state, and are infringements of its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“The Philippines has the prerogative to conduct legitimate activities within its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. China does not have law enforcement rights or powers in and around Ayungin Shoal or any part of the Philippine EEZ,” said Daza.

“We call on China to comply with its obligations under international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS and the 2016 Award in the South China Sea Arbitration and direct its vessels to cease and desist from its aggressive activities against Philippine vessels,” she added.

In another statement, Ned Price, US State Department spokesperson, said the “provocative and unsafe” use of military-grade laser light interfered with the Philippines’ lawful operations in and around Ayungin Shoal.

“The United States stands with our Philippine allies in the face of the People’s Republic of China Coast Guard’s reported use of laser devices against the crew of a Philippine Coast Guard ship on February 6 in the South China Sea,” he said.

He added that China’s “dangerous operational behavior directly threatens regional peace and stability, infringes upon freedom of navigation in the South China Sea as guaranteed under international law, and undermines the rules-based international order.”

Wang Wenbin, China’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson, defended the incident on Sunday as their Coast Guard’s response to Manila’s “intrusion” into the waters off the Ayungin Shoal without Chinese permission.

READ: China Coast Guard points laser light at PCG ship off Ayungin

In a separate tweet, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu joined in airing concern over China’s “unsafe and intimidatory” action.

“We continue to call for peace, stability and respect for international law in the South China Sea, a vital international waterway,” she said.

The PCG report on Monday said BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) was supporting a rotation and resupply mission of the Philippine Navy in Ayungin Shoal at the time of the incident.

“As BRP Malapascua reached a 10nm (nautical mile) distance from Ayungin Shoal, the CCG vessel was monitored approximately 4nm of the ship’s dead ahead maneuvering from the portside heading starboard side. The Chinese ship illuminated the green laser light twice toward the BRP Malapascua, causing temporary blindness to her crew at the bridge. The Chinese vessel also made dangerous maneuvers by approaching about 150 yards from the vessel's starboard quarter,” the PCG said.

The Ayungin Shoal or Second Thomas Shoal is located about 105 nautical miles off Palawan -- well within the Philippines 200-nautical mile EEZ.

The DFA has already filed 203 notes verbales against China since 2022, eight of which were lodged this year.

Admiral Artemio Abu, PCG commandant, said they will “continue to exercise due diligence in protecting the country's territorial integrity against foreign aggression.”

“Despite the dangerous maneuver of the much larger CCG ships and their aggressive actions at sea, the PCG ships will always be in the West Philippine Sea to sustain our presence and assert our sovereign rights," Abu said in a statement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195144

Nicolas assumes post as new ISAFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14. 2023): Nicolas assumes post as new ISAFP chief (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Maj. Gen. Leonel Nicolas assumed as the new chief of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP).

AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Jorry Baclor, said the change-of-office ceremony was held in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday that was presided by AFP deputy chief-of-staff, Vice Admiral Rommel Anthony SD Reyes.

"(Army) Maj. Gen. Leonel M. Nicolas relinquished his post as the (AFP) deputy chief-of-staff for intelligence, (J-2) to assume the position of Chief, ISAFP. In his stint as J-2, he contributed significantly to numerous victories in the AFP's internal security operations. He also served as commander of 102nd Infantry Brigade, Task Force Zamboanga, and the 10th and 5th Infantry Battalions of the 1st Infantry Division," he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Army Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon, who is the AFP assistant deputy chief-of-staff for intelligence, assumed Nicolas' former post in an acting capacity.

Barandon also served as commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade in Bukidnon province.

"The AFP leadership places its full support in your capabilities to contribute to the growth of your respective units and offices and the AFP as a whole," Reyes said.

AFP chief honors fallen Marines

As this developed, AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Andres Centino, honored fallen officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) during wreath laying ceremonies held at the service's headquarters in Taguig City on Tuesday.

Centino was accompanied by PMC commandant, Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan.

"In his talk to troops, the CSAFP (Chief-of-Staff AFP) reiterated his guidance to the officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources of the PMC regarding operational efficiency, optimal use of resources, professionalism and meritocracy, and capability development," Baclor said.

(Photo courtesy of AFP)

He also directed PMC commanders to attend to the morale and welfare of troops by visiting the frontlines, especially remote detachments.

“We make sure that you are being seen and not just heard over the radio. You should be seen by your troops, and that is the best motivation you can give your soldiers,” Centino said.

He likewise thanked the PMC for its role in peace and security, especially in the fight against internal threats.

“I am encouraging all of you to continue supporting our campaign as most of our fellow soldiers are still out there fighting the remaining insurgents and terrorists,” Centino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195171

Army sustains anti-insurgency ops in 4 Negros towns

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14. 2023): Army sustains anti-insurgency ops in 4 Negros towns (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

COLLABORATION. Department of the Interior and Local Government-Negros Oriental provincial director Farah Gentuya (left) exchanges pleasantries with provincial engineer Maelene Jimenez and Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commanding officer of the 94th IB, during a recent meeting on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. The Army commander said they are continuing operations in at least four towns in Negros Oriental province that are still affected by communist insurgency. (Photo by Judy Flores Partlow)

DUMAGUETE CITY – The 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) of the Philippine Army is keeping a close watch on at least four towns in Negros Oriental that are still affected by communist insurgency with relentless operations underway, a military official said on Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, commanding officer of the 94IB, told the Philippine News Agency that the four municipalities are Tayasan, Ayungon, Bindoy and Manjuyod.

“Bindoy and Manjuyod have the strongest supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) that is why we have to sustain our operations there without let-up,” he said in mixed English and Cebuano.

Almonte said some of their activities include visiting former rebels and former supporters to ensure that they will not be influenced and recruited back into the underground movement.

The Army commander also noted that one of the three rebels who died in the Feb. 4 and 5 encounters with NPAs in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental province was from Barangay Tanglad, Tayasan town.

Barangay Tanglad is known to have some residents still active in the NPA, he noted.

He said this is an indication that there are still members of the NPA’s guerrilla front operating in central Negros that come from the Oriental side of the island.

Three barangays in Ayungon, one in Bindoy, and one in Manjuyod are listed as priority areas under the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) under the government’s whole-of-nation approach.

Meanwhile, Almonte said NPA forces in his area of jurisdiction are “dwindling”, meaning, “their strength is negligible and their firepower suffered successive setbacks” following encounters with government troops since last year.

Some barangays have also been cleared through their Community Support Program although he did not mention these villages.

Almonted called on the remaining NPA members to surrender and avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for former rebels to reintegrate them into mainstream society.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195167

3-month ops net 62 NPA rebels, 206 most wanted in Caraga

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14. 2023): 3-month ops net 62 NPA rebels, 206 most wanted in Caraga (By Alexander Lopez)

BIG GAINS. At least 62 New People’s Army rebels and 1,118 wanted persons were arrested during the conduct of intensified police operations from Nov. 2, 2022 to Feb. 3, 2023, marking the first 100 days of Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II as director of the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region. In the same period, 263 drug personalities were also arrested and nearly PHP4 million worth of illegal drugs were confiscated. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

BUTUAN CITY – Sixty-two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and 1,118 wanted persons—206 of whom are classified as most wanted—were arrested during intensified police operations from Nov. 2, 2022 to Feb. 13 this year.

Data provided by the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) on Tuesday indicated that aside from the arrest of 62 NPA insurgents, 148 other guerrillas also surrendered to the different police field units in the region.

“The period also marked the first 100 days in the office of PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II who assumed his post last Nov. 2,” said Maj. Jennifer Ometer,“ PRO-13 information office chief, in an interview.

In the same period, 319 firearms were also surrendered to the police while 34 others were confiscated in the intensified campaign against loose firearms.

The campaign against loose firearms, Ometer added, also resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals. Likewise, 263 drug personalities were arrested in 245 anti-drug operations during the period, resulting in the confiscation of 576.8 grams of shabu and 373 grams of dried marijuana.

The illegal drugs seized have a combined street value of nearly PHP3.9 million. In addition, police also collared at least 293 illicit gamblers, 55 illegal loggers, and 417 individuals involved in unlawful fishing.

In adherence to the peace and security framework MKK=K (Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayapaan, and Kaunlaran) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), PRO-13 also implemented the DADDI advocacy in the region.

DADDI stands for: Do observe cleanliness in camps and offices; Adherence to internal discipline; Drug war continues; Develop and strengthen police-community relations; and Intensified anti-criminality campaign.

To strengthen police-community relations, Ometer said at least 6,824 community outreach programs were initiated, benefiting some 7,091 residents in different areas.

“Peace and order indicator, which includes index and non-index crimes in Caraga, also dropped by 109 incidents or 8.11% from 1,343 incidents from Nov. 2, 2021 to Feb. 10, 2022, as compared to 1,234 incidents on Nov. 2, 2022 to Feb. 10, 2023,” the PRO-13 reported.

Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, PRO-13 director, said the accomplishments were the result of the “strong determination” of the police force in the Caraga region to curb criminality and lawlessness, in partnership with the communities and other stakeholders

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195140

Army scores vs. NPA in Bukidnon after community dialogue

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 14. 2023): Army scores vs. NPA in Bukidnon after community dialogue (By Nef Luczon)

REBELS' HIDEOUT. Government troops seize war materiel belonging to communist rebels in San Fernando, Bukidnon, after an encounter on Feb. 5, 2023. The 25-minute clash yielded ammunition, bomb-making materials, and documents belonging to the insurgents. (Photo courtesy of 88IB)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Philippine Army's 88th Infantry Battalion (88IB) scored anew against the communist rebels in Bukidnon province several days after government troops reached out to communities for dialogues.

In a statement on Tuesday, Col. Christian James Vingno, the 88IB commander, said ground troops encountered remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) led by a certain Bernon Sinunta of Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Peddler in a firefight earlier this month.

The Feb. 5 encounter in Barangay Nakabuklad, San Fernando town in Bukidnon led to the discovery of the NPA's hideout and the seizure of various war materiel.

Seized from the area were two cartridge links of 5.56mm ammunition; two rolls of electrical wires for improvised explosive devices; rice; personal belongings; and other NPA documents.

Three days before the encounter, Vingno said the 88IB conducted a "peace dialogue" with the residents to encourage them to continue their support for the peace and development program of the government and not to allow the NPA to infiltrate their peaceful community.

"I am again calling the attention of the remaining members of NPA operating in our area of operation to come down and avail the program of the government. Start a new life and leave peacefully with your family," he said.

The 88IB, a unit of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, credited its successful operations against the NPA to the civilians' cooperation.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1195191