CPP/Ang Bayan: Pensyon ng AFP, pabigat sa bayan

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 21, 2023): Pensyon ng AFP, pabigat sa bayan (AFP pension, a burden on the people)

 

May 21, 2023

Animo’y mga lintang sinisipsip ng dambuhalang pasistang makinarya ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang pondo ng bayan, hindi lamang para ipambili ng parami nang parami at palaki nang palaking mga armas at kagamitan, kundi pati para ipambayad sa pensyon ng mga berdugong elemento matapos ang kanilang “serbisyo.”

Sa nakaraang mga taon, umaabot sa ₱160 bilyon ang inilalaang badyet para sa pensyon ng mga retiradong sundalo at iba pang “unipormadong tauhan” ng estado. Para sa 2023, kinailangang maglaan ang Kongreso ng ₱273 bilyon para sa 137,649 pensyunadong sundalo at pulis.

Wala ni isang sentimo ang iniaambag ng sinuman sa burukrasyang militar, kombatant at di kombatant, sa kanilang pondong pampensyon. Buung-buo itong kinukuha sa pambansang badyet. Hiwalay pa ito sa alokasyon para sa aktibong mga elemento na kumakain din ng pinakamalaking bahagi ng badyet ng Department of National Defense. Kabaligtaran ang kaayusang ito sa pagkakaltas sa sahod at sweldo ng pampubliko at pribadong empleyado bilang “kontribusyon” sa Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) at Social Security System (SSS).

Walang kaltas na buwis ang pensyon ng mga sundalo. Simula nila itong natatanggap sa edad 56, o siyam na taon na mas maaga sa edad sa pagreretiro ng ibang kawani. Mas mataas rin ng isang ranggo ang tinatanggap na pensyon ng isang retiradong sundalo. Itinutulak nito ang pagkakarerahan sa promosyon at pag-uunahan sa pwesto ng mga may ranggo, laluna ng mga heneral.
Malaking tagas sa pambansang badyet

Lumobo nang ilang ulit ang pangangailangang pensyon matapos doblehin ng nagdaang rehimeng Duterte ang base pay ng militar at pulis bilang suhol sa kanilang katapatan. Dumagdag sa palamunin ang ilanlibong bagong sundalo na bumuo sa itinayong mga batalyong pangkombat, pang-artileri at iba pa na narekrut ni Duterte sa pangako ng mataas na sweldo, espesyal na mga pribilehiyo at pensyon.

Sa kasalukuyan, ang pinakamababang upisyal (2nd Lt.) ay tumatanggap ng netong sweldo na ₱43,829 kada buwan. Malayong mas mababa ang netong sweldo ng bagong nars na ₱30,742.27, matapos ibawas ang rekisitong kontribusyon sa GSIS, Philhealth at Pag-ibig. Malayong mas mababa ang net pay ng isang guro na nasa ₱23,465.50. Mas mataas pa ang sweldong ₱29,668 ng bagong rekrut na sundalo na nagsanay lamang ng anim na buwan. (Kalunus-lunos naman kung isipin na ang sahod ng isang manggagawa ay karaniwang ₱8,902 lamang.)

Aminado ang mga upisyal ng reaksyunaryong estado na ang papalaking pondong pensyon ng AFP ay hindi kayang tustusan nang pangmatagalan. Sa isang pag-aaral ng GSIS, mangangailangan ng ₱9.6 trilyong pondo o ₱800 bilyon kada taon sa susunod na 20 taon para pondohan ang papalaking pangangailangang pensyon ng militar at iba pang unipormadong personel. Ayon sa Department of Finance, kakailanganin ng estado na mangutang nang dagdag na ₱3.43 trilyon hanggang 2030 o dagdag na 25% sa kasalukuyang antas para rito.

Mungkahi ng ahensya, kaltasan nang 5% hanggang 9% ang sahod ng mga sundalo, pulis, coast guard, tauhan sa mga bilangguan at eskwelahang pulis para pondohan ang sarili nilang pensyon. (Kumakaltas ang GSIS nang halos 10% sa gross pay ng lahat ng ibang kawani kada buwan, habang halos 5% naman ang kinakaltas ng SSS sa sumasahod ng mas mababa pa sa minimum.)

Mungkahi rin ng ahensya na tanggalin ang awtomatikong pag-angat ng isang ranggo ng mga nagreretiro at itaas nang isang taon ang edad ng pagreretiro. Sasaklawin nito ang lahat ng aktibo at papasok na unipormadong elemento.

Sa ngayon, ang pensyon ng pinakamababang ranggong sundalo ay ₱40,000 kada buwan. Tatlong beses ito na mas malaki sa ₱13,600 buwanang pensyon ng isang kawani ng gubyerno at siyam na beses na mas malaki sa tinatanggap ng isang manggagawa na ₱4,528.

Bantang paghuhuramentado ang sumalubong sa panukalang reporma sa pondong pensyon ng militar. Nangunguna sa pagtutol dito ang mga retiradong heneral na hindi saklaw ng panukala. Imbes na mag-ambag, panukala pa nilang itaas ang kanilang mga pensyon mula 85% tungong 90% ng base pay.

Wala pa rito ang iginagawad na suhol sa nagreretirong mga heneral sa ilalim ng sistemang “pasalubong” at mga maanomalyang kontratang militar na nakokopo ng kanilang mga pribadong kumpanya at hinahawakang mga sindikatong kriminal.

[Ang Bayan ("The People") is the official publication of the Communist Party of the Philippines, guided by Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. It is published by the Central Committee. AB comes out fortnightly every 7th and 21st of each month. The original Pilipino edition is translated into English, Bisaya, Waray, Hiligaynon and Iloco.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/05/21/pensyon-ng-afp-pabigat-sa-bayan/

CPP/Ang Bayan: 5 armadong aksyon sa Panay at Kalinga

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 21, 2023): 5 armadong aksyon sa Panay at Kalinga (5 armed actions in Panay and Kalinga)

 

May 21, 2023

Limang magkakasunod na armadong aksyon ang inilunsad ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa mula Mayo 2 hanggang Mayo 8 sa Panay at Kalinga. Ang mga ito ay bahagi ng ubos kayang pagsisikap ng mga yunit ng BHB na pursigidong labanan at biguin ang todong gera ng kaaway laban sa masa at rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Una rito ang operasyong harasment na inilunsad ng isang yunit ng BHB-Southern Panay (Napoleon Tumagtang Command) sa Barangay Luyang, Sibalom, Antique kung saan tinambangan nila ang mga tropa ng AFP na nakahimpil sa CAA Detatsment ganap na alas-10 ng gabi noong Mayo 2.

Noong namang Mayo 3 nang salakayin ng BHB-Kalinga (Lejo Cawilan Command) ang nag-ooperasyong yunit ng 50th IBPA sa Sityo Agod, Barangay Poswoy, Balbalan, Kalinga. Dalawa ang napatay sa hanay ng kaaway. Isang Pulang mandirigma, si Baliwag “Ka Bombo” Buccol, ang namartir sa naturang operasyon.

Sinundan ito ng aksyong pamamarusa ng BHB noong Mayo 5 sa Atrila Builders Inc sa Barangay Cabungaan, Leon, Iloilo, halos dalawang kilometro lamang mula sa isang detatsment ng CAA sa Barangay Maliao. Naparalisa ang apat na kagamitan kabilang na ang backhoe, grader, trak at pison na tinatayang umabot sa ₱900,000 ang kabuuang halaga. Ang hakbangin ay pagparusa sa naturang kumpanya dahil sa patong-patong na kasalanan sa mga manggagawang hindi pinapasahod ng tama at hindi maayos na kundisyon sa paggawa.

Noon namang Mayo 6 ay pinasabugan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang tropa ng Philippine Army na reresponde sana sa kumpanya at maglulunsad ng operasyon laban sa BHB. Inambush ng BHB ang isa sa tatlong van na sinasakyan ng mga sundalo gamit ang command-detonated explosive (CDEx). Natumba at sumandal sa bangin ang sinasakyan ng mga sundalo. Dahil rito ay napaatras ang tropa ng militar at hindi nagpatuloy sa kanilang nakatakdang operasyon sa lugar.

Kinaumagahan naman ng Mayo 8, pinaputukan ng isang yunit ng BHB ang detatsment ng paramilitar sa Barangay Igcococ, Sibalom, Antique.

[Ang Bayan ("The People") is the official publication of the Communist Party of the Philippines, guided by Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. It is published by the Central Committee. AB comes out fortnightly every 7th and 21st of each month. The original Pilipino edition is translated into English, Bisaya, Waray, Hiligaynon and Iloco.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/05/21/5-armadong-aksyon-sa-panay-at-kalinga/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Iluwal ang demokratikong lakas at pagkakaisa ng masang manggagawa

Propaganda editorial from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 21, 2023): Iluwal ang demokratikong lakas at pagkakaisa ng masang manggagawa (Unleash the democratic strength and unity of the working masses)


Ang artikulong ito ay may salin sa Bisaya

May 21, 2023

Hindi maitanggi o maikubli ang katotohanan na kulang na kulang ang sahod ng milyun-milyong manggagawa, karaniwang kawani, at masang anakpawis, laluna sa harap ng mabilis na pagsirit ng presyo ng pagkain, petrolyo at iba pang saligang mga pangangailangan ng mamamayan. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit kabi-kabila ang panukala, sa senado, mababang kapulungan o sa mga ahensya ng reaksyunaryong burukrasya, para itaas ang sahod o iba pang hakbangin para ibsan ang labis na kahirapan. Mainam na bagay na marami ang naghahayag ng pagsuporta sa kapakanan ng mga manggagawa at masang anakpawis, subalit ang higit na mahalagang paalingawngawin at pakinggan, ay ang mismong boses ng nagkakaisang manggagawa, kung ano ang kanilang kailangan at ipinaglalaban.

Kabilang sa mga tampok na panukala ay ang ₱150 across-the-board wage increase na inihapag sa Senado at isinusulong ni Senate Pres. Juan Miguel Zubiri, ang nakahapag sa kongreso na panukalang itakda sa ₱750 na minimum na arawang sahod, kaakibat ang panukalang pagbabasura sa “wage regionalization” at ibalik ang sistema ng pambansang minimum na sahod. Kasabay nito ang iba’t ibang mga panukalang pagtataas sa minimum na arawang sahod nang ₱75 hanggang ₱220 na inihapag sa mga regional wage board.

Lahat ng panukalang ito’y salamin lamang ng iba’t ibang layo ng pagtaya sa tunay na halaga ng lakas-paggawa ng mga manggagawa, o ng halaga ng mga pangangailangan niya para sa kanyang sarili at kanyang pamilya (o ang tinutukoy ni Marx na pangangailan para panatilihin ang sarili at uri). Humigit-kumulang tinataya ito ng iba’t ibang panukat kabilang ang “poverty threshold” (hangganan ng karukhaan) na itinatakda ng reaksyunaryong estado sa napakababang antas na ₱8,500 kada buwan (o ₱283 kada araw). Malayo ito sa humigit-kumulang ₱33,000 kada buwan (o ₱1,100 kada araw) naman na tinatayang “family-living wage” ng grupong Ibon, na kinukwenta ang arawang gastos ng isang lima-kataong pamilya.

Alinman sa nakahapag na panukalang dagdagan ang sahod ng mga manggagawa ay maghahatid ng maliit o makabuluhang antas ng kaginhawaan sa araw-araw na pagdurusa ng mga manggagawa at masang anakpawis. Dapat lamang alalahanin na anumang makakamit na dagdag na sahod ay ibubunga hindi ng kabutihang-loob ng mga pulitiko, kundi ng lakas at pagkakaisa ng masang manggagawa. Kung iaasa lamang ito ng mga manggagawa at masang anakpawis sa senado o kongreso na kontrolado ng mga burukratang kapitalista, mas malamang na babaratin at babaratin lamang ang mga manggagawa, at gagamitin anumang ibibigay na umento para sila ay pagwatak-watakin at patahimikin.

Sa saligan, salungat sa interes ng malalaking kapitalista at ng maka-kapitalistang estado ang sigaw ng mga manggagawa at karaniwang kawani para sa karagdagang sahod. Ang bawat pisong dagdag na maiuuwi ng manggagawa ay pisong kaltas sa tubong ibinubulsa ng kapitalista. Ang murang lakas-paggawa sa Pilipinas ang isa sa pangunahing ginagamit ng rehimeng Marcos na pang-akit sa mga dayuhang kapitalista na mamuhunan sa Pilipinas at dambungin ang yaman ng bansa. Ang pakikibaka para sa karagdagang sahod ay nasa puso ng maka-uring tunggalian ng mga manggagawa at kapitalista. Ito ay paggigiit ng mas malaking bahagi sa halagang nililikha ng mga manggagawa sa araw-araw na pagpapaupa nila ng kanilang lakas-paggawa sa kapitalista.

Ikinakalat ng mga kapitalista at burges na ekonomista ang iba’t ibang huwad at baluktot na katwiran laban sa umento sa sahod para pahinain ang loob ng mga manggagawa na lumaban. Pinalalabas na ang pagtataas ng sahod ay magiging dahilan ng pagtaas ng presyo, kahit ang pagkahayok ng mga kapitalista na magbulsa ng mas malaking tubo ang tunay na dahilan ng pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin. Ginagamit rin ng malalaking kapitalista ang katwirang malulugi ang maliliit na negosyo kapag nagtaas ng sahod, para ikubli ang nagdudumilat na katotohanan na dambuhala ang kinakamkam na tubo ng mga bilyunaryong malalaking kapitalista kasabwat ang dayuhang kapital.

Nakasalalay sa antas ng lakas at kapasyahan ng uring manggagawa na ipaglaban ang kanilang interes at karapatan, kung may matatamo silang umento sa sahod at kung ito’y magiging makabuluhan o pakunswelo lamang. Pinatunayan na sa kasaysayan na mas malaki ang maipagtatagumpay nila kung maipamamalas nila ang pagkakaisa sa sama-samang pagbangon at militanteng pagdagsa sa lansangan ng puo-puo o daan-daan libong manggagawa, kaysa kung buhaghag ang kanilang hanay, kalat-kalat at iba’t iba ang boses.

Marapat na magkaroon ng nagkakaisang paninindigan at sigaw ang masang manggagawa para sa umento sa sahod, upang mabuo ang kanilang solidong hanay sa pakikipaggitgitan sa estado at mga kapitalista. Mainam na magbuklod ang iba’t ibang mga organisasyon sa hanay ng mga manggagawa sa halaga ng umento sa sahod na kaya at handa nilang ipaglaban. Subalit hindi ito sapat. Higit dito, kailangang pahigpitin ang pagkakaisa ng mismong mga manggagawa sa pamamagitan ng pagpapayabong sa demokrasya sa kanilang hanay, upang tipunin ang kanilang mga palagay, itaas ang kanilang kahandaan at kapasyahan na sama-samang lumaban, at batay dito, buklurin sila sa nagkakaisang panawagan. Kung hindi mabubuo ang malawak na pagkakaisa ng mga manggagawa, malamang kakapusin ng hangin ang kanilang paglaban.

Kailangang palakasin ang demokrasya sa hanay ng masang manggagawa sa pamamagitan ng puspusan pang pagpapatatag o pagbubuo ng kanilang mga unyon at iba’t ibang organisasyon sa mga pabrika, pook ng paggawa at mga komunidad. Dapat isagawa ang walang kapagurang kilusang propaganda, pang-edukasyon at pangkultura. Dapat ilang ulit na paramihin at palakihin ang inilulunsad na malawakang mga asembliya at konsultasyon para magsilbing daluyan ng hinaing at hangarin ng mga manggagawa at ng kanilang mga pamilya, maging paaralan upang itaas ang kanilang kaalaman at makauring kamulatan bilang mga manggagawa, at magsilbing paraan para buuin ang kolektibong pagpapasya na lumaban.

Ang ganitong demokrasya sa hanay ng mga manggagawa ang susi para iluwal ang militansya at sigasig ng uring manggagawa na ipaglaban ang umento sa sahod na nararapat sa kanila. Isa rin ito sa magiging pangunahing salik sa komprehensibong pagpapalakas ng rebolusyonaryong kilusang manggagawa, kaakibat ang paglaban ng sambayanan sa imperyalismo, pyudalismo at burukratang kapitalismo, at pagsulong ng pambansa-demokratikong kilusan.

[Ang Bayan ("The People") is the official publication of the Communist Party of the Philippines, guided by Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. It is published by the Central Committee. AB comes out fortnightly every 7th and 21st of each month. The original Pilipino edition is translated into English, Bisaya, Waray, Hiligaynon and Iloco.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2023/05/21/iluwal-ang-demokratikong-lakas-at-pagkakaisa-ng-masang-manggagawa/

Bacolod declared free from communist insurgency

From the Manila Bulletin (May 21, 2023): Bacolod declared free from communist insurgency (By TARA YAP)

ILOILO CITY – A joint regional body has declared Bacolod City free from communist insurgency.



OFFICIALS of law enforcement bodies declare Bacolod City free from communist insurgency. (303rd IB)

The Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (RJPSCC-6) affirmed this status in a resolution in its second quarter meeting on May 19.

The RJPSCC-6 consisted of the Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division (ID) as represented by the 303rd Infantry Brigade (303rd IB), the Police Regional Office (PRO)-6, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-6.

The move for Bacolod's insurgency-free status started in 2019 when multi-sectoral representatives declared members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed group the New People's Army (NPA) as persona non grata.

With the new status of Bacolod City, the RJPSCC-6 urged the continuous collaboration among security forces and the community to prevent the resurgence of the CPP-NPA in the city.

“Without the active participation of the people in the quest to have an insurgency-free community, this breakthrough would not be possible," said Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, 303rd IB commander.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/21/bacolod-declared-free-from-communist-insurgency

9 NPAs dead in Negros clashes – military

From the Manila Bulletin (May 21, 2023): 9 NPAs dead in Negros clashes – military (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

AT A GLANCE

• Nine suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a series of armed encounters with government troops in the Negros Island. T
• The neutralized communist rebels were members of the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR NCBS).
• Four rebels were killed in a 20-minute clash between members of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) and NPA’s KR NCBS in Sitio Cambawgon, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on May 21.
• Five more NPAs died in separate clashes in Brgy. Quentin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Saturday, May 20.

Nine suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a series of armed encounters with government troops in the Negros Island, the military said on Sunday, May 21.

(Photo: Visayas Command, Philippine Army)

Lt. Col. Israel Galorio, chief of Visayas Command’s (VISCOM) public information office, said the neutralized communist rebels were members of the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR NCBS).

Their complete identities have yet to be determined.

A report from the VISCOM said that four rebels were killed in a 20-minute clash between members of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) and NPA’s KR NCBS in Sitio Cambawgon, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. The encounter occurred around 5:10 a.m. on Sunday.

One NPA fighter was also arrested while another one surrendered during the operation, Galorio said.

Meanwhile, a separate VISCOM report showed that five NPAs died in three clashes in Brgy. Quentin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Saturday, May 20.

The first firefight erupted at 5:05 a.m. between members of the 62IB and NPA KR NCBS.

“With only a few minutes of interval, the terrorist group was entangled in three clashes with the government troops at different sitios in Brgy. Quintin Remo,” Galorio shared.

Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of VISCOM, said the neutralization of the rebels was a result of their relentless pursuit against the KR NCBS, particularly the Central Negros 1 (CN1), which they consider as a “weakened” guerilla front of the NPA.

“The series of debacles suffered by the CPP [Communist Party of the Philippines] – NPA is the result of our active convergence with the people and the local government units. This is a clear manifestation of the strong bond that we have in the fight against terrorism,” he said.

“This is never going to stop. We cannot allow these peace spoilers to further sow fear and terror, as our operations will continue without any let up. We will continue to push with our focused military operation and push harder until justice is served for the atrocities that the terrorist group has committed to our people, as we are determined on ending the local communist armed conflict in the region the soonest possible time,” he added.

Seized during the encounters were one M4 Firebird rifle, three M16 rifles, one cal. 30 firearm, three cal. 45 pistols, two Cal .38 pistols, one UZI machine pistol, one KG9 machine pistol, two homemade shotguns, assorted magazines and live ammunition, eight rifle grenades, an improvised explosive device, several IED components, food supply, medical paraphernalia, and other personal belongings.

“We never take joy in taking the lives of our own people. As such, we once again call upon the remnants of the CPP-NPA in the region to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. Heed the call of the government while you still can,” Arevalo said.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/20/9-np-as-dead-in-negros-clashes-military

Four NPA rebels killed, two others yield during Negros Oriental clash

From the Manila Bulletin (May 21, 2023): Four NPA rebels killed, two others yield during Negros Oriental clash (By GLAZYL MASCULINO)

BACOLOD CITY – Four rebels were killed as the Philippine Army 62nd Infantry Battalion (IB) clashed anew with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Cambawgon, Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on Sunday, May 21.



RESCUERS carry the remains of four NPA rebels who were killed in a clash with government forces in Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on Sunday, May 21. (Photo courtesy of 62nd IB)

The Army has yet to identify the slain rebels.

In a report from the 62nd IB, the military said they and at least eight unidentified armed men engaged in a firefight lasting for about 20 minutes.

Two NPA rebels surrendered but the Army has yet to provide details about the reported surrender.

The clash resulted in the recovery of some firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive device, war materials, and personal belongings.

The encounter came a day after a series of clashes erupted in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental where five NPA rebels were killed.

Troops of the 62nd IB are calling on the fleeing rebels to voluntarily surrender, especially the wounded so that they can be treated in hospital.

Government forces warned the rebels to return to the fold of the law, as the 62nd IB will never stop hunting them to ensure that long and lasting peace will be attained in central Negros.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/21/four-npa-rebels-killed-two-others-yield-during-negros-oriental-clash

4 NPA rebels killed in Negros Oriental clash

From the Philippine News Agency (May 21, 2023): 4 NPA rebels killed in Negros Oriental clash (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

Guilhungan City map (PNA file image)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Four fighters of the Central Negros 1 (CN1) Front of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with government troopers in Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental on Sunday.

Lt. Col. William Pesase, the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) commanding officer, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview that the four were among the heavily armed rebels who clashed with his men in Sitio Cambawgon, Barangay Trinidad before daybreak.

Pesase said the Trinidad encounter was a result of pursuit operations following another clash with the NPA in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Saturday where five other rebels were killed.

A cache of high-powered firearms, short arms, and other war materiel were likewise recovered by Army troops.

One NPA member surrendered to authorities.

Local police, Scene of Crime Operatives, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office personnel, and soldiers were on the way to retrieve the cadavers of the deceased rebels as of press time.

No other details were made available yet due to poor network connectivity.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1201917

LOOK: Lieutenant Colonel Romero welcomes 4-star US general to PH

From the Manila Bulletin (May 20, 2023): LOOK: Lieutenant Colonel Romero welcomes 4-star US general to PH (By ELLSON QUISMORIO)

AT A GLANCE

• 1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero accompanies Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officials in welcoming United States (US) National Guard Bureau chief, General Daniel Hokanson.

• Romero is an AFP reservist with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

From left to right: 1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero; US National Guard Bureau chief, General Daniel Hokanson; and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Alejandro NacNac. (Rep. Romero's office)

1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero was dressed to the nines as he welcomed a four-star general from the United States (US) on Friday, May 19.

Romero proudly wore his Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) uniform as he and AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Alejandro NacNac welcomed US National Guard Bureau chief, General Daniel Hokanson.

For those who don't know, Romero is an AFP reservist with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

(Rep. Romero's office)

Hokanson is on a tour of the Asia-Pacific.

The veteran congressman said the US military official’s visit is part of efforts to strengthen relations between the Philippines and the US.

Romero currently chairs the Committee on Poverty Alleviation in the House of Representatives. He is a former deputy speaker.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/20/look-lieutenant-colonel-romero-welcomes-4-star-us-general-to-ph-1

Marcos tells new PMA graduates: Live up to tenets of honor, excellence amid challenges

From the Manila Bulletin (May 21, 2023): Marcos tells new PMA graduates: Live up to tenets of honor, excellence amid challenges (By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS)

AT A GLANCE

• This is Marcos' first attendance at the PMA graduation as Commander-in-Chief.

• Marcos led the awarding rites to 310 graduating cadets, composed of 238 males and 72 females.

• Marcos hoped that the graduates would continue fueling their undying commitment to genuine love for the country and public service.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. told the new graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to live up to the tenets of honor and excellence, and cultivate the ability to recover amid existing challenges and threats to the country's security and safety.

President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (RTVM screenshot)

Marcos issued this challenge as he led, for the first time, the Commencement Exercises of the PMA 'MADASIGON' (Mandirigmang May Dangal Simbolo ng Galing at Pagbangon) Class of 2023 at Fort General Gregorio Del Pilar in Baguio City on Sunday, May 21.

In his speech, Marcos said he was hoping that the graduates would continue fueling their undying commitment to genuine love for the country and public service.

"In all your tasks, diligently work for unity, respect for democratic ideals, institutions, and mechanisms, and the rule of law," he said.

"Live up to the precepts that define your class identity, namely: honor, excellence, and ability to recover, and help lead our nation toward a progressive and prosperous future that we all aspire for," he added.

With this, the President expressed confidence that the new graduates have been trained to be prepared for the daunting challenges that await them, saying the "true battles will now begin."

"Existing realities in the rapidly evolving security environment impel us to be always prepared for any and all threats that our country might face," he said.

"Purveyors of criminality, insurgency, and terrorism are the great interlopers in our peaceful aspirations that undermine our peace and stability and our march to prosperity in our sovereign domain and its environs," he added.

"Your courage, strength, and skills have made you fit and qualified for admission into the Armed Forces and for deployment into the actual theaters of operations," he continued.

As commander-in-chief, Marcos assured the graduates that he would closely work with them, the future leaders of the country's Armed Forces, in the collective public service in building a stronger and more resilient republic.

"As you encounter challenges along the way, apply the hard-won lessons that you have learned while in the halls of the academy- clinging to the values of courage, integrity, and patriotism. That way, you will never lose your way," he said.

With his first attendance at the PMA graduation as Commander-in-Chief, President Marcos led the awarding rites to 310 graduating cadets, composed of 238 males and 72 females. These cadets will be deployed to serve under the three branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), 158 of whom are joining the Philippine Army (PA), 77 in the Philippine Navy (PN), and 75 in the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

Out of the 310 cadets, Cadet 1CL Warren Leonor, who hails from Lipa City in Batangas, emerged as valedictorian of the graduating class. He received numerous awards, including the Presidential Saber from President Marcos Jr.

This year's PMA top-notcher is set to join the Philippine Air Force.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/21/marcos-tells-new-pma-graduates-live-up-to-honor-excellence-amid-challenges

Muslim militants attack MILF

From the Manila Times (May 21, 2023): Muslim militants attack MILF (By Al Jacinto)

ZAMBOANGA CITY: Local Muslim militants allied with the Islamic State (IS) launched simultaneous attacks against the former rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the restive southern Filipino province of Maguindanao del Sur.

At least three reports from various international sources confirmed the raids after the IS posted the attacks on its website on Wednesday, May 17. The MILF, however, has not released any report of the attacks in Tuayan village in Shariff Aguak town.

IS reported that members of the so-called Islamic State East Asia Province (Iseap) attacked and engaged former MILF fighters and eventually drove them out from their camps, which were also torched by the militants.

The Middle East Media Research Institute (Memri), which monitors, tracks, translates, researches and analyzes cyber jihad originating from the Middle East, Iran, South Asia, and North and West Africa, reported the Iseap attack.

"Islamic State East Asia Province claims attack against Moro Islamic Liberation Front positions in [the] Philippines," Memri said in an exclusive report to its members.

The attack was first reported by SITE Intelligence Group, an American for-profit consultancy group that tracks online activity of white supremacist and jihadist organizations.

"In Rare Communique, ISEAP Reports Clash with MILF Fighters in Maguindanao," it said, but just like Memri, its reports are exclusive to its members.

A tweet on Friday, May 19, by War Noir, a part-time weapons and conflicts researcher, reported that the attack occurred on Saturday, May 13, and was only announced by the IS on May 17.

"On May 17, 2023, the Islamic State East Asia Province claimed responsibility for a May 13 attack against Moro Islamic Liberation Front, positions with machine guns in the village of Tuayan, in the area of Maguindanao, southern Philippines, causing MILF operatives to flee. Later, Iseap fighters burned the positions and seized an RPG launcher," War Noir tweeted with an accompanying photo of Iseap war booties.

It was not known whether Philippine authorities are unaware of the Iseap attacks or have not reported the clashes to the public. The leader of the MILF, Ahod Ebrahim, who now sits as chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, has also not released any statement.

MILF vs MILF

Just last month, two MILF groups also clashed in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town in Maguindanao del Sur over control of territories. The recent fighting in the villages of Madia and Dapiawan was between forces of the MILF's 105th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BILF) under Commander Moat Sindatuk and Commander Bobby Adam of the 118th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces.

It was unclear whether the fighting between the two MILF forces was connected to the Iseap attacks.

The town is just 54 kilometers from Cotabato City, the seat of power of the regional government where Ebrahim and other senior MILF officials he appointed hold office.

The sporadic battle, according to police and military reports, had killed at least a dozen MILF fighters from both sides and forced thousands of civilians in several villages to flee to safety. Worse, the bloodshed occurred on the last day of the holy month of Ramadan.

The BILF is the armed wing of the MILF which signed a peace deal with the Filipino government in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations. However, despite the accord, members of the MILF are still fully armed and even expanded their territories, and its members increased tenfold from a mere military estimate of 12,000.

The clashes also forced security forces and armored troops carriers to deploy and secure vital government installations and highways linking the province to North Cotabato province to ensure the safety of travelers and civilians. The latest fighting was not the first as both groups also clashed in recent years while trying to wrest control of territories.

Last February 7, MILF forces held hostage 39 elite army soldiers in the village of Dilimbayan in Maguing town in Lanao del Sur and released them a day later after security officials negotiated for their freedom.

The soldiers were all disarmed and brought them to an MILF camp where heavily armed men guarded them throughout the night. The infantrymen, part of a group that stormed a communist rebel base near the town, were returning to their rendezvous when MILF forces surrounded and captured them.

Members of the government's ceasefire committee negotiated with their MILF counterpart and successfully recovered the soldiers after their release. It was unknown whether MILF gunmen returned the weapons they seized from the Special Forces soldiers after the disgraceful incident.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/05/21/regions/muslim-militants-attack-milf/1892422

Bato’s son, Rock, among 159 new Scout Rangers

From the Manila Bulletin (May 20, 2023): Bato’s son, Rock, among 159 new Scout Rangers (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

AT A GLANCE

• Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s son has just become an elite Scout Ranger.
• Police Lieutenant Rock dela Rosa was among the 159 soldiers and policemen who earned the “Tabak” badge after graduating from the Scout Ranger Course (SRC) “Nasiglat” C:ass 219-2022 at Camp Pablo Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan on Friday, May 19.
• The class, composed of 142 Philippine Army (PA) troopers and 17 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, hurdled a 28-week training that tested the limits of their physical capabilities, stamina, and spirit.

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s son has just become an elite Scout Ranger.

(Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa [right] with his son, Police Lt. Rock Dela Rosa / Courtesy of Senator Dela Rosa's Facebook page)

Police Lieutenant Rock dela Rosa was among the 159 soldiers and policemen who earned the “Tabak” badge after graduating from the Scout Ranger Course (SRC) “Nasiglat” C:ass 219-2022 at Camp Pablo Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan on Friday, May 19.

The class, composed of 142 Philippine Army (PA) troopers and 17 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, hurdled a 28-week training that tested the limits of their physical capabilities, stamina, and spirit.

The course was divided into four major modules: Individual Training Module, Small Unit Training Module, Combat Maneuver, and Test Mission. The course sought to develop the troops into becoming effective and lethal direct-action combatants who specialize in small unit tactics and combat tracking.

As part of their test mission, they were deployed on the field to go after Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) rebels operating in the area.

The elder Dela Rosa, who was a Scout Ranger himself, served as the guest of honor and speaker during the closing ceremony of the SRC as he witnessed his son received his own badge.

“When one lives and dies for the country, such life and such death shall never be in vain. To live and die for one’s country is an act of the highest honor and it is one that we are called upon to face, every single waking moment of our lives,” he said in his speech.

Rock followed the footsteps of his father, who is a former PNP Chief, and became a police officer himself. He entered the PNP Academy (PNPA) in 2017 and graduated four years later.

Former president Rodrigo Duterte also graced the ceremony as he shared to the newly-minted Scout Rangers the importance of their job, stressing the unit’s critical part in the liberation of Marawi City from the hands of terrorists in 2017.

“Now will also be an opportune time to thank the Scout Rangers for their valuable contributions in retaking the City of Marawi when I was president,” the former Commander-in-Chief said. "I am deeply grateful for your service to our flag and country. Your dedication, commitment and resolve to perform your duty are truly commendable.”

Meanwhile, the senator and the graduates offered their condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones of Private First Class Modesto Lutob, a member of SRC Class 219-2022, who died in an encounter with CPP-NPA rebels in Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar on March 20.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/20/bato-s-son-rock-among-159-new-scout-rangers

Eight soldiers from PH Army 5th Infantry Division awarded with Gold Cross medals for bravery

From the Manila Bulletin (May 20, 2023): Eight soldiers from PH Army 5th Infantry Division awarded with Gold Cross medals for bravery (By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO)

GAMU, Isabela – Eight soldiers who bravely fought the New People’s Army in areas covered by the Philippine Army 5th Infantry Division were awarded with the Gold Cross medal.

The awarding coincided with the celebration of the 42nd founding anniversary of the establishment of the 5th Infantry Division “Star Division” here recently.

Awarded with medals were 1st Lt. Fredie Catayas, Corporal Roldan Galingan, 1st Lt. Hairam Morato, and Staff Sgt. Albert Abordo of the 17th Infantry Battalion (IB); 1st Lt. Kenneth Joseph Yabo and Staff Sgt. Arnel Sional of the 52nd Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC); and 1st Lt. Raniel Magalso and Private First Class Loren Gannaban of the 95th IB.

The Gold Cross medal is the fourth highest military combat award given to Army personnel with the highest being the Medal of Valor.

Meanwhile, the 95th IB was awarded as the best infantry battalion while the Alpha Company of the 17th IB was awarded the best infantry company.

Tributes were also given to "Startroopers" who gave their lives, including 2nd Lt. Nasser Dimalanes and Corporal Jaime Fontanilla Jr. of the 98th IB, Private Kobee Wackisan of the 52nd DRC, and Sgt. Tumali Tumbali of the 86th IB.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/20/eight-soldiers-from-ph-army-5th-infantry-division-awarded-with-gold-cross-medals-for-bravery

10 alleged NPAs killed, 73 surrendered in Southern Luzon since January – Solcom

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 21, 2023): 10 alleged NPAs killed, 73 surrendered in Southern Luzon since January – Solcom (By: Delfin T. Mallari Jr. - Correspondent)

Rebels. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

LUCENA CITY — At least 10 alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed by state security forces in Southern Luzon since January this year, the military’s Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) reported Saturday, May 20.

Solcom public information officer Col. Dennis Cana said in an online interview that three of the communist guerrillas were killed in separate encounters in Southern Tagalog while seven were slain in clashes in the Bicol region.

Cana also reported that 46 former NPA combatants surrendered in Southern Tagalog and another 27 Red-fighters voluntarily turned themselves in to military and police forces in Bicol from January to the present.

The government forces recovered 20 assorted firearms from the communist insurgents in Southern Tagalog and another 12 in Bicol during the same period.

READ: Alleged NPA ‘militia’ surrenders in Quezon province

“More NPA’s people’s militia and allies in different parts of Southern Luzon have also been turning their backs on the communist movement and making their pledge of allegiance to the government,” Cana said.

The “people’s militia” is part of the insurgent’s mass base, which secures the NPA rebels while in the community. Sometimes, they are armed to reinforce the communist guerrillas during encounters.

The continued surrender of communist insurgents and the avowal of support to the government of their allies and supporters indicates the futility of armed struggle, Cana said.

READ: 10 Quezon towns now NPA free

He said the government authorities are prepared to provide the necessary assistance for the former rebels in their reintegration protocols under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip).

A rebel returnee can avail himself of firearm remuneration and housing, medical care, loans, and legal assistance, among other forms of help from the government.

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

READ: NPA’s 54th anniv: CPP touts ‘steady advance’; AFP sneers at ‘irrelevant’ movement

Established on March 29, 1969, the NPA has currently around 2,112 forces across the country with 1,800 weapons in its arsenal, according to latest military estimates.

At its height, it had 25,000 members in 1987, according to Philippine military estimates.

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Gov’t soldiers, NPA rebels clash in Sorsogon

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1772233/10-alleged-npas-killed-73-surrendered-in-southern-luzon-since-january-solcom

NPA claims responsibility for farmer’s gun slay in NegOr

From the Philippine News Agency (May 21, 2023): NPA claims responsibility for farmer’s gun slay in NegOr (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

NPA ATROCITY. Police process the crime scene where a farmer was shot dead by New People's Army rebels in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on Saturday afternoon (May 20, 2023). The victim reportedly refused to continue to support the group. (Photo courtesy of Guihulngan City Police)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A farmer in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental was shot and killed by suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) after he reportedly withdrew his support from the insurgency movement, a police official said on Sunday.

The 47-year-old victim, Eduardo Antiquando Balansag, a resident of Sitio Mansalukon in Barangay Calupaan, was killed Saturday afternoon at his residence by four armed men who claimed to be NPA members.

Lt. Col. Romeo Cubo, Guihulngan City police chief, told the Philippine News Agency that the suspects shouted “Mabuhay ang NPA (Long live the NPA)” before they fled.

Cubo said the strongest possible motive for the killing was that Balansag had refused to continue to support the group.

“Information that we gathered from the ground showed that Balansag used to provide food to the armed rebels but had stopped recently,” Cubo said in Cebuano.

Balansag was working on his newly built house when the two suspects arrived and talked to him for about 40 minutes, police investigation showed.

Two others arrived later but remained a short distance away.

The duo who came earlier then drew their guns and fired at Balansag, who managed to run away but the two others blocked his path and shot him several times more, causing his instant death.

The police recovered three pieces of empty shells of caliber .45; one empty shell of caliber 5.56mm; one live round of caliber .45; and a deformed slug of caliber .45.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1201905