MILF blasts state troops for killing of 7 members in Maguindanao del Sur

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 20, 2023): MILF blasts state troops for killing of 7 members in Maguindanao del Sur (By: Bong S. Sarmiento, Edwin O. Fernandez)

COMMON GRAVE Relatives bury the seven Moro Islamic Liberation Front members in a common grave hours after they were killed on Sunday during the joint police and military operation in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur. —PHOTO FROM THE HUSAIN FAMILY

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is set to lodge a complaint before the Coordinating Committees on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) against the combined police and Army team that killed seven of its members in Datu Paglas town, Maguindanao del Sur at dawn on Sunday.

Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILF peace implementing panel, on Monday said the seven men killed in a law enforcement operation at 2 a.m. on Sunday were MILF members, refuting the military’s claim that they were members of the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

The MILF, which has forged a peace agreement with the government that led to the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2019, believed the killing of its members has to be resolved by the CCCH, a body composed of Armed Forces and MILF leaders that was created to ensure that the provisions of the peace pact are followed and to investigate any incident that can threaten the accord.

Iqbal said the government troops violated the ceasefire agreement and the terms of reference of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (Ajag), a mechanism between the government and the MILF that responds to criminality and terrorism in areas with MILF presence.

“(There was) no coordination (for the operation),” said Iqbal, also the Minister of Education in the BARMM.

Igbal identified the slain MILF members as Nasser Yussef Husain, also known as Tutin Usop; his sibling Norjihad Husain, also known as Datdat Usop of the town’s Barangay Madidis; and Mamex Karem, Dela Singkala, Morsid Madidis, and brothers Jerry and Punpugay Pagugunang, all residents of the town’s Barangay Damawato.

Legitimate operation?

Police Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, the BARMM police director, said operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) were to implement a search warrant against the Husain siblings linked to the bombing of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) tower in Carmen, Cotabato in 2016 and the Datu Paglas public market attack by BIFF in 2021.

Police Capt. Nurjhasier Sali, Datu Paglas police chief, said it was a legitimate operation that went “ugly when the gunmen started firing at law enforcers.”

But relatives of the seven men claimed it was a “rubout.” They also denied the police’ claim that those slain were members of local armed groups involved in criminal activities.

Mirinda Husain, mother of Nasser and Norjihad, said she was awakened by a series of gunfire before dawn on Sunday and later found her sons and five others dead in their compound.

“My sons were legitimate members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. They are not BIFF members,” Husain told a radio station in Tacurong City.

She said her sons and the other victims were all under 11th Brigade of the MILF national guard division. Nasser was a brigade commander while the other fatalities were under his command.

Both Nasser and Norjihad were under the command of George Kasim, commander of the national guard division of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), the military arm of MILF.

MILF spokesperson Von Alhaq also confirmed that Kasim was a top MILF commander.
Call for impartial probe

The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the governing body of BARMM, on Monday passed a resolution condemning the incident and calling for an immediate and impartial probe.

“We cannot turn a blind eye against injustices committed against our own people, against those who dedicated their lives in pursuit of peace and freedom,” said BTA Parliament Member Baileng Mantawil in a privileged speech during the session on Monday.

He added: “The raid conducted in the midst of the peace process raises serious questions about the manner in which it was executed. Reports of excessive force, handcuffing and killings in sacred spaces cast a dark shadow on the credibility of the operation. We cannot allow such acts to go unpunished, we must demand a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation into these grave violations.”

All the seven fatalities were buried in the Husain residential compound in Barangay Madidis on Sunday.

Husain said the police barged into several houses in the Husain residential compound in Barangay Madidis and started firing at 2 a.m. on Sunday. She recalled asking for the search warrant but the law enforcers did not show any. Before the shooting, the spouses of her sons were forcibly brought to one area of the compound.

Emilyn, wife of Norjihad, said she hugged her husband to ensure he was safe but she was pulled by the police and brought to another area in the compound. The next time she saw him, Norjihad was already dead.

The relatives claimed that police operatives took the sibling’s mobile phones, P400,000 cash and jewelry.

Who fired first

However, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command on Monday released a statement identifying the slain seven as members of the BIFF–Karialan Faction.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of Joint Task Force Central, said the operating troops were serving search warrants on the suspects for alleged violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

“When they were approaching the subjects’ residence, an undetermined number of BIFF members fired upon the government forces, which resulted in the wounding of one police personnel,” he said.

The troops fired back, which also resulted in the deaths of the seven BIFF members, including the two subjects of the search warrants, Rillera said.

Rillera said that government forces seized six firearms, including one Uzi, two M16 rifles, and three caliber .45 pistols, and assorted ammunition. INQ

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1790402/milf-blasts-state-troops-for-killing-of-7-members-in-maguindanao-del-sur

CPP/NDF-CPDF: The people remember Ama Macliing as defender of ancestral land//Militarization last March leads to mining in Kalinga

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 20, 2023): The people remember Ama Macliing as defender of ancestral land//Militarization last March leads to mining in Kalinga

 


Cordillera People's Democratic Front | National Democratic Front of the Philippines
June 20, 2023

All those bombs and all those troops couldn’t have been for nothing. The true intentions behind the indiscriminate bombing last March and the heavy troop deployment in the province of Kalinga is actually just another expression of the government’s disregard for the national minorities, this time for their inalienable right to self-determination. The attacks against the civilian population are in direct relation to the mainstream news reports of Makilala Mining Co., Inc. celebrating its plans to start constructing next year its copper-gold mines project of Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog. The Philippine subsidiary of CELSIUS Resources intends to launch operations by 2026.

Truly, counterinsurgency or anti-terrorism is never just about fighting opposition forces. For the national minority, it is almost always about plunder of their ancestral territories in the name of whatever evil the fascist state has conjured to meet its own greedy objectives. The latest spate of militarization in Kalinga plus the recent news about impending mining activities in Kalinga prove this point.

The national minorities are thus doubly victimized. Firstly, by the extensive violence they experience in the hands of the mercenary army. Then, by the permanent economic and socio-political effects of mining in their communities. Government projects within ancestral lands are already steeped in the blood of the national minorities who sacrificed life and limb before such projects could even break ground in the indigenous lands. And indigenous blood will continue to flow as long as destructive projects threaten the minorities with ethnocide in the name of supposed `development’ or `progress.’

The real-life legend of the 80s that is Ama Macliing Dulag caused for governments to take better care and thought whenever they have a mind to shove down more `development projects’ down the throats of the minorities. Before he was killed by state agents, Ama Macliing refused every bribe and dismissed every threat against him just so he could continue leading the people’s struggle against the senior Marcos’ Chico Dam project. For generations of i-Kalinga and the rest of the Cordillera, his revolutionary martyrdom is such a symbol of resistance that even regimes had to think of creative ways to sell neoliberal projects to the people of Cordillera. When they use the terms `renewable energy source’ to describe dams and dikes or `pro-people mining’ in the vain effort to blur the truth about large-scale capitalist mining, it is because they know about the valiant resistance of that period.

Such resistance is bound to be replicated. Ama Macliing Dulag’s fame was never meant to be an impotent lesson to be remembered only when convenient. The lesson of the people’s uprising lives on in continuing and elevating the tradition of Cordillera resistance. This is evident from the forefathers who fought against Spanish incursions until the present times when modern day indigenous heroes and advocates brave the blatant fascism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines under the rule of the tyrant’s son. The armed revolution, proudly national democratic to its very core, is an integral part of the Cordillera people’s lives as long as there is a threat against their very existence.

Oppose militarization in the ancestral territories! Hold accountable fascist dogs of the Marcos II regime!

Oppose large-scale mining and other destructive projects in ancestral domains!

Defend indigenous people’s rights! Join the New People’s Army!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/militarization-last-march-leads-to-mining-in-kalinga/

CPP/NDF-SOCPC: Murder of two children exposes AFP as child killers

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 19, 2023): Murder of two children exposes AFP as child killers

 

Coni Ledesma

Head

Special Office for the Protection of Children

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

June 19, 2023

The Special Office for the Protection of Children of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (SOPC-NDFP) vehemently condemns the brutal massacre of the Fausto family – father, mother and their two children Raben (aged 11) and Ben (aged 15) by the AFP’s 94th Infantry Battalion last 14 June 2023. Based on verified reports, AFP troops stormed the family’s hut deep in the night and massacred them in their sleep.

This heinous act is a blatant violation of the rights of the child and the special protections under international humanitarian law. Child rights violations have sharply increased under the Marcos II regime with reports of kidnappings, threats, forced evacuation, violence and now the murder of two children in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. In Negros Island alone, the NDFP has documented at least 22 cases of state violence involving children between the period of 2020 to 2022.

Pinning the blame on the NPA is an old and tired tactic the AFP uses to escape accountability for its crimes against the people. Confirmed reports stated that on 22 March, both Emelda and Rolly Fausto were interrogated and harassed by military agents. Even prior to the incident, the AFP has red-tagged the Fausto family, slaughtered their livestock, and ransacked their property in attempts to force admission of ties to the NPA.

The killing of the Fausto children and their parents exposes the AFP once more as lawless and mindless child killers. As commander-in-chief of the criminal, corrupt and brutal AFP, Marcos II is directly responsible for its war crimes against the Filipino people.

A regime that kidnaps, threatens, and murders its own children is fascist and inhumane, and deserves the condemnation of the international community.

The US-Marcos regime must not be allowed to operate with impunity and must be held accountable for the lives of children they have extinguished.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/murder-of-two-children-exposes-afp-as-child-killers/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island-MAKIBAKA: Reactionary state unconcerned over rights and welfare of Negrosanon children

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 18, 2023): Reactionary state unconcerned over rights and welfare of Negrosanon children

 

This article is available in Hiligaynon

Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan-Negros Island

NDF-Negros Island

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

June 19, 2023

As an organization of women revolutionaries, the Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA)-Negros utterly condemns the cold-blooded massacre of the Fausto family by the 94th Infantry Battalion (IB) last June 14 at Sitio Kangkiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, especially the merciless killing of two children who were 11 and 15 years of age.

Focused military operations and the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) in the countryside has brought trepidation for people’s lives and security, particularly for children. While state forces carelessly shower bullets and bombs on peasant communities, ransack houses, illegally arrest innocents, coerce civilians to surrender, and abduct and murder ordinary folk and hors de combat, fear, anxiety, sorrow and anger are instilled in the minds and hearts of the people and their children. Trauma develops among children upon witnessing the lives of their father, mother, siblings and relatives taken away. In every destroyed home and each family victimized by state fascism, one to a thousand children are deprived of freedom to live as well.

The murder of brothers Ben and Raben Fausto is not the first incident where the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), currently headed by MGen. Marion Sison, violated children’s rights.

The case of Aldren Faburada, 17 years old, who was severely beaten and killed by the 62nd IB and was then tagged as an NPA member when he was only fetching his school module from their hut near the encounter site at Sitio Kansampo, Brgy. Bagtik, La Libertad, Negros Oriental last March 15, 2021 cannot be forgotten. The massacre of Everly Kee Jacolbe, 16 years old, her pregnant mother and her relative by the 62nd IB at Sitio Banderahan, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on July 26, 2022 was also strongly condemned by the people.

It can still be recalled that the 94th IB physically assaulted locals of Sitio Cunalom, Brgy. Carabalan, Himamaylan City, Pedro Montecino and his son Christopher, 17 years old, on September 11, 2021 and tagged Christopher in front of the media as an NPA “child warrior” who surrendered named “Ka RR.”

In 2022, National Democratic Front (NDF)-Negros monitored 17 cases of human rights violations by military troops on the island, mainly the 62nd IB and 94th IB, directly involving children. These were cases of extrajudicial killing, harassment and threat, indiscriminate firing and bombing, attempted abduction, forced surrender, and illegal detention.

Military troops occupying schools also cause intense fear as children and their teachers function as human shield for chicken-hearted soldiers. It disturbs the children’s education and places the community in danger.

Cases of 3rd ID troops targeting and attacking babies and children they suspect as sons and daughters of Red fighters happened one after another. This division of the Philippine Army is notorious for employing similar dirty tactics in warfare wherein children are used as bait to force the surrender and capture of their parents or relatives.

One well-known case was the 79th IB’s kidnapping of Baby Marx Cairo Salino, a two month old infant of NPA fighters, who was taken from his caretaker on January 13, 2021. The baby, currently with the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) of Escalante City, Negros Occidental, is considered a hostage of the 79th IB. Despite the rights of Baby Marx’s family to claim and care for him, the fascist and merciless personages of the CSWD and military stubbornly insist that the freedom of Baby Marx depends on their decision.

Other brazen cases of violations were the 94th IB chasing after and attempting to abduct four children aged one to two years old in different barangays of Himamaylan City last 2022. Meanwhile, just this year, on May 14 at Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental, the 11th IB captured a mother with her one-month old baby and her husband; they were suspected as NPA members.

MAKIBAKA-Negros is concerned as well with reports that the 11th IB placed a P50,000 bounty on a two year old child of a Red fighter couple under the NPA’s Rachelle Mae Palang Command in Southeast Negros to use as hostage to coerce the parents to surrender.

Through the National Task Force (NTF)-Elcac, the Philippine National Police (PNP), local government units, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and DSWD have become accomplices of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its scheme to attain the twisted fantasy of the US-Marcos II regime to frustrate the armed struggle of the people.

The AFP boasted of the implementation of deceptive peace and development programs and projects in communities such as the RCSP and Barangay Development Program which allegedly aim to build and protect a community affected by armed conflict, but actually these were used to draw a veil over rampant military operations and the spread of state terrorism in the area.

With the massacre of the Fausto family including their two children, clearly the reactionary state is unconcerned over protecting and providing the welfare of Negrosanon children. It is not conscientious in solving the roots of armed conflict because it implements militarist measures to suppress the toiling masses.

The MAKIBAKA-Negros welcomes the announcement of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) that it will hold an investigation. All who uphold human rights are also urged to launch an independent investigation directly in the community of the Faustos and other areas where there are increasing cases of human rights violations.

However, the bigger challenge is concrete action after the investigation to hold the culprits accountable. It has been forever since the reactionary government was able to give justice to the lengthy list of human rights violations especially against children on Negros Island perpetrated by the fascist AFP, PNP, NTF-Elcac and other government agencies.

There should be measures on how to defend and give sufficient protection to children, may they be of Red fighters or civilians. With their young disposition, the two governments in the Philippines, the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Democratic Government based in the countryside, have the responsibility to provide a bright future to children who are the hope of the nation. Children must be steered away from the danger of war and be given safe domicile and environment.

The MAKIBAKA-Negros also calls the entire democratic and patriotic force in society to defend and carry forward children’s rights as stated on the NDFP’s Declaration and Program of Action for the Rights, Protection and Welfare of Children.

The MAKIBAKA-Negros together with revolutionary mass organizations of workers, peasants, youth and other sectors of society is fearless in resisting state terrorism and its resolve to launch revolutionary armed struggle to give children and the coming generation a future of freedom and justice becomes ever more unyielding.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/reactionary-state-unconcerned-over-rights-and-welfare-of-negrosanon-children/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: 3 Patay sa 62nd IB sa Moises Padilla

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 18, 2023): 3 Patay sa 62nd IB sa Moises Padilla (3 Dead in 62nd IB in Moises Padilla)

 


JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

June 18, 2023

Lubos nga ginapanginbulahan sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) sa isa ka yunit sang NPA nga nagpatigayon sang madinalag-on nga kontra-opensiba batok sa nagahara-hara kag berdugo nga tropa sang 62ndIB nga tuyo magreyd sa nakakampo nga yunit sang NPA sa sityo Cupad, Brgy Macagahay, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental sadtong Hunyo 13, alas 9:00 sang aga.

Patay ang 3 ka tropa sang 62ndIB sang asud-asod nga ginpalukpan sang 2 ka granada ang nagaginahod kag nagapunsok nga tropa militar sa naubos nga bahin sang tereyn sang encounter site sa Sityo Cupad, Brgy Macagahay, Moises Padilla. Organisado nga naka-atras ang NPA kag nagligad ang pila ka minutos liwat naman nga nasumalang sang nasambit nga yunit sang NPA ang isa sa mga blocking force sang pasistang tropa. Liwat nga naglinukpanay kag gilayon nga nakagwa ang yunit sang NPA sa mga kolum sang militar sa nasambit nga lugar nga natabu-an sang engkwentro. Madamo pa sang kaswalti sa hanay sang militar sang natabo ang cross-fire sa tunga sang ila hanay bangud makita kag mabatian pa sang naka-atras nga yunit sang NPA nga padayon ang bayluhanay sang dalagko nga lupok nga nagatupa sa ubos nga bahin diin dira man nahamtang ang isa pa ka kolum sang militar nga nagalagas sa naka-atras nga NPA unit. Hungod naman nga ginlimod sang militar sa publiko ang ila mga kaswalti.

Wala sang kamatuoran nga may duha nga kaswalti sa hanay sang NPA. Matawhay nga naka-atras ang NPA samtang mabatian pa ang ang linupok tubtob alas 10:30 sang aga.

Mabaskog man nga ginakondenar sang LPC-NPA ang pagpatay sang militar sa 2 ka mangunguma kag sibilyan nga sanday Benjie Ebarle sang Sityo Bungaw, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City kag Roweno Anubong sang Ssityo Agogolo, Brgy Macagahay, Moises Padilla bangud sang patarasak nga pagpaniro sang pasistang tropa militar sang natabo ang engkwentro.

Ginapakamalaot man sang LPC-NPA ang ilegal nga pag-aresto sang desperadong 62nd IB sa isa ka construction worker nga pamatan-on nga si Aldren Valbueno, 20 anyos sang sityo Manta-uyan, Brgy Macagahay, Moises Padilla. Si Valbueno ang bag-o lang nagpauli sa ila puluy-an gikan sa iya trabaho sang ilegal siya nga gin-aresto sang militar sadtong Hunyo 16, 2023. Si Aldren Valbueno ang gintamnan sang 45 cal. pistol kag military pack. Pilit nga ginpa-ako sang berdugong militar nga katapo siya sang NPA.

Ang padayon nga pagpanglapas sang militar sa tawhanon nga kinamatarung sang pumuluyo sa lugar kag pagpalapnag sang mga kabutigan ang nagabuyagyag sang pagka-desperado kag tatak sang pagkapasista sini. Gusto lang nga hinabunan sang 62nd IB ang ila mga kalutusan kag kapalpkan sa pagpakig-away batok sa NPA sa Central Negros.

Samtang nagasingki ang paglala sang krisis sa ekonomiya kag pulitika sa sistemang malakolonyal kag malapyudal sa pungsod diin ginadingot ang pagpatuman sang matuod nga reporma sa duta kag pungsodnon nga industrialisasyon, subong man padayon nga nagaluntad ang pagbayolar sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung nga nagapatay sang demokrasya kag pungsodnon nga kahilwayan, padayon man nga maga-usbong ang paghimakas sang malapad nga pumuluyo. Padayon nga magadako ang pwersa kag kusog sang NPA gikan sa nagahimakas kag pigos nga pumuluyo nga maga-uyat sang armas agud isulong ang Demokratiko nga Rebolusyon sang Banwa sa pagpukan sang imperyalismo, burukrata-kapitalismo kag pyudalismo upod na ang pagdugmok sa mapintas nga makinaryas sang reaksyonaryong estado.

Silotan kag pabayaron ang berdugong 62nd IB sa ila mga kalapasan sa Pumuluyo sa mga kaumahan sa Central Negros! Isulong ang inaway banwa tubtob sa kadalag-an!###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/3-patay-sa-62nd-ib-sa-moises-padilla/

CPP/NPA-Masbate: Tinatapos ng rehimeng US-Marcos-Duterte ang unang taon sa termino sa malawakang pagpatay

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 17, 2023): Tinatapos ng rehimeng US-Marcos-Duterte ang unang taon sa termino sa malawakang pagpatay (The US-Marcos-Duterte regime is ending its first year in term with mass murder)

 


Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

June 17, 2023

Napaslang sa walang habas na pamamaril ng mga berdugo at teroristang pwersa ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang magsasakang si Carling Belan habang sugatan naman si Panoy Pepito nitong Hunyo 16, 2023 alas-3 ng hapon sa So. Manaybanay, Brgy. Calabad sa bayan ng Dimasalang. Dinakip at isinama rin ng militar ang tatlong kasamahan ng mga biktima na sina Wengweng Hagnaya, Damang Tumangan at Edlang Tumangan. Si Belan ang ika-14 na biktima ng pampulitikang pamamaslang sa Masbate sa ilalim ng rehimeng US – Marcos – Duterte.

Sa Masbate, ang pagpatay sa mga magbubukid na Masbatenyo sa pamamagitan ng gutom at bala ang naging tatak ng unang taon ng rehimeng US-Marcos-Duterte sa kapangyarihan. Kinatangian ang kanyang unang taon sa prubinsya ng malawakang pang-aagaw ng lupa, pagsadsad ng kabuhayan at pagpapatuloy ng paghaharing militar.

Masahol, ang mga biktima ay mga kabataan. Ang napatay na si Belan ay 17 anyos, isang menor-de-edad.

Inaasahang magtatapos ang isang taon ni Marcos Jr. sa pamamagitan ng malawakang pagpatay na hudyat sa mas matinding panganib sa buhay at kabuhayan ng masang Masbatenyo. Sa katunayan, nagkukumahog ang AFP at PNP na madurog ang armadong pakikibaka sa prubinsya alinsunod sa ibinigay na palugit ng rehimeng US – Marcos-Duterte na isang taon sa kanilang nag-uulol na mga tauhan. Desperado itong nagpakana ng engkwentro sa Dimasalang upang palabasing “humihina o NPA – cleared” na ang naturang bayan.

Higit na kinamumuhian ng masang Masbatenyo ang mga berdugo at pasistang pwersa ng militar at ang terorista nitong amo na si Bongbong Marcos dahil sa paglulunsad nito ng maruming gera laban sa mga sibilyan. Gamit ang pananakot at dahas, pinipilit nitong isuko ng masang Masbatenyo ang kanilang pakikibaka para sa kabuhayan, lupa at buhay.

Naganap ang tangkang masaker habang ilinulunsad ng militar, pulis at Department of Local and Interior Government (DILG) ang kampanya para sa huwad na kaunlaran sa ilalim ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) sa nasabing bayan.

Hindi sagot sa malawakang kawalan ng lupang mabubungkal, pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin, pagbagsak ng kita, kawalan ng trabaho at hanapbuhay ang malawakang pang-aagaw ng lupa para sa proyektong ekoturismo, mina, pagrarantso at ang patuloy na militarisasyon sa prubinsya.
Ilinalantad nito ang kahungkagan at kawalan ng senseridad ng rehimeng US – Marcos Jr. sa pamamagitan ng serbisyo Caravan, Baranggayan at pag-aalok ng mga proyektong malayo naman sa bituka ng masang sadlak sa krisis at kahirapan.

Nananawagan ang pamprubinsyang kumand ng BHB sa masang Masbatenyo na paghandaan ang mas pinabagsik na kampanya ng pasismo at terorismo ng estado sa darating na mga buwan at taon. Kailangang patatagin ang mga samahan at organisasyong masa para sa muling pananalasa ng matinding militarisasyon. Maglunsad ng mga kampanyang anti-pyudal at anti-pasista at muling pasiglahin ang hayag na kilusang masa.

Walang anumang makakamit sa patuloy na pananahimik at pagkatakot! Kailangang lahatang-panig na kumilos!

Itambol ang mga paglabag ng AFP at PNP. At mahigpit na tutulan ang malawakang pang-aagaw ng lupa sa prubinsya. Patampukin ang mga kilos protesta at kalampagin ang mga lokal na upisyal sa Masbate sa kawalan ng aksyon upang mapanagot ang militar at pulis sa kanilang krimen.

Ilantad at pagbayarin ang pasistang AFP, PNP at mga mapaminsalang proyekto na dumadambong at nagkakait sa kabuhayan at lupa sa masang Masbatenyo. At ituon ang pinakamalakas na pagkilos sa walang humpay na pagdawit ni Bongbong Marcos Jr. sa Pilipinas sa banta ng pagsiklab ng gera sa pagitan ng imperyalistang US at China.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/tinatapos-ng-rehimeng-us-marcos-duterte-ang-unang-taon-sa-termino-sa-malawakang-pagpatay/

EASTMINCOM: Female CPP-NPA Terrorist Dead in a Clash with 8th Infantry Battalion in Bukidnon

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): Female CPP-NPA Terrorist Dead in a Clash with 8th Infantry Battalion in Bukidnon

8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion, Philippine Army
·
IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon – A female CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) in Bukidnon was killed in a series of encounters with 8th Infantry (DEPENDABLE) Battalion, 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army on Saturday, June 17 2023, at about 05:26 in the morning at Sitio Malinao, Brgy. Kalasungay in Malaybalay City of Bukidnon.

Said CNT personality is yet to be identified as of this report. Captured during the fire-fight that lasted for about 10 minutes are the following: one (1) AK47 Rifle, one (1) M14 Rifle, one (1) Improvised Explosive Device, 1 roll of detonating cord, two (2) blasting caps, and other various war paraphernalia.

The clash that transpired between the government forces and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) is an aftermath of reports from concerned citizens in the vicinity of Brgy. Kalasungay stating that fully armed men whom they suspected as NPA Terrorists are foraging and extorting money from the neighborhood of their small community in Sitio Malinao.

It can be recalled that the 403rd Infantry Brigade launched intensified Focus Military Operations in Saldab complex since the start of the year that resulted in the series of encounters and discovery of arms cache which led to the capture of two (2) M16 Rifles, two (2) AK47 Rifles, Improvised Explosive Devices, subversive documents and other war materials.

The 8th Infantry Battalion remains in gratitude for the proactive actions undertaken by the residents and the Local Government Unit to pre-empt further havoc that the CPP-NPA Terrorists may bring in their peace-loving community.

Meanwhile, in pursuing the gains of the NTF-ELCAC, the 403rd Infantry (PEACEMAKER) Brigade, 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division along with other stakeholders will continue to strive for the pursuit of a genuine peace and security within the areas of the Province of Bukidnon.

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#StrongUnitedReliable
#StrongerArmyStrongerCountry
#YourDependablePartner

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EASTMINCOM: 3 NPA killed in Agusan, 15 high-powered fire arms collected

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): 3 NPA killed in Agusan, 15 high-powered fire arms collected

BASAHIN | 3 NPA NAPATAY SA AGUSAN, 15 HIGH POWERED FIREARMS NASAMSAM
TATLONG hinihinalang miyembro ng New People’s Army ang napatay sa ikinasang combat military operation sa Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, ayon sa Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Buong story: https://saksingayon.com/.../3-npa-napatay-sa-agusan-15.../

#AFPyoucanTRUST



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EASTMINCOM: 5 NPAs Neutralized and 16 High-powered Firearms Seized in Agusan del Norte Clash

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 20, 2023): 5 NPAs Neutralized and 16 High-powered Firearms Seized in Agusan del Norte Clash

901st Infantry Fight 'Em Brigade, PA
·
5 NPAs Neutralized and 16 High-powered Firearms Seized in Agusan del Norte Clash

PLACER, Surigao del Norte – Government security forces of the Philippine Army’s 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion (29IB) and 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion (30IB) encountered a large group of heavily armed members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterland areas of Mt Apo-apo of Sitio Dugyaman, Brgy Anticala, Butuan City on Friday morning June 16, 2023.

For fear of getting caught in crossfire, disgruntled farmers secretly reported to the military regarding the presence of heavily armed NPAs roaming in the vicinity of Sitio Dugyaman of Barangay Anticala in Butuan City. In response, LTC CRESENCIO C GARGAR, Commanding Officer of 29IB deliberately planned and immediately deployed troops giving emphasis to ensure the safety of the civilians and make sure the target are terrorist NPAs.

 
While the troops were closing in towards the reported enemy hide-out, the troops were met by heavy armed resistance that prompted them to return fire. Intensed firefight ensued until the troops were able to outmaneuver the enemy causing them to run away and scamper in different directions leaving behind dead bodies and war materials. The troops continued to scour the area and secured the encounter site.
The armed encounter resulted to the death of five (5) NPA regulars. One of which was identified as Adonis Maglasang @ Do/Dali, the Vice-CO of the Regional Operational Command (ROC) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC). Sixteen (16) high-powered firearms were also recovered by the government forces in the encounter site: six (6) AK47 Rifle, four (4) M4 Assault Rifle, four (4) M16A1 Rifle and two (2) 40mm Grenade Launchers. Other items recovered include: two (2) tablets (Samsung and Huawei); eight ( keypad cellular phones and voluminous terrorists’ documents of high-intelligence value.

BGEN GEORGE L BANZON PA, Commander of the 901st Infantry (Fight ‘EM) Brigade lauded the troops of 29IB and 30IB for their gallantry and persistence in locating the NPA terrorists and for making sure that no civilians were trapped during the firefight. “The military forces owe the result of this encounter to the cooperation of concerned civilians. This is a clear manifestation that the people are already tired and fully aware of the false propaganda of the NPAs that they are the soldiers of the masses,” the General said.

General Banzon likewise expressed his condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families of the dead NPA members citing that “If these NPA members only heed to our persistent call to abandon the armed struggle and submit themselves to the government authorities, this hapless fate might not happened to them. To the concerned citizens who provided timely and accurate information, let us continue to work together to end the problem of armed conflict in Caraga Region,” the General added.

·








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EASTMINCOM: 1 Female NPA killed, 2 High-Powered firearms seized in MisOr clash

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 20, 2023): 1 Female NPA killed, 2 High-Powered firearms seized in MisOr clash

58th Infantry "Dimalulupig" Battalion, Philippine Army
·
CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental - A female member of the CPP-NPA was killed and two (2) high-powered firearms were seized after an encounter between the troops of 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion and Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) at Brgy Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental on Friday, 16 June 2023.

The sporadic firefight between the government forces and more or less 15 CNTs believed to be members of SRSDG MTJ Eagles, SRC1, NCMRC lasted for about 20-minutes that resulted in the unfortunate demise of one female member of the CPP-NPA and captured of one (1) M16 rifle, bandolier and long magazine loaded with 20 rounds m16 ball; one (1) M14 rifle, bandolier and m14 magazine with 15 rounds m14 balls; two (2) backpacks, ponchos, jungle hammock, cooking pot; one (1) defective signus radio and medical paraphernalias.

All available military assets have been placed on a high status alert in support to the on going pursuit operation against the fleeing terrorists.

The troops of 58IB immediately coordinated with Claveria MPS and Claveria DRRMO for the retrieval and identification of the cadaver.

The engagement was a result of the timely and accurate information provided by the local residents of the presence of armed group in the area.

Ltc Christian Uy, Commanding Officer 58IB said, “I am appealing to the remaining members of the CTGs to abandon the armed struggle before another demise will happen. We will assist you in your reintegration to the community and become productive members of the society. However, if you continue espousing terrorism, we are determined to hunt you down until we achieve peace in our area of responsibility”

#58thInfantryDimalulupigBattalionTroopers
#4IDAtongArmy
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#StrongerArmyStrongerCountry
#ServingthePeopleSecuringtheLand





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WESTMINCOM: Troops discover arms cache in Lanao del Sur

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): Troops discover arms cache in Lanao del Sur

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City – June 19, 2023

While conducting combat patrol, soldiers from Joint Task Force ZamPeLan discovered an arms cache in Barangay Bulawan, Marogong, Lanao del Sur, on Saturday, June 16, 2023.

Troops recovered one Cal .50 Sniper rifle with two bandoliers and four magazines in the arms cache left by the group of Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group subleader Ustadz Nasser Daud.

 
Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, commended the troops of Joint Task Force ZamPelan, led by Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, for this remarkable accomplishment.

 
“Our troops remain steadfast in clearing the communities from the remnants of the different threat groups and eliminating the tools of violence and terrorism,” Lt. Gen. Galido said.

 
“With all the positive results of our operations, we will continue to intensify our combat and non-combat operations to sustain the momentum. We call on all peace-loving citizens to support our relentless campaign to defeat the local terrorists and promote internal security in our joint area of operations,” Lt. Gen. Galido added.

###
#SupportOurTroops
#SundaloSalamatsaSerbisyo
#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach
1st Infantry "Tabak" Division, Philippine Army
6th Infantry "Kampilan" Division, Philippine Army
Alakdan Division
JTF Zamboanga
Naval Forces Western Mindanao
54th Engineer "Sarangay" Brigade, PA
Red Shield
Jtf Basilan
603rd Infantry - Persuader Brigade
602nd "Liberator" Brigade

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Kalinaw News: 3 NPA rebels neutralized and 15 high-powered firearms seized following a skirmish in Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City

Posted to Kalinaw News Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): 3 NPA rebels neutralized and 15 high-powered firearms seized following a skirmish in Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City

Military troops neutralize 3 NPA rebels and seize 15 high-powered firearms following a skirmish in Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City

Read: https://bit.ly/3NfMMgd

#StrongUnitedReliable
#PhilArmy
#ARMY126

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AFP: AFP supports stronger defense cooperation with Japan

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): AFP supports stronger defense cooperation with Japan

The Armed Forces of the Philippines affirmed its support for stronger defense cooperation with Japan during the courtesy visit of Tsuchimoto Hideki, Commissioner of the Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) of Japan on June 19 at the AFP General Headquarters here.

General Andres Centino, the Chief of Staff AFP (CSAFP), welcomed and expressed his grateful appreciation to the Japanese official for their assistance in the AFP modernization and capability upgrade program.

Read more at:
https://www.afp.mil.ph/.../afp-supports-stronger-defense...

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AFP: ARRIVAL HONORS | General Andres Centino, the Chief of Staff of the AFP, leads the military in rendering arrival honors to Secretary of National Defense Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. during his first official visit to the AFP General Headquarters

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): ARRIVAL HONORS | General Andres Centino, the Chief of Staff of the AFP, leads the military in rendering arrival honors to Secretary of National Defense Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. during his first official visit to the AFP General Headquarters 

ARRIVAL HONORS | General Andres Centino, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, leads the military in rendering arrival honors to Secretary of National Defense Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro Jr in his first official visit to the AFP General Headquarters on June 19. He was welcomed by senior officers of the Joint, Personal, and Special Staff as well as enlisted and civilian personnel of Camp Aguinaldo.

 
Secretary Teodoro proceeded to the 12th Oversight Committee Meeting of the National Task Force on the Disbandment of Private Armed Groups with Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr and USec Isidro Purisima of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity to discuss updates on government programs to address armed violence and the problem of private armed groups. (Photos by Sgt Ambay/PAO, AFP)

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AFP: LOOK | 40 newly-promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the AFP took oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Malacañang Palace on Monday, June 19

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Jun 19, 2023): LOOK | 40 newly-promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the AFP took oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Malacañang Palace on Monday, June 19

Presidential Communications Office

Pinangasiwaan ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ang panunumpa sa tungkulin ng 40 na heneral at flag officers na tumaas ang ranggo sa hanay ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas (AFP) ngayong araw, ika-19 ng Hunyo.

Binigyang-diin ng Pangulo ang suporta ng kaniyang administrasyon sa AFP lalo na sa kanilang pagsisiguro sa kapakanan ng organisasyon at mga tauhan nito habang ipinapatupad ang tungkuling protektahan ang bansa at sambayanang Pilipino.

Kabilang sa mga nanumpa ay 10 na Major Generals at Real Admirals, 14 Brigadier Generals at Commodores ng Philippine Army, isang (1) Lieutenant General, tatlong (3) Major Generals at Real Admirals, at apat (4) na Brigadier Generals at Commodores ng Philippine Navy.

Kasama rin ang isang (1) Lieutenant General, dalawang (2) Major Generals/Real Admiral, tatlong (3) Brigadier Generals at Commodores ng Philippine Air Force, at dalawang (2) Brigadier Generals at Commodore ng Technical and Administrative Service ng AFP.

#AFPyoucanTRUST

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Chinese warship shadows BFAR patrol vessel in WPS, PCG confirms

From the Palawan News (Jun 19, 2023): Chinese warship shadows BFAR patrol vessel in WPS, PCG confirms

(PNA file photo by Ben Briones)

A Chinese navy warship shadowed the fisheries bureau’ civilian patrol vessel BRP Francisco Dagohoy as it returned to mainland Palawan after giving livelihood assistance to the residents of Pag-asa Island, Kalayaan town, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

In a news conference on Saturday, June 17, PCG spokesperson Armand Balilo said that the presence of the Chinese vessel went unreported by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ (BFAR) civilian patrol vessel, which also had journalists on board.

The incident occurred as the group was nearing mainland Palawan.

“As they were approaching Palawan, they reported that a Chinese navy ship suddenly appeared behind them, not the Coast Guard, somewhere close, I can’t say exactly,” he said.

“They were followed, and they were challenged three times,” he added.

After the radio challenges, China’s warship eventually left the area, Balilo confirmed.

The vessel embarked on its journey on June 12 to deliver livelihood interventions worth P5 million in Kalayaan town. It arrived in Puerto Princesa on June 16.

Earlier, Western Command (WESCOM) Chief Alberto Carlos claimed that the increased military presence in the disputed waters, through regular patrolling and maritime domain awareness expeditions, has already brought peace and stability to the area.

He even encouraged local fishermen to venture into the West Philippine Sea, ensuring their safety.

https://palawan-news.com/chinese-warship-shadows-bfar-patrol-vessel-in-wps-pcg-confirms/

Philippine Navy ship to provide drinking water to Mayon evacuees through desalination

From Rappler (Jun 20, 2023): Philippine Navy ship to provide drinking water to Mayon evacuees through desalination (By RHAYDZ B. BARCIA)

This is to address the scarcity of potable water in various evacuation centers in Albay

ALBAY, Philippines – Equipped with a desalination machine, the Philippine Navy’s BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) will provide clean drinking water to internally displaced families temporarily housed in 26 evacuation centers amid Mayon Volcano’s unrest.

This is to address the scarcity of potable water in various evacuation centers in Albay.

BRP Andres Bonifacio’s commanding officer Commander Paul Hechanova said the seacraft can produce 32,000 liters of clean drinking water in 24 hours from saltwater through desalination. The desalination machine uses a reverse osmosis process, wherein salt and impurities are removed from seawater to produce drinking water.

“The desalinated water is safe to drink as it passed through the water testing of the Department of Health (DOH). It passed through the DOH standard,” Hechanova said.


Commodore Joe Anthony Orbe, chief of the Naval Forces Southern Luzon, said the Philippine Navy seacraft was patrolling the West Philippine Sea before it was sent to Bicol. It arrived on Monday morning, June 19, and will stay in Albay for days to provide assistance to the displaced families.

Aside from providing drinking water, the ship can also be used as a mobile command center of the provincial government to ensure continuous operations amid the unrest.

Orbe said BRP Andres Bonifacio has rescue capabilities that can be used in case of ashfall and other complex disaster scenarios.

In its June 19 bulletin, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said at least 20,127 persons have been displaced by Mayon Volcano’s unrest. There have been complaints of lack of water (including drinking water) and toilets in evacuation centers.

According to Orbe, another Philippine Navy ship will come to Albay in the coming days to provide assistance.

The province has been under a state of calamity since June 9, a day after Mayon Volcano’s status was raised to Alert Level 3 after it showed an “increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.”

State volcanologists likened the volcano’s current state of unrest to its 2014 eruption, and said this level of activity “may persist for a few months.”

https://www.rappler.com/nation/luzon/philippine-navy-ship-provide-drinking-water-mayon-evacuees-desalination/

Armed with gun, explosive, fleeing rebel captured

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 19, 2023): Armed with gun, explosive, fleeing rebel captured (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

A suspected member of the New People’ Army, fleeing from pursuing government troops following an encounter where two rebels died on June 13, was captured two days after by troopers of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, in Sitio Lower Macagahay, Brgy. Macagahay, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

His identity has been withheld by authorities, pending follow up operations.

Prior to his captivity, PLt. Col. Alvimar Flores, 2nd NOCPFMC commander, in a statement disclosed that two successive encounters ensued shortly before midnight of June 15 in Sitio Lower Macagahay of the barangay.

Flores said the first encounter led to the recovery of a rifle grenade, a back pack containing personal belongings and assorted empty shells of various calibers of firearms.

The second encounter resulted in the capture of one of the six fleeing rebels, and the recovery of a .45 caliber pistol with a magazine containing ammunition, a hand grenade, and a jungle back pack with personal belongings.

His captivity was a result of a joint operation of the 2nd NOCPFMC, 62nd Infantry Battalion and 604th Mobile Force Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6.

On June 13, two suspected rebels, identified as Benjie Ebarle, alias Omar, and Roweno Fermiza Anobong, alias, Wen, also died in an encounter with 62IB also in Brgy. Macagahay, Moises Padilla.

The Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion reiterated its appeal for rebels wounded in armed skirmishes and those fleeing, to surrender, as they will not stop hunting them down.

https://visayandailystar.com/armed-with-gun-explosive-fleeing-rebel-captured/

NPA tagged in Himamaylan massacre

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 20, 2023): NPA tagged in Himamaylan massacre (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The suspects in the massacre of four family members in rebel infested Sitio Kangkiling, Brgy. Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, have been identified, revealed Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday.

Lacson however said he is still waiting for an official report from the Philippine National Police, as to the motive behind the gruesome murders of farmer Rolly Fausto, his wife, Imelda, and their two minor sons, aged 15 and 11 years old.

According to the investigation of the Himamaylan City police, witnesses revealed that the armed suspects shouted “Mabuhay ang NPA, Mabuhay ang Hukbo. Tanan nga traidor patyon (Long live the NPA, Long Live the Army. All the traitors must be killed,” after the shooting incident.

About 15 armed men were involved in the killing of the Fausto family members, the police added.

Police Executive Master Sgt. Ariel Sevilla, chief investigator of the Himamaylan City police, disclosed that they are encouraging witnesses to help them give justice to the victims.

The development bolstered claims of the military that prior to the incident, Fausto was negotiating for the surrender of some their relatives.

Fifty-three empty M16 assault rifle shells were recovered at the scene of incident, and all victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, according to the police.

Lt Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94th Infantry Battalion commander, believes that the armed rebels are members of the remnants of the Regional Strike Force of the Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor.

The four victims were buried on Sunday at the public cemetery in Brgy. Aguisan, Himalayan City, as facilitated by the city government, amid cries for justice.

Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson disclosed that witnesses are coming out to help in the investigation into the brutal incident.

Aside from the police, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Negros Occidental also dispatched its investigators in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, to conduct a probe into the reported massacre of four members of a family on June 14.

MAKIBAKA Negros, in statement, welcomed the announcement of CHR to conduct an independent probe of the incident at the scene of incident.

Tongson disclosed that information provided by witnesses is helping uncover the motive of the incident, as well as in identifying the suspects.

Lacson said “the massacre of innocent civilians is an outrage to our morals, our values, and our commitment to peace and justice,” as he called on law enforcement authorities to lead an in-depth investigation into what he described as a “horrible act.”

Those guilty must be brought to justice as soon as possible, he added.*

https://visayandailystar.com/npa-tagged-in-himamaylan-massacre/

TF Davao heightens patrols, checkpoints after car bomb

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 18, 2023): TF Davao heightens patrols, checkpoints after car bomb (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 


THE TASK Force Davao strengthened foot and mobile patrols in strategic areas of the city for heightened public safety.

Col. Darren Comia, TF Davao commander, said some of its personnel assigned to the fringes would be recalled to augment the patrol teams in downtown areas with a high concentration of citizens.

He said this is part of the re-alignment strategy following a car explosion in Ecoland.

Comia added TF-Davao could not afford to relax its security measures even though the motive of the car explosion was work-related and non-terror related.

Meanwhile, Major Catherine dela Rey, Davao City Police Office spokesperson, said they already have three persons of interest in the attack on a lawyer whose car sustained damage by an unknown explosive in Ecoland on Thursday morning, June 15.

Recently, the police have created a Special Investigation Task Group or SITG Magulta to investigate the explosion and identify the perpetrators.

DCPO chief Col. Alberto Lupaz is the commander of the task group.

Lawyer Alberto Magulta’s wife owned the car. But police believed that he was the one targeted, considering the death threats he received. The police also assured the public that it was not a terror act since the motive was entirely personal.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/06/18/tf-davao-heightens-patrols-checkpoints-after-car-bomb/

7 communist rebels killed in series of clashes with troops

From the Mindanao Times (Jun 18, 2023): 7 communist rebels killed in series of clashes with troops (By RHODA GRACE SARON) 

 


SEVEN members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed, and 20 high-powered firearms were seized following successive military offensives in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, and Claveria, Misamis Oriental and in Malabalay City, Bukidnon on June 16-17.

Major Francisco Garello Jr., the spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division, said three unidentified rebels, two females and one male, were killed in Butuan on June 16.

Accordingly, combined troops of the 29th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Cresencio Gargar and the 30th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Jerold Jale, both under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, encountered the rebels.

The soldiers recovered five AK47 rifles, four AR18 rifles, three M4 rifles, two M203 grenade launchers, an M16 rifle, and communist terrorist documents on Friday in Mt. Apo-Apo, Sitio Dugyaman, Barangay Anticala, Butuan City.

Brig. General George Banzon, 901st Infantry Brigade commander, said the troops seized the lair of more or less 30 combined elements of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Guerilla Front 21 (SYP21C, GF21) and Platoon Dao, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland, both under the Sub-Regional Committee Westland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

On June 17, Banzon added that troops of 30IB conducting a clearing and thorough search at the encounter site discovered an abandoned lifeless body of a male and female. They also recovered one AK47 rifle. He said five rebels were killed and 16 HPFAs captured during the said encounter.

Meanwhile, troops of the 58th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Christian Uy, under the operational control of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, led by BGen. Adonis Ariel Orio, encountered more or less 15 communist rebels at 4:35 p.m. in Malatuka, Sitio Kalhaan, Barangay Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental.

The encounter resulted in the death of one female rebel and the capture of an M16 rifle and an M14 rifle.

Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus clashed with more or less ten rebels in Sitio Malinao, Barangay Kalasungay, Malaybalay, Bukidnon at 5:25 p.m. on June 17.

“After the encounter on Friday afternoon against the same group, our troops tirelessly tracked and continued their pursuit operations,” BGen. Michele Anayron Jr., 403rd Infantry Brigade commander, said.

“Aided by the information from local residents, we chanced upon them, and a 15-minute firefight ensued, which resulted in the death of a female CNT and capture of an AK47 rifle, one M14 rifle, anti-personnel mine, backpack with personal belongings, and other war paraphernalia,” he added.

In a statement, 10th Infantry Division MGen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II underscored that the no-let-up military offensives highly reflect their commitment to pushing for the total defeat of the communist terrorist group.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2023/06/18/7-communist-rebels-killed-in-series-of-clashes-with-troops/

7 rebels killed in Butuan, MisOr and Bukidnon; 5 of them women

Posted to MindaNews (Jun 19, 2023): 7 rebels killed in Butuan, MisOr and Bukidnon; 5 of them women (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / 18 June) — The military has revised its narrative on the death toll in clashes with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Butuan City, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon last week, claiming that seven alleged rebels, five of them women, have been killed since Friday.

“The body count in the encounter in Butuan City last Friday was raised from three to five The soldiers also found one more AK 47 rifle,” Major Francisco Garello Jr., spokesperson of the Army 4th Infantry Division, said.

Courtesy of 4ID

According to Garello, soldiers seized 20 high-powered firearms — seven AK 47 rifles, four M4 rifles, four AR 18 rifles, an M16 rifle, two M14 rifles and two M16 with attached M203 grenade launchers, in the three encounter sites – 16 in Butuan, three in Bukidnon and one in Misamis Oriental.

Maj. General Jose Maria Cuerpo, 4ID commanding general said soldiers of the 29th Infantry Battalion supported by Philippine Air Force Turkish-made T129B attack helicopters killed three rebels, two of them women, in Mt. Apo-Apo in Sitio Dugyanan, Barangay Anticala in Butuan City last Friday.

It was the first time that the T129B attack helicopters purchased by the Philippine government for US$269 million in a government-to-government contract with Turkey, was reported to have been used in operations against the NPA.

Garello said soldiers on Saturday found two more bodies of NPA rebels — a female and a male – from the June 16 encounter site in Butuan.

“This raised the body count from three to five NPA rebels killed in the encounter last Friday. The soldiers also found one more AK 47 rifle bringing the total number of firearms recovered to 16,” Garello said.

Firearms recovered at the site of encounter with the New People’s Army in Barangay Anticala, Butuan City on Friday, 16 June 2023. Photo courtesy of DPAO, 4ID

He said the bodies of the three female NPA rebels and two of their male companions would be brought down from the mountains by Monday.

In Bukidnon province, Brigadier General Michele Anayron, commanding general of the 403rd Infantry Brigade said soldiers encountered at least 15 NPA rebels in Sitio Malinao, Barangay Kalasungay, Malaybalay City on Saturday, following a tip from residents.

Anayron said a female NPA was killed after a 15-minute encounter with the soldiers of the 8th Infantry Battalion. He said the soldiers suffered no casualties.

Recovered from the encounter site were an AK 47 rifle, an M14 rifle and an improvised anti-personnel landmine, he said.

In Misamis Oriental, one female rebel was killed and an AK 47 rifle was recovered after an encounter with soldiers in in Sitio Kalhaan, Barangay Minalwang, Claveria town Friday afternoon. 

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2023/06/7-rebels-killed-in-butuan-misor-and-bukidnon-5-of-them-women/