AFP counter-intel group reactivated amid coup rumors

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 18, 2023): AFP counter-intel group reactivated amid coup rumors (By MARTIN SADONGDONG)

AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (middle) hands over the office symbol of the Counterintelligence Group (AFPCIG) to acting commander Col. Jonathan Manio while AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon (right) observes during the reactivation of the group at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Jan. 18, 2024. (Photo by AFP)

A key unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that is focused on preventing spying, sabotage, and intelligence gathering has been reactivated on Thursday, Jan. 18, amid rumors of attempts to overthrow the government.

AFP Chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led the reactivation of the AFP Counterintelligence Group (CIG), which was created in 1989 at a time when then President Corazon Aquino faced numerous coup attempts against her administration.

The group's reactivation was based on a memorandum order issued by Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. which took effect on Jan. 11.

The group will be headed by Colonel Jonathan Manio, and supervised by AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon.

Brawner addressed the intelligence personnel making up the AFPCIG and emphasized the group's crucial role "in securing the nation in an ever-shifting global landscape."

"[T]he security of our beloved nation rests upon your capable shoulders. Your tireless efforts will ensnare any threats and guarantee the safety of our treasured citizens," Brawner said.

"May the AFP Counterintelligence Group ascend to unimaginable heights, preserving the rights and liberties of our great nation," he added.

According to the AFP, the reactivation of the Counterintelligence Group was "fueled by the commitment of the Commander-in-Chief (President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.) to secure the nation."

This came after rumors surfaced that retired military and police personnel were urging those in the active service to join efforts in ousting Marcos from power.

In a press conference earlier this week, Brawner had insisted that the troops remain loyal to the Constitution as he dismissed the need for a loyalty check within the military to determine if there are personnel involved in supposed ouster plots.

The AFP said that the AFPCIG was created on Dec. 29, 1989 after the most serious coup attempt against the Aquino administration although public affairs office (PAO) chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad could not pinpoint when the group was deactivated.

The group, according to AFP, also played a vital role in preventing coup attempts in the early 2000s against the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who coincidentally had Teodoro as her defense secretary.

https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/18/afp-counter-intel-group-reactivated-amid-coup-rumors#google_vignette

AFP counter-intel group to help curb espionage, sabotage vs. PH

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 19, 2024): AFP counter-intel group to help curb espionage, sabotage vs. PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BOOSTING COUNTER-INTELLIGENCE. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (left) and AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence, Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon (center) unfurl the banner of the military's Counter-Intelligence Group during its reactivation ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). The unit will assist the military's activities aimed at neutralizing espionage efforts by other countries and their agents. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – A ranking military official said Friday the reactivated Armed Forces of the Philippines Counter-Intelligence Group (AFPCIG) would help the service's counter-intelligence operations nationwide.

"(Its mission is) to conduct counter-intelligence nationwide to support the AFP mission," AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said in a message to the Philippine News Agency when asked about the mandate of the AFPCIG.

Trinidad, citing security reasons, did not provide other details on how these missions would be carried out.

Counter-intelligence refers to military activities aimed at neutralizing espionage efforts by other countries and their agents.

Trinidad said the AFPCIG was ordered reactivated based on a Jan. 11 memorandum issued by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

The AFPCIG was organized and activated on Dec. 29, 1989, and was deactivated in 1995. It is distinct from the Intelligence Service of the AFP.

During the AFPCIG's reactivation ceremony on Thursday, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized the important role of the unit in securing the nation in an ever-shifting global landscape and encouraged its members to strive for excellence, embrace innovations, and uphold the highest standards of integrity.

“To the valiant men and women of the AFPCIG, the security of our beloved nation rests upon your capable shoulders. Your tireless efforts will ensnare any threats and guarantee the safety of our treasured citizens. May the AFP Counter-Intelligence Group ascend to unimaginable heights, preserving the rights and liberties of our great nation,” he said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier directed the AFP to "reconfigure our approaches to dealing with the different threat groups" being faced by the country.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217241

Army: 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Agusan del Norte clash

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 18, 2024): Army: 2 suspected NPA rebels killed in Agusan del Norte clash (By: John Eric Mendoza)

MANILA, Philippines — Another suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel died following an encounter with government forces forces in an Agusan del Norte, the Philippine Army said on Thursday.

The Army said another body was recovered in Sitio Calaitan, Brgy Simbalan, Buenavista after a 10-minute firefight with the 402nd Infantry Brigade last Tuesday.

“The operating troops together with K9 units followed the traces of the fleeing enemy and this resulted in the recovery of two cadavers,” the Army said in a statement.

The two alleged rebels were identified as Wewein Binongcasan alias Bagwis or Lucas, and Analyn Mondas alias Talang or Angela.

Three high-powered firearms were also recovered after the clash.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1891120/killed-alleged-npas-in-agusan-del-norte-clash-climbs-to-2

Suspected NPA rebel killed in NegOr clash

From the Daily Guardian (Jan 19, 2024): Suspected NPA rebel killed in NegOr clash (By Glazyl Y. Masculino)

BACOLOD City – Another suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with government forces at Sitio Sug-ong, Barangay Milagrosa, Sta Catalina, Negros Oriental yesterday.

Troops of the Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) engaged in a firefight with nine alleged remnants of the dismantled South East Front, Komiteng Rehiyon – Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS) operating in the province around 6 a.m., following information about the alleged presence of the group in the area.

The fatality has yet to be identified by the authorities, as of this writing.

Recovered from the encounter site were assorted war materials including an M16 Rifle, three AK47 magazines, an M203 ammunition, and nine backpacks containing some personal belongings.

The captured weapons and other war materiel represent a significant blow to the capability of the NPA in Negros Island, further ensuring the security of the local community, according to the Army.

In a statement, Brigadier General Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade (IBde), said the success of this operation is a testament to the skill and bravery of the forces, as he commended them for their professionalism and dedication.

We remain vigilant and resolute in our mission to protect the community from any potential harm, Escanillas said. He also said that they would continue their operations in pursuit of peace and to pave the way for the development of the area.

He urged the residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities, reinforcing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and order.

Major General Marion Sison, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (ID), said the prompt response and successful prevention of the NPA’s extortion attempts owe much to the local populace’s vigilance in providing timely information.

“Let us continue to work together to achieve our long-desired NPA-free Negros Island,” Sison said in a statement.

This clash came a day after the 62nd IB also figured in an encounter with suspected NPA rebels in Barangay Sag-ang, La Castellana, Negros Occidental last Wednesday, which resulted in the death of two suspected NPA rebels.

Captain Jessie Ebalan, acting civil military operations officer of 303rd IBde, said that 10 families or 50 individuals have been affected by the La Castellana encounter.

Ebalan said that these families had already been given a go signal to return to their respective homes yesterday.

The local government of La Castellana is taking the lead through the Office of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) in coordination with the 62nd IB in managing the affected families of Wednesday’s incident, Ebalan said.

Meanwhile, the NPA’s Apolinario Gatmaitan Command-Negros Island Regional Operational Command slammed the Army for the two encounters in the towns of Calatrava and La Castellana this week.

Ka Maoche Legislador, spokesperson of the group, said the two clashes in the past days were “fake.”

Legislador said that units of the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-NPA Northern Negros Guerrilla Front are all intact and performing their revolutionary tasks with renewed fervor among farmers and farm workers.

The supposed camp raided by 79th IB soldiers in Calatrava town was staged, Legislador said.

The group also said that the two casualties in the La Castellana clash were not members of the NPA.

“As a matter of fact, there was no encounter between the 62nd IB and the NPA that day,” Legislador said.

The AFP’s bases for declaring ‘dismantled’ guerrilla fronts in Negros Island is farther from the truth. The people of Negros Island know that, the group said.

For the Army, these statements of the NPA are just part of their propaganda against the government’s efforts for peace and development.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/suspected-npa-rebel-killed-in-negor-clash/#google_vignette

Think of new ways to fight threat groups, Marcos tells Armed Forces of the Philippines

Posted to Panay News (Jan 19, 2024): Think of new ways to fight threat groups, Marcos tells Armed Forces of the Philippines

Talking about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s (left) first command conference this year, Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) says, “the President said we needed to reconfigure our approaches dealing with different threat groups.”

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to “reconfigure its approach” in dealing with different threat groups in order “to be more effective,” AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

The President said there were no more active guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). But the CPP dismissed that claim, saying Mr. Marcos “is in dreamland.”

Talking about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s first command conference this year, Brawner said in a news conference: “For his guidance, the president said that we needed to reconfigure our approaches dealing with different threat groups.”

The AFP is dealing with various threats, including communist rebels, terrorists, and the dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea.

“We have to think of new ways in dealing with them, innovative ways… When dealing with these threats, [the President] said we need to invoke a whole of nation approach, we need the support of our citizens and the support of our international allies and partners,” Brawner added.

But he said Marcos did not give any particular orders regarding the West Philippine Sea not to micromanage the military.

“He said in his previous speeches that there will be a paradigm shift, but he did not give any specifics because he mentioned that he doesn’t want to micromanage,” the military chief said.

‘Weakened’ NPA fronts

Despite the president’s earlier assertion on Saturday, Brawner said there were still 11 NPA guerrilla fronts with an estimated total of 1,500 fighters, although these fronts have been “weakened.”

The military defines a weakened guerrilla front as being no longer able to recruit new cadres and boost its resources for its armed struggle.

“Even if we were able to decrease the number of guerrilla fronts, there are still NPA formations out there. They’re trying to recover the areas that they have lost,” Brawner said.

Commenting on Marcos’ remarks, CPP spokesperson Marco Valbuena, in a statement on Sunday, said: “Marcos Jr. is in dreamland when he claims there are no more active NPA guerrilla fronts. In truth, the NPA remains active in 14 regional commands across the country, each with a number of guerrilla fronts.”

Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., executive director of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, had also said earlier this month that there were 14 NPA guerrilla fronts still operating.

“With his claims, Marcos should answer why it is that the AFP continues to be focused and deployed mainly against the NPA instead of gearing up to defend the country against US-China armed conflicts,” Valbuena said.

‘Far from defeated’

Valbuena wondered why around 60,000 to 70,000 combat troops of the AFP, together with counterinsurgency units of the Philippine National Police, are regularly deployed against the rebels.

The government also continues to provide huge budgets for its counterinsurgency operations, he added.

“Despite having suffered setbacks over the past years, the NPA is far from defeated,” Valbuena said.

But the military has stepped up its offensive recently, launching a Christmas Day attack on a rebel camp in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, as the rebels, who had unilaterally declared a ceasefire, were preparing for the CPP’s 55th anniversary on Dec. 26 last year.

Before the return to hostilities, the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), the political arm of the insurgents, had already agreed to resume peace negotiations, issuing a joint communiqué on Nov. 28 on reviving the talks.

NDFP leaders had noted then the significance of the talks being possibly revived on the watch of the son and namesake of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., considering that the rebellion was organized to oppose his regime.

On March 29, the NPA will mark its 55th anniversary, a milestone indicating that the communist rebellion has spanned more than half a century. (Delfin T. Mallari Jr., Frances Mangosing © Philippine Daily Inquirer)

https://www.panaynews.net/think-of-new-ways-to-fight-threat-groups-marcos-tells-armed-forces-of-the-philippines/

Año: PH peace situation has ‘greatly improved’

From Malaya Business Insight (Jan 18, 2024): Año: PH peace situation has ‘greatly improved’ (By Victor Reyes)

NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año yesterday questioned a travel advisory issued by Canada that told its citizens to “exercise high of caution in the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping.”

“While we appreciate their concern for the safety and security of Canadian citizens, we wish to express our disagreement with the basis and scope of the advisory,” he said.

Año said the peace situation in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, has “greatly improved,” noting the country’s improved ranking in the Global Terrorism Index, from being part of Top 10 a few years ago to No. 18 last year.

“The Philippines also ranked 115th in the Global Peace Index in 2023 scoring 6 points for positive change,” he also said.

He invited representatives from the Canadian government to a “constructive dialogue” with Philippine officials “to better understand the context and nuances of the security situation.”

“Such discussions will help ensure that travel advisories accurately reflect the current conditions in the Philippines,” said Año.

“While we respect the right of every country to issue travel advisories based on the safety of their citizens, we believe that a more nuanced approach will be beneficial. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all visitors, including Canadian nationals, and we are open to working together to address any concerns,” he added.

The advisory, issued on January 10, told Canadian citizens to “avoid all travel” to Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi “due to the presence of extremist groups, serious threat of attacks, kidnapping, piracy and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

It likewise asked Canadians to also “avoid all travel” to Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay “due to the serious threat of terrorism, kidnapping, high levels of crime, and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

The advisory also advised Canadians to “avoid non-essential travel” in Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte (excluding Siargao Island), Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte

Davao del Sur (excluding Davao City), Davao Occidental and Davao Oriental some parts of eastern Mindanao “due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, high levels of crime, and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.”

Año said government has implemented “comprehensive measures to enhance peace and security in Mindanao” and has been unrelenting in addressing root causes of violence and rebellion in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)

He said the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Act that created BARMM “significantly reduced violent incidents in Mindanao.”

“This significant reduction in incidents signifies successful law enforcement operations contributing to a safer and more stable environment in Mindanao,” said Año.

He also noted President Marcos Jr’ announcement that there are no more active guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army and 1,399 communists and terrorists were neutralized last year.

https://malaya.com.ph/news_news/ano-ph-peace-situation-has-greatly-improved/

Sec. Galvez, Gen. Rillera join Bishop Ulama Dialogue meeting in Cotabato City

Posted to the Notre Dame Broadcasting Corporation Website (Jan 18, 2024): Sec. Galvez, Gen. Rillera join Bishop Ulama Dialogue meeting in Cotabato City (6th ID News Release)

Members of Bishop-Ulama Dialogue gathered in Cotabato City with Peace Adviser Sec. Carlito Galvez and 6th ID chief Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera in attendance. (6th ID photo)


CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte - In commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the January 24 Peace Day, the Mindanao Ulama-Bishop Dialogue Meeting and Joint Statement on the December 3, 2023 Mindanao State University-Marawi Bombing Incident was held at the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA), Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City on January 16, 2024.

To show his support, Major General Alex Rillera, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central attended the said dialogue along with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Hon. Carlito Galvez Jr. and his team; His Eminence Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo, O.M.I., D.D.; Most Reverend Antonio Ledesma S.J D.D.; Sheikh Mohamad Pangca; HWPL Philippines Chief Branch Manager John Rommel Garces; and other attendees.

Religious leaders also came together, acknowledging the bombing incident, to express their collective grief and concern, condemning violence and emphasizing the need of continuous efforts to forge understanding between all faiths. From the community of Islam, Dr. Muhammad Nadzir Ebil, Shari’a Doctor and Executive Assistant III at Bangsamoro Darul Ifta gave his message while Most Rev. Edwin de la Peña, M.S.P., D.D., Bishop, Prelature of St. Mary’s Marawi gave his message from the Catholic current situation in Marawi.

The security and peace landscape of BARMM and the rest of Mindanao was also discussed during the said meeting.

The dialogue meeting and discussion for the joint statement emphasized the significance of promoting understanding among the diverse religious communities in Mindanao, fostering interfaith cooperation and mutual respect as a means to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

https://www.ndbcnews.com.ph/news/sec-galvez-gen-rillera-join-bishop-ulama-dialogue-meeting-cotabato-city

2 more Yakan clans in Basilan end 'rido'

From the Philippine Star (Jan 18, 2024): 2 more Yakan clans in Basilan end 'rido' (John Unson)

Leaders of the Asarul and Karim families agreed to reconcile through the joint intercession of local executives, the police and the military.  Philstar.com / John Unson

COTABATO CITY — Two more enemy Yakan clans in Basilan that lost their members in a gunfight last November 8 in an incident that went viral on Facebook reconciled on Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, said on Thursday that the leaders of the Asarul and Karim clans in Sumisip, Basilan have signed a peace covenant, ending a two-month standoff that residents in the municipality feared would escalate into clashes that can affect their lives.

The "rido", or clan war between the two groups was triggered by the fatal shooting of Nasser Asarul by Basid Karim inside a roadside eatery in Barangay Buli-Buli in Sumisip. Karim was shot dead too by policemen who were dining in the establishment.

“Now there is no more tension between these two clans,” Nobleza said.

Nobleza said the Asarul and Karim families agreed to settle the conflict during a dialogue at the headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade in Tabiawan in Isabela City in Basilan.

Nobleza said that the amicable settlement of the Asarul-Karim rido was brokered by Gov. Hadjiman Salliman, Sumisip municipal officials, Army Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon of the 101st Infantry Brigade and Basilan’s police director Col. Carlos Madronio.

The two groups signed a peace covenant barely a day after two feuding groups in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Hadji Muhammad Ajul town forged a peace covenant that ended a three-year rido, touted as Basilan's deadliest and had exacted no fewer than 20 fatalities on each side.

The leaders of the two rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front factions, Geon Arasad and Tanad Nasalon, also agreed to thrive in peace anew through the efforts of the local executives, Army and police officials responsible for reconciling the Asarul and Karim clans.

 
https://qa.philstar.com/nation/2024/01/18/2326765/2-more-yakan-clans-basilan-end-rido

DND implements stricter measures to enhance cybersecurity

From Palawan News (Jan 17, 2024): DND implements stricter measures to enhance cybersecurity (By Andrew Atienza)

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. pushes for stricter operational security, more responsive cybersecurity paradigm. (Photo from the Department of National Defense.)

To enhance cybersecurity infrastructure and processes, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., disclosed that the Department of National Defense (DND) is undertaking a transition to stricter operational security during a conference on Tuesday.

The Stratbase ADR Institute organized cybersecurity in partnership with the Embassy of Canada in Manila, Teodoro said.

Teodoro said the vulnerabilities in cyberspace meant that the DND had to transition into stricter operational security.

“It starts with individual security, facility security, digital hygiene, and the architecture that we’re going to put into our systems,” Teodoro said.

https://palawan-news.com/dnd-implements-stricter-measures-to-enhance-cybersecurity/

Soldier dies, one hurt in Tubungan clash

From Panay News (Jan 19, 2023): Soldier dies, one hurt in Tubungan clash (By Ruby P. Silubrico)

Palma. JOSELEMON ALFANZA PHOTO / FACEBOOK

ILOILO City – A member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was killed and one other was wounded in an encounter with the New People’s Army (NPA) on Wednesday in Barangay Igpaho, Tubungan, Iloilo.

Slain soldier Private First Class Rodelo Alfanza Palma of Negros Occidental was assigned to the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB). He succumbed to a gunshot wound to the neck.

Palma’s companion with the rank of Sergeant, meanwhile, is currently confined in a hospital.

The incident happened at 10:30 a.m., while personnel of the 61IB were conducting a combat operation in the said area.

They clashed with 15 armed men of the Puregold (SYP) Platoon, SPF, KR-Panay under Nahum Camariosa alias “Bebong,” according to Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID).

Javines said that the firefight lasted for 12 minutes after the rebels scampered in different directions.

The army believed that there were undetermined casualties on the rebels’ side due to heavy bloodstains found in their withdrawal route, Javines added.

“As of now, our soldiers are still conducting a hot pursuit operation against the rebels. We also sent more personnel to the area for augmentation,” he said.

On the other hand, Brigadier General Michael Samson, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, was saddened by the death of their soldier and for the wounded other.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of our comrade who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our people and nation. Another hero sacrificed his life to give peace a chance. The death of our companion does not terrify us, but instead, it reminds us to give our very best to put an end to the decades-long cruelty of the rebels,” Samson said.

https://www.panaynews.net/soldier-dies-one-hurt-in-tubungan-clash/

3 rebels killed in 2 days of gunbattle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 19, 2024): 3 rebels killed in 2 days of gunbattle (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Backpacks left behind by the fleeing rebels and recovered M16 assault rifle with magazines containing ammunition for AK 47 rifle at the encounter site in Brgy. Milagrosa, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.* PA photo

Another New People’s Army rebel was killed yesterday in another encounter in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, increasing to three the number of NPA combatants that died since January 17.

The latest encounter ensued between 11th Infantry Battalion troopers and about nine remnants of the dismantled South East Front of the Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros/Cebu/Bohol/Siquijor at about 6 a.m. yesterday at Sitio Sug-ong in Brgy. Milagrosa, Santa Catalina.

The armed skirmishes led to the death of a suspected NPA member, whose identity has yet to be established as of this time, and the recovery of an M16 assault rifle, three AK47 assault rifle magazines containing ammunition, an M203 grenade launcher ammunition, and nine backpacks containing personal belongings.

On Wednesday, two suspected remnants of the dismantled Central Negros 1 guerilla front also died, following an encounter with 62IB soldiers in Hacienda Gomez, Brgy. Sag-ang La Castellana.

Recovered from that encounter site were an AR15 assault rifle, a .45 caliber pistol, a homemade 12-gauge shotgun, assorted magazines of firearms with ammunition, two backpacks containing assorted medical paraphernalia and personal belongings, as well as subversive documents.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office has recorded 31 families, composed of 126 individuals, that temporarily evacuated from their homes in Hacienda Gomez and neighboring areas in Brgy. Sag ang, La Castellana, as a result of the encounter

PCol. Leo Pamittan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, yesterday said that the affected families have already returned to their respective homes after the area was cleared by the Philippine Army.

Pamittan said that the rebel remnants fled from the hinterlands of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, to the far flung areas of La Castellana in Negros Occidental, to avoid the focused military operations of the Philippine Army.

With the dwindling of their numbers, the NPA remnants are now trying to regain the support of the masses, whom they will use as “force multipliers,” he added.

The encounters in La Castellana and Santa Catalina took place several days after 79IB soldiers also overran and recovered assorted firearms, following an encounter with about five remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front in Brgy. Cambayobo, Calatrava, Negros Occidental.*

https://visayandailystar.com/3-rebels-killed-in-2-days-of-gunbattle/

Philippine Navy seizes bomb ingredient, smuggled goods off Sulu

From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 18, 2024): Philippine Navy seizes bomb ingredient, smuggled goods off Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Philippine patrol ships seized 164 bags of ammonium nitrate, an ingredient used by terrorists in the manufacture of improvised explosives, and smuggled cigarettes and fuel in separate operations off the southern province of Sulu.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao released photos of the operations that resulted in the seizure of ammonium nitrate, smuggled cigarettes and fuel off the southern Sulu province.

The operations were mounted on January 13-14 but were only announced on Thursday for a still unknown reason.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao said patrol units from the Naval Task Force 61 intercepted M/L Somewhere-5 loaded with the banned chemical while heading to the island-town of Pangutaran. It said the illegal cargo, worth over P3 million allegedly came from Palawan province.

The Navy has not released the name of the boat's owner or whether any arrest was made but said the task force and members of the Bureau of Customs also intercepted two other motor launches transporting cigarettes, fuel, automatic rifle and a pistol.

It said M/B JFM was loaded with some 700 boxes of undocumented cigarettes worth P 14 million and during inspection, Navy personnel recovered one M653 automatic rifle and a .45-caliber pistol from the boat. It said the boat was heading to Palawan from Pangutaran.

"The vessel, M/B JFM also carried illegal firearms, including one M653 rifle and one .45 caliber pistol with accompanying ammunition, allegedly originating from the Municipality of Pangutaran Sulu and heading towards Palawan. However, due to engine trouble, the vessel returned to the municipality of Pangutaran and was then intercepted by the operatives somewhere in North Ubian (also in Pangutaran)," the Naval Forces Western Mindanao said.

The task force also intercepted M/L Fatima Daniya off Sulu's Basbas Island transporting some 100,000 liters of undocumented fuel worth about P6.5 million which allegedly originated from the town of Mapun in Tawi-Tawi province.

The names of the crew member and owners of M/B JFM and M/L Fatima Daniya were not made public by the Navy or the Bureau of Customs. But one photo released by the Naval Forces Western Mindanao shows 18 people, including a boy, being served coffee on a navy patrol.

Rear Admiral Donn Anthony Miraflor, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, lauded the operations and "expressed satisfaction and pride, stating that the success of this operation underscores the professionalism and dedication of Naval Forces Western Mindanao in safeguarding the country's maritime boundaries and upholding the rule of law." (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/01/philippine-navy-seizes-bomb-ingredient.html

NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Give up lost cause, rejoin society

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Give up lost cause, rejoin society (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Thursday reiterated its appeal to all remnants of the New People's Army (NPA) to peacefully surrender and rejoin their families rather than sacrifice their lives for a lost cause.

"Rather than sacrificing your lives for a lost cause and obsolete ideology, lay down your arms, surrender peacefully, avail the government’s amnesty and other related reintegration programs, and return to mainstream society as productive and law-abiding citizens," the task force said in a social media post.

During the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Command Conference last Jan. 15, the military said there remained only 11 weakened NPA guerilla fronts and "a little over 1,500" insurgent fighters nationwide.

The AFP also expressed hope that they will be able to defeat the remaining insurgents within the year.

NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. also urged the remaining 1,500 NPA remnants to lay down their arms and avail of the government's amnesty and integration programs.

"Surrender peacefully, and avail the government's amnesty program and other related programs for their complete reintegration into mainstream society," he added.

Torres also urged all remaining NPA insurgents, interested in surrendering, to communicate to local peace engagement councils and the municipal and provincial affiliates of the NTF-ELCAC.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217156

DND to work with JICA in identifying maritime security projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): DND to work with JICA in identifying maritime security projects (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MARITIME SECURITY COOPERATION. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (front row, center) meets with officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), led by Director General Tanaka Hiroo (front row, 2nd from right), and Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko (front row, 2nd from left) at the DND main office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). During their meeting, Teodoro and the JICA officials committed to identifying possible maritime security cooperation projects in the Philippines. (Photo courtesy of the DND)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) has committed to working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in identifying maritime security cooperation projects in the country.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. made this remark during Thursday's meeting with JICA's delegation headed by its Director General Tanaka Hiroo at the DND main office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

In a statement, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the meeting tackled how the Japanese government, through the Official Development Assistance and Official Security Assistance (OSA), could further contribute to enhancing the Philippines’ maritime domain awareness capabilities amid the evolving security challenges in the region.

Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko and other officials of the Japanese Embassy in Manila also joined the meeting.

"Highlighting the importance of sustaining regional peace and stability, Secretary Teodoro reaffirmed the DND and AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines) full commitment to working with JICA in identifying maritime security cooperation projects while adopting a holistic approach to address traditional and non-traditional security concerns for long-term economic development," Andolong said.

During the state visit of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to the Philippines in November last year, Manila and Tokyo signed and exchanged notes on Japan’s grant of coastal surveillance radars to the Philippines worth 600 million yen (about PHP226 million) through the OSA.

"Secretary Teodoro also encouraged the JICA delegation to engage with relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Transportation, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, among others, and Local Government Units to further capacitate not just the capability requirements of the Philippine Navy, but also maritime law enforcement agencies and Filipino fisherfolks," Andolong said.

The meeting ended with a possible cooperation between Manila and Tokyo on information sharing, hardware and software support, and technical assistance, he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217238

Rebel killed in Negros Oriental town armed encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 18, 2024): Rebel killed in Negros Oriental town armed encounter (By Mary Judaline Partlow)

NEUTRALIZED. Army soldiers of the 11th Infantry Battalion recovered a high-powered firearm, ammunition, and personal belongings following an encounter with suspected New People's Army rebels in Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024). The clash resulted in the death of an NPA member. (Photo courtesy of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army)

DUMAGUETE CITY – A suspected member of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with government troops in Sta. Catalina town, Negros Oriental, Thursday.

Lt. Col. Michael Aquino, commanding officer of the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Siaton, Negros Oriental, told the Philippine News Agency that the clash came following reports of armed men in the community.

Around nine suspected NPA members and remnants of the dismantled South East Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor were allegedly extorting money from residents in Barangay Milagrosa in Sta. Catalina town.

The soldiers clashed with the rebels for about 20 minutes at Sitio Sug-ong, Barangay Milagrosa, before the latter fled to different directions, leaving behind their slain companion and personal belongings.

Recovered from the encounter site were one (1) M16 rifle; three (3) AK47 magazines; one (1) M203 ammunition; and nine (9) backpacks containing personal belongings.

The slain rebel has yet to be identified.

Meanwhile, another member of the remnant of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA party committee in Bohol province was shot and killed during an encounter last Tuesday in Barangay Liboron, Catigbbian town.

Julieto Rizaldo Alban of the dismantled Bohol Party Committee (BPC) of Komiteng Rehiyon Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor, had a pending warrants of arrest for murder, multiple attempted murder, and attempted homicide.

Troopers recovered in Alban’s possession a caliber 45 pistol, a hand grenade, several magazines, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

IED components recovered

Meanwhile, Police operatives recovered components for improvised explosives devices (IEDs) believed to have been buried by NPA rebels at Sitio Badjang, Barangay Dobdob, Valencia, Negros Oriental.

The components included three pieces main charge; three pieces peanut bulbs; three pieces of one-meter firing wire; one piece 9-volts Energizer battery; and one switch.

Barangay Dobdob is one of the identified conflict areas in the province affected by the Communist insurgency and is on the list of priority areas under the whole-of-nation-approach through the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The recovered items were turned over to the Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit (PECU) of NOPPO for proper and safe disposition. (With reports by John Rey Saavedra/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1217220

CPP/Ang Bayan: CPP condemns AFP’s use of excessive force in Bukidnon aerial bombing

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024): CPP condemns AFP’s use of excessive force in Bukidnon aerial bombing

 

This article is available in Pilipino/Iloco/Bisaya/Hiligaynon



January 07, 2024

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CCP) strongly condemned the “disproportionate use of force” or excessive use of firepower against units of the New People’s Army in Bukidnon last week of December. This violates international humanitarian law which guides the conduct of modern warfare.

The Tactical Air Wing of the 4th ID dropped four bombs on a guerrilla camp in Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on December 25, 2023. Two days later, it dropped more bombs in Sitio Bagong Lipunan, Barangay Linabo in the town of Quezon. The dropping of several 250-pound bombs, and the sowing of terror among the people by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Bukidnon, was excessive and indiscriminate.

The bombing killed 10 individuals who were then in the NPA camp. The bodies of the killed were mangled due to the AFP’s use of excessively powerful bombs, reports indicate. The AFP also used ATMOS 2000 howitzers bought by the AFP from Israel.

The use of powerful bombs is “inherently indiscriminate”, endangers the lives and livelihoods of civilians and brings extensive destruction to the environment. In reality, the impact of the AFP’s aerial bombardment is beyond ground zero. It disrupted the peace, caused widespread fear, panic and trauma to the residents of the nearby communities and destroyed mountain resources that are their source of food and livelihood.

The AFP carried out the attack amid the traditional holiday celebrations and a two-day unilateral ceasefire by the CPP on December 25, 2023 to December 26, 2023 night.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/cpp-condemns-afps-use-of-excessive-force-in-bukidnon-aerial-bombing/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Military kills 4 civilians in Sorsogon, Batangas and Iloilo

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024): Military kills 4 civilians in Sorsogon, Batangas and Iloilo

 

This article is available in Pilipino/Iloco/Bisaya/Hiligaynon



January 07, 2024

Soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) killed two civilians on December 10 in Iloilo and December 17 in Sorsogon last year. Meanwhile, military forces also killed two civilians visiting their Red fighter relatives in Batangas on December 17, 2023.

Bloodthirsty fascists of the 31st Division Reconnaissance Company (DRC) killed a civilian who suffered from mental illness, Bombik Bajoyo, on December 10, 2023 in Sitio Tagbakan 1, Barangay Jayubo, Lambunao, Iloilo. The fascists falsely claim Bajoyo is a New People’s Army (NPA)-Central Panay member who was supposedly killed in an encounter.

Residents of Sityo Jagnaya assert that Bajoyo was a civilian and that he had a mental disability. They say soldiers likely killed him when they mistook him for a Red fighter. The victim has been living in Sityo Tagbakan for six years, residents say.

In Sorsogon, the 31st IB killed Joseph Esperanzate at his home in Purok Iraya, Barangay Union in Gubat, on December 17, 2023 around 4 a.m. Esperanzate had long took leave from the NPA and was leading a civilian life. Since 2019, he was being harassed by the military to enlist in E-CLIP but refused saying he wanted to live quietly.

In Batangas, the 59th IB killed civilians Pretty Sheine Anacta, 19, and Rose Jane Agda, 30, in indiscriminate firing in Barangay Malalay, Balayan, Batangas on December 17, 2023 at dawn. The two were visiting their NPA Red fighter relatives when they were killed.

Reports gathered by the NPA say Pretty Sheine passed out in the fascist troopers’ first burst of shooting before they finished her off. Rose Jane’s remains were found at the funeral home with her pants down, a sign she was likely sexually assaulted.

Meanwhile, the military abducted and still is secretly keeping wounded fighter Baby Jane Orbe (Ka Binhi). She was in no condition to fight. According to the rules of international humanitarian law, her rights must be recognized by enemy armed forces. Five Red fighters were also martyred in that incident.

Abduction. Troopers of the 62nd IB abducted young farmer Allan Paul Rayna at his family’s house on December 23, 2023 in Sitio Tayubong, Barangay Puso, La Castellana, Negros Occidental. He has not been found to date. The Rayna family is extremely worried about the condition of their relative.

Eviction. The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) gave 200 families living at the Narra Dormitory in Barangay Maligaya, Mariveles, Bataan only until January 6 to leave. Residents are being evicted because planned FAB expansion will cover the area.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/military-kills-4-civilians-in-sorsogon-batangas-and-iloilo/

CPP/Ang Bayan: AFP puppets still amassing profits under the Marcos Jr regime

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024): AFP puppets still amassing profits under the Marcos Jr regime

 

This article is available in Pilipino/Iloco/Bisaya/Hiligaynon



January 07, 2024

Ferdinand Marcos Jr., along with his accomplices in Congress and the Senate, inserted ₱6.17 billion budget for the Department of National Defense into the 2024 national budget he passed and signed on December 20.

In addition, Marcos increased the budget of the Philippine Coast Guard by ₱2.8 billion and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) by ₱1 billion. (The addition almost doubled NICA’s budget from its original budget of ₱1.432 billion.)

Even during deliberations at the Congress and Senate levels alone, the defense budget was already raised by 21.6% from ₱203.4 billion in 2023 to ₱282.7 billion this year. Confidential and intelligence fund amounting to ₱1.5 billion was also added purportedly for operations in the West Philippine Sea. Taken together, the funding allocated to the DND and other security agencies is now the highest since 2017. This is equivalent to more than 1.25% of GDP, the highest in the past 15 years.

Martin Romualdez and Juan Miguel Zubiri, heads of Congress and Senate, say the additional funds are for “dealing with the threat” of China in the West Philippine Sea. DND Secretary Gilbert Teodoro meanwhile said that this is for the “intense and serious repair” of AFP military facilities and equipment. Both purposes serve the US aims of strengthening its power projection and war provocations in the South China Sea and building its network of military bases and facilities in AFP camps, all using the Filipino people’s money.

Military funding was increased after weeks of fending off the threats of destabilization by the Duterte faction. A number of military officers remain loyal to the clique, although many of the favored generals are already retired. Soldiers, as well as police, were fully satiated under Duterte. Their salaries were doubled and excessive amounts of benefits were given them. Hundreds of millions of pesos were rewarded to generals, commanders and soldiers for their extrajudicial killings, mostly of civilians. The Duterte clique poured funds for corruption in the form of the NTF-Elcac’s Barangay Development Program. For six years, the group allocated billions of pesos to buy second-hand jet fighters, ships, drones, cannons and various other military equipment from the US and its allied countries, such as Israel.

At its core, the “modernization” of the AFP is nothing but the sale and dumping of surplus and mostly old US equipment to arm its puppet army. Almost all of its purchased weapons are focused on “defeating” the revolutionary armed movement and not on the “external threat,” as the AFP has repeatedly declared. The joint interest of the US and the AFP is to defeat the revolutionary movement because it is a threat to its hegemony in Asia due to the Philippines’ unique geographical location in the region. For now, the US is strengthening the AFP’s campaign to “crush” the New People’s Army because it wants to fully use the puppet army to incite war with China.

Like Duterte, Marcos uses the large funds for “modernization” to consolidate his hold on the mercenary military and buy the loyalty of the factions held by his rival clique.

The veil of “security” and confidentiality exempts the AFP’s “modernization” from many of processes mandated by the Procurement Law. It avoids public bidding, to deliberately hide the process of arms procurement from the public. Thus, its officials easily manipulate major contracts and the accompanying service and parts contracts.

The AFP spent the biggest part of its funds to purchase jet fighters, drones, helicopters and cannons to launch a campaign of indiscriminate bombing and shelling. The Duterte regime started this campaign which has caused severe damage to civilian communities and forests.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/afp-puppets-still-amassing-profits-under-the-marcos-jr-regime/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA punishes mercenaries behind the Sagay massacre

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024): NPA punishes mercenaries behind the Sagay massacre

 

This article is available in Pilipino/Iloco/Bisaya/Hiligaynon



January 07, 2024

The New People’S Army (NPA)-Northern Negros launched simultaneous armed actions against the mercenary Sarona Group on January 2 in the town of Purok Kawayan, Barangay Bug-ang, Toboso, Negros Occidental.

The NPA ambushed and killed the leader of the group, Juvie Sarona. The tractor owned by his father was also paralyzed and burned. An M2 Carbine, a .45 Colt, a .357 revolver, a shotgun, various magazines and ammunition were confiscated from the house of the Saronas. Gadgets containing important information was also taken.

The group was involved in the massacre of nine sugarcane workers on October 20, 2018. The so-called “Sagay massacre” took place in Barangay Bulanon, Sagay City. It was also paid for and supported by the military and big comprador-landlords and hacienderos on the island.

The people of Northern Negros who suffered under the oppression and exploitation of the Saronas applauded the punishment which to them is justice attained.

Meanwhile, NPA-Central Negros ambushed CAFGU element Sunnyboy Teves in Sityo Tulingon, Barangay Binubohan, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental on December 27, 2023. Teves was involved in many crimes against the masses of Central Negros.

The NPA thanked the masses who helped carry out the armed action and their continued support for the people’s army.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/npa-punishes-mercenaries-behind-the-sagay-massacre/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Gatherings commemorate 55th Party anniversary

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024): Gatherings commemorate 55th Party anniversary

This article is available in Pilipino/Iloco/Hiligaynon



January 07, 2024

Branches and committees of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), units of the New People’s Army (NPA), the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and its allied organizations launched celebrations, gatherings and study meetings in various parts of the country over the last two weeks of December 2023. This was to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Party last December 26.

The gatherings discussed mainly the Party’s Central Committee (CC) statement on the occasion of the anniversary. The discussions centered on the Party rectification movement spearheaded by the CC.

The Party called to “decisively and vigorously carry forward a comprehensive rectification movement to wage a crucial struggle to repudiate the pernicious effect and influences of various strains of bourgeois and petty-bourgeois subjectivism.”

In some areas, a simple get-together and program was held with the masses. There were also cultural performances. These activities were held despite focused military operations in several fronts, and in secret gatherings in the city unknown to the enemy.

Before and on the day of the anniversary, Party cadres and members, including those within the people’s army, also took pledges to strengthen their commitment to the constitution and its program.
KM in Southern Tagalog

Among those who celebrated were hundreds of young people from different parts of Southern Tagalog led by Kabataang Makabayan (KM) in the region. Its chapters discussed the statement of the CC and the Party Regional Committee. Some of them celebrated in the guerilla fronts along with the NPA.
According to Karina Mabini, the KM regional branch spokesperson, it is only proper to review both the achievements and weaknesses in order to continue advancing wave upon wave with the people. The initiations of the rectification movement was warmly received by their membership.

In the gathering of its urban chapters, KM-Southern Tagalog stated that its program includes exposure plans with NPA units. KM-Southern Tagalog members who previously immersed in the people’s army unit also shared their experience in said activity.

Meanwhile, KM members felt elated and secure during celebrations in a unit of the people’s army. According to some attendees, “it raises our spirit to continue mass campaigns and advance the revolution.” At a coffee session before returning to the city, visitors shared how they immediately felt secure and relaxed when they reached the guerrilla front and found their comrade Red fighters there. Some of the members of KM-Southern Tagalog decided to stay behind to become fulltime fighters.
Greetings from the international community

Various international parties and organizations also conveyed solidarity and greetings on the occasion of the Party’s anniversary. Organizations from India, Turkey, the United States, and Ireland, and the Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle (FFPS) issued statements of solidarity.

In a video-statement, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) honored the CPP for over five decades of leading the Filipino people’s national-democratic struggle.

“Since over five decades ago, the Philippines’ national-democratic struggle has been advancing under the guidance of the CPP Central Committee despite countless trials and rectifications and weaknesses and twists and turns,” according to the CPI (Maoist).

Anti-Imperialist Action-Ireland recognized the Party’s “bold new step” in launching the rectification movement. The group says “it will produce a new generation of revolutionary flag-bearers and revolutionaries from among the Filipino people.” They added that they have full confidence in the Party and are proud to be witnessing another important phase in the Philippine revolution.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/gatherings-commemorate-55th-party-anniversary/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Editorial--Advance and thoroughly carry out the rectification movement!

Propaganda editorial from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 7, 2024):Advance and thoroughly carry out the rectification movement!


This article is available in Pilipino/Bisaya/Iloco/Hiligaynon

January 07, 2024

Party cadres and committees around the country welcomed the call of the Central Committee in its statement on the Party’s 55th anniversary to advance and thoroughly carry out the rectification movement to strengthen the Party in its leadership of the Filipino people’s resistance to the US-Marcos regime and the people’s democratic revolution.

Cadres, mass activists and fighters were filled with new revolutionary energy and determination. They were roused by the Central Committee’s analysis of the current situation and its self-critical assessment of the revolutionary movement in recent years. They are fully determined to rectify errors, weaknesses and shortcomings, and strengthen the Party and the Philippine revolution.

The Party and the Central Committee shined a light on the path to renew the strengthen and advance the revolution in the coming period. It repudiated the bourgeois and petty bourgeois thoughts and mode of thinking within the party. These have caused the Right and “Left” errors, weaknesses and opportunist tendencies which have hindered the revolution’s progress in recent years. These mistakes have led to losses and reversals in the field of armed struggle, as well as in the field of the revolutionary mass movement in the cities and countryside.

The rectification movement is mainly a study movement on Marxism-Leninism-Maoism and the Party’s basic principles. It aims to further strengthen the Party ideologically as the firm foundation for carrying out duties in various fields of revolutionary work.

Party cadres are determined to read and hold discussions as a way of reviewing the basic revolutionary principles. They are resolute in their decision to sharpen their proletarian minds to sharply analyze their experiences, self-criticize and forge a correct plan to advance.

The writings of the Party’s founding chair Ka Jose Maria Sison, as well as the classic writings of the great communist teachers Marx, Engels, Lenin, Stalin and Mao are actively being reviewed by cadres and revolutionary forces. They aim to raise their knowledge of theory to serve as guide to the study of practical or daily issues in waging armed struggle and advancing the revolutionary mass movement.

Along the framework of the rectification movement, a movement to conduct social investigation and class analysis was launched by the Central Committee at the beginning of the year to be conducted at all levels of the Party in both the countryside and cities–from the national leadership to the basic branches. The Central Committee is mobilizing cadres and activists to determine and report the concrete situation of the masses in their respective areas to deepen our grasp of the worsening degeneration of the semicolonial and semifeudal system. The particular aim of this movement is to identify the key problems and issues of the masses to serve as basis for plans to unite and mobilize them in the fight to defend their economic and democratic rights.

The Party’s humble self-criticism and the initiation of the rectification movement indicates its firm adherence to dialectical and historical materialism, and is the mark of a communist party that is faithful to the interests of the proletariat and all the oppressed and exploited classes. This way, the Party is confident of revitalizing the revolution, recovering losses and leading the revolutionary struggle to another phase of advance.

In particular, the Party believes that through the rectification movement, the revolutionary movement will advance in all-rounded way. The Party must handle and comprehensively advance the promotion of long-term people’s war through a comprehensive and intense guerrilla warfare on the basis of expanding and deepening mass bases, or in other words, comprehensive and coherent promotion of armed struggle, agrarian revolution and strengthening the organized mass base.

The armed struggle is being waged in conjunction with advancing the revolutionary mass movement in the cities and the countryside, strengthening the antifascist, anti-imperialist and antifeudal movement against the ruling oppressive, puppet and fascist US-Marcos regime, expanding the united front, and tightening solidarity of the international anti-imperialist movement and world proletarian revolution.

The Party anticipates that under the guidance of the rectification movement, great strides will be made in the coming years. Even now, units of the New People’s Army are working hard to break free from the enemy’s massive focused military operations. The NPA is firmly determined to widen its guerrilla fronts and expand the mass base, while thoroughly fighting alongside the peasant masses against the AFP’s maniacal and blood-thirsty war of armed suppression.

In the face of the worsening rural suffering, the Party sees the mobilization of hundreds of thousands to millions of peasants and minority masses across the country against worsening forms of feudal and semifeudal exploitation, and against land grabbing and the aggressive entry of mining operations, plantations, infrastructure, ecotourism and other projects that plunder wealth and the environment.

In the face of the worsening suffering in the cities, the Party sees the heightening of the economic and political struggles of various democratic sectors against the US-Marcos regime’s pro-imperialist and oppressive policies. The growth of the revolutionary movement in the cities will directly serve the growing support for and mass recruitment of workers, workers, young students, teachers and other intellectuals to the NPA.

The first and second great rectification movements were crucial stages in the Party’s history which both steered the Philippine revolution to the path of renewed advance. The current rectification movement that is being thoroughly being carried out by cadres and fighters—like the first and second—will undoubtedly bear historical significance in bringing the people’s democratic revolution to a higher level of advance.

[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines and is issued by the CPP Central Committee. It provides news about the work of the Party as well as its analysis of and views on current issues. Ang Bayan comes out fortnightly and is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Ilokano, Waray, Hiligaynon and English.]

https://philippinerevolution.nu/2024/01/07/advance-and-thoroughly-carry-out-the-rectification-movement/

CPP/NPA-Cagayan Valley (ROC): Patuloy na magpupunyagi ang BHB-Cagayan Valley

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 16, 2024): Patuloy na magpupunyagi ang BHB-Cagayan Valley (NPA-Cagayan Valley will continue to strive)

 

Ang artikulong ito ay may salin sa Iloco

Elias Almazan

Political Officer

Cagayan Valley Regional Operational Command (Fortunato Camus Command)

New People's Army

January 16, 2024

Sa kabila ng kaliwa’t kanang pagkokoro ng mga heneral at ng mismong suntok sa buwan na anunsyo ni Marcos Jr na wala nang mga aktibong larangang gerilya sa buong bansa, tuluy-tuloy pa rin naman ang deployment ng mga bagong pwersa ng AFP sa mga prubinsya at komunidad sa kanayunan. Dagdag ang mga ito sa dati nang mga pwersa na hanggang ngayon ay walang-puknat pa ring naglulunsad ng mga focused military operations at okupasyon sa mga baryo sa tabing nga retooled community support program.

Sa katunayan, nitong Enero 16 lamang ay nagkaroon ng send-off ceremony sa higit 100 bagong sundalo ng 5th Infantry Division na ipapakat sa iba’t ibang prubinsya upang “tuluyang masugpo ang insurhensiya sa buong nasasakupan ng 5th ID” kabilang na ang Cagayan Valley. Taliwas ito sa mga pagmamayabang ni MGen Audrey Pasia, kumander ng 5th ID, noong nakaraang Disyembre na “wala nang kakayahang” maglunsad ng pulitiko-militar na gawain ang NPA sa rehiyon at tinatanaw na nila ang “total victory” laban sa BHB-CV ngayong unang bahagi ng taon.

Ilang araw lang din bago nito, nagpahayag ang Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) na magtutuluy-tuloy pa rin ang kanilang security operations and security engagements ngayong taon. Mismong inamin ng Nolcom na hindi sila nagpapakampante sa sinasabi nilang mga “natitirang” myembro ng NPA na posible pa ring makapaglunsad ng mga rebolusyonaryong gawain.

Batid ng mamamayan na hungkag ang mga deklarasyong ito ni Marcos Jr at ng AFP. Desperadong hakbang lamang ito at konswelo de bobo sa mga heneral upang pahupain ang tunggalian at bitak sa loob ng AFP na nagpaplanong maglunsad ng kudeta laban sa kanya.

Sa halip na mas paghandaan at pagtuonan ng pansin ang pagtatanggol sa bansa laban sa umiigting na armadong komprontasyon ng US at China, ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan at NPA pa rin ang pokus ng AFP.

Nananatiling matatag ang mga yunit ng BHB sa Cagayan Valley sa kabila ng mga tinamong pinsala at mga pag-atras sa nakaraang mga taon. Malaki ang naging papel ng kilusang pagwawasto ng PKP upang muling pag-alabin ng rebolusyonaryong diwa at optimismo ng mga kadre at kasapi ng Partido at mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma ng BHB at upang matalinong halawan ng aral ang mga pagkakamali at determinadong biguin ang estratehikong opensiba ng kaaway.

Tinatahak ngayon ng buong rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa rehiyon ang daan para sa pagpapanibagong lakas at muling pagsulong. Nananatiling mataba ang lupa para sa pagkalat ng apoy ng digmang bayan sa Lambak ng Cagayan. Sa pagsahol ng pagdarahop ng mga magsasaka at iba pang demokratikong sektor, nananatiling pangunahing sandata ng mamamayan ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan.

Lipos ang determinasyon ng BHB-Cagayan Valley na maglunsad ng mga aksyong militar batay sa kakayahan at mga pakikibakang masang anti-imperyalista, antipyudal, at antipasistang paglaban lalo na ngayong isa ang rehiyon sa mga pangunahing tatamaan ng El Niño matapos ang magkakasunod na paghagupit ng bagyo at malawakang pagbaha hanggang nitong Disyembre.

Sa mga kanayunan at liblib na lugar, ang BHB at mga ganap na samahang masa bilang binhi ng demokratikong gubyernong bayan pa rin ang masasaligan ng masa dahil magpahanggang ngayon, sa radyo lang naririnig ng mga magsasaka at pambansang minorya ang “kaunlaran” o “ayuda” o “tulong ng rehimeng Marcos.”

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/patuloy-na-magpupunyagi-ang-bhb-cagayan-valley/

CPP/NPA=Masbate: Panata ng pagwawasto mula sa NPA Masbate: Ibayong pagsulong ng armadong pakikibaka para sa katarungan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 16, 2024): Panata ng pagwawasto mula sa NPA Masbate: Ibayong pagsulong ng armadong pakikibaka para sa katarungan (Vow of rectification from the NPA Masbate: Further advancement of the armed struggle for justice)

 


Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

January 16, 2024

Sa ilalim ng batas militar sa Masbate, ang biktima ang nagiging kriminal, at ang kriminal ang nagiging biktima. Sa resolusyon ng inutil na pamprubinsyang piskalya, lilitisin sa kasong frustrated murder ang mga biktimang sina Jamara Tumangan, Rowel Hagnaya, Alden Tumangan, Rico Cuyos at Senen Dollete na walang habas na pinagbababaril ng militar sa Barangay Balantay, bayan ng Dimasalang noong Hunyo 16, 2023. Matatandaang napaslang ang isa sa mga kasamahan nila Tumangan na si Rey Belan.

Pinalabas ang anim na magsasaka bilang mga kasapi ng NPA na nakaengkwentro ng militar upang bigyang katwiran ang pambabaluktot sa mga biktima. Nangangamba ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan na hindi lamang sina Belan, Tumangan at mga kasamahan ang makaranas nang ganitong paglapastangan kundi maging ang iba pang biktima at kanilang kaanak.

Marami sa mga kaanak ng mga pinatay ng militar ang pinagbantaang isusunod kung pipiliing magreklamo. Maraming mga biktima ang walang matakbuhan para makahingi ng tulong. Maraming mga biktima at kaanak nila ang napuwersang lisanin ang kanilang mga komunidad para takasan ang panggigipit ng militar.

Labis na nagdurusa at nasasaktan ang mga Pulang kumander at mandirigma ng Jose Rapsing Command – New People’s Army Masbate sa tuwing pinahihirapan at malahayop na inaabuso ng militar ang mamamayang Masbatenyo. Sa bawat magsasakang pinapatay, inaagawan ng lupa at pinagkakaitan ng karapatan at kinabuksan, lalong nagiging marubdob ang pagnanais ng NPA – Masbate na maabot ang masa at samahan sila sa pakikibaka para sa katarungan.

Bilang bahagi ng kilusang pagwawasto, buong pagpapakumbabang ipinapangako ng NPA – Masbate na gawin ang lahat ng pagpupursige upang isulong ang armadong paglaban at ipagtanggol ang mga Masbatenyo at kamtin ang hustisya para sa lahat ng biktima ng pang-aapi at pagsasamantala ng bulok na estado.

Hahanap ng daan-daang paraan ang mga kasama para maabot ang mga masang hindi pa nito naaabot. Walang kapagurang tutulong ang mga kasama upang makilala ng mga Masbatenyo ang kanilang lakas at mabuo ang kanilang pagkakaisa at determinasyong kumilos. Buong giting na maglulunsad ang Hukbo ng mga taktikal na opensiba upang panagutin at parusahan ang mga berdugo at teroristang kriminal na AFP-PNP-CAFGU at kanilang mga ahente hanggang sa tuluyang mawakasan ang paghaharing militar sa prubinsya.

Isa lang ang hinihingi ng NPA-Masbate sa mamamayang Masbatenyo: na buksan ang kanilang mga pintuan at puso para sa pagdating ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas at ng NPA sa kanilang mga tahanan, komunidad at buhay. Dala-dala ng Partido at ng Hukbo ang rebolusyonaryong pag-asa. Huwag nating hayaang ipagkait sa sarili ang rebolusyon bilang solusyon sa ating mga problema dahil sa takot at pagkakanya-kanya.

Handang harapin ng kasama ang hirap at sakripisyo maipaunawa lamang sa mga Masbatenyo na walang ibang solusyon para matuldukan ang dinaranas na paghihirap at pagdurusa kundi ang lumahok sa digmang bayan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/panata-ng-pagwawasto-mula-sa-npa-masbate-ibayong-pagsulong-ng-armadong-pakikibaka-para-sa-katarungan/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Mangunguma sa La Castellana, gintiro sa mga katapo sang 62nd IB

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 15, 2024): Mangunguma sa La Castellana, gintiro sa mga katapo sang 62nd IB (Farmer in La Castellana, shot by members of the 62nd IB)

JB Regalado

Spokesperson

NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)

Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)

New People's Army

January 15, 2024

Mabaskog nga ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) ang asud-asod nga pagpangharas sang mga katapo sa 62nd IB sa mga sibilyan kag mangunguma sa banwa sang La Castellana kag syudad sang Guihulngan kahapon nga adlaw, Enero 14.

Pasado alas 4:00 sang hapon kagahapon, Enero 14, desperado nga gintiro sang tatlo ka armado kag nakasibilyan nga mga tawo si Cerilo Bagnoran Jr. Nagamaneho sang iya motorsiklo si Bagnoran halin sa iya trabaho padulong sa ila puluy-an sang ginpara kag gilayon ginpa-arakan luthang sang nasambit nga tatlo ka tawo sa Crossing Cordova, Barangay Manghanoy, La Castellana, Negros Occidental. Nakaluwas ang biktima, apang nagtuga sang kakugmat sa pamilya Bagnoran.

Sa inisyal nga pagpangusisa sang LPC-NPA sa mga residente, mga katapo sang 62nd IB Charlie Company ang tuyo nga magpatay kay Bagnoran.

Kilala sa ila lugar si Bagnoran Jr nga isa ka mamumugon sa kampo. Antes pa man sini nga insidente, sadtong Enero 7, may duha na ka tawo nga nagpakilala nga mga katapo sang Philippine National Police (PNP) nga nagpangita sa iya sa lugar. Pagka-bwas, Enero 8, liwat man nga ginpangita si Bagnoran Jr sa 24 ka tropa sang 62nd IB nga naga-operasyon sa Sityo Mandayao-4, Barangay Kamandag, La Castellana.

Samtang, puguso nga ginransak sang 40 ka tropa sang berdugong 62nd IB ang puluy-an sang pamilya Carreon sa Sityo Bonbon, Barangay Hinakpan, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, alas 11:30 sang aga kagahapon, Enero 14. Ginpang-ukay sang pasistang tropa ang mga kagamitan sang pamilya Carreon kag ginpangita si Bimbo Carreon, tagbalay kag mangunguma. Ginpahug ang mga tawo sa sulod sang balay lakip na ang mga gagmay nga kabataan sang nasambit nga pamilya.

Ang pagpanglagas kag paghingabot sang 62nd IB sa mga inosenteng sibilyan sa pagpanguna ni William Pesase Jr, 62nd IB Commanding Officer, ang klaro nga paglapas sang tawhanon nga kinamatarung, sa Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) kag rules of war.

Ini ang isa ka mahigko nga taktika sang reaksyonaryong gyera nga ginalunsar sang AFP indi pa batok sa NPA kundi sa mga mangunguma nga ginapasibangdan nga mga supporter sang NPA. Bangud sang pasulit-sulit nga pagtalana sang dedlayn, ini man ang desperado nga tikang sang berdugong tropa sa pagwasak sang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan ilabe na ang NPA sa Central Negros.

Ihatag ang nagakaigo nga hustisya sa mga biktima sang 62nd IB! Pabayaron sang dako ang berdugo kag pasistang 62nd IB paagi sa lapnagon kag madinalag-on nga taktikal nga opensiba sang Bag-ong Hangaway sang Banwa!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/mangunguma-sa-la-castellana-gintiro-sa-mga-katapo-sang-62nd-ib/

CPP/NPA-Masbate: Operasyong haras sa Baleno, pagsalubong sa panibagong taon ng mas determinadong rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka ng masang Masbatenyo!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jan 14, 2024): Operasyong haras sa Baleno, pagsalubong sa panibagong taon ng mas determinadong rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka ng masang Masbatenyo! (Operation haras in Baleno, welcoming the new year of the more determined revolutionary struggle of the Masbatenyo masses!

 


Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

January 14, 2024

Salamat sa mahigpit na suporta ng mamamayang Masbatenyo, matagumpay na hinaras ng isang yunit ng Jose Rapsing Command-Bagong Hukbong Bayan Masbate ang nag-ooperasyong tropa ng 96th sa Sityo Lantawan, Barangay Gangao, bayan ng Baleno, noong Enero 13, 2024. Matapos ang ambus, kagyat na itinago ng mga militar ang kanilang kaswalti upang pagtakpan ang kahihiyan.

Ang naturang haras ay bahagi ng walang maliw na pagsisikap ng BHB-Masbate na kamtin ang hustisya para sa mga biktima ng abusong militar at ipagtanggol ang mamamayan sa nagpapatuloy na paghaharing militar sa prubinsya. Matatandaang bago matapos ang taong 2023, pinatay ng militar ang magsasakang si Pedro Cuevas sa Barangay Maanahao, bayan ng Palanas. Si Cuevas ang ika-24 biktima ng pampulitikang pamamaslang sa Masbate sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr.

Babala rin ang naturang aksyong gerilya sa AFP at PNP na itigil na ang nagpapatuloy na militarisasyon sa mga eskwelahan. Irineklamo ng ilang mga kaibigan sa Department of Education-Masbate ang patuloy na pagpasok ng mga militar sa mga eskwelahan para magrekrut sa Army at sapilitang kuhaan ng impormasyon ang mga estudyanteng batid nilang naninirahan sa mga sonang gerilya. Ilang mga estudyante na ang hindi makapasok sa eskwela dulot ng takot sa presensya ng militar.

Walang katotohanan ang palabas ng militar na may nadamay na sibilyan sa naturang haras. Malayo sa mga komunidad ang pangyayari. Malamang na gawa-gawa lamang ng militar ang naturang pekeng impormasyon para bahiran ng putik ang matagumpay na aksyon at pagtakpan ang mga pinsalang tinamo ng kanilang tropa.

Maraming hamon ang kailangang nagkakaisang harapin ng mga Masbatenyo at ng kanilang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa pagpasok ng bagong taon. Nariyan ang ekspansyon ng mapaminsalang Filminera-Masbate Gold Project. Nariyan ang lalong nag-uulol na desperasyon ni Gov. Antonio T. Kho na makapanatili sa kapangyarihan na nangangahulugan ng mas malawakan pang pangangamkam ng lupa at mas matindi pang atakeng militar.

Determinado ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa Masbate na isulong ang digmang bayan para sa tunay na kalayaan at pangmatagalang kapayapaan. Kaugnay nito, ipinapahayag ng Jose Rapsing Command-Bagong Hukbong Bayan ang pagsuporta sa pagpapatuloy ng usapang pangkapayapaan sa balangkas ng naunang mga kasunduan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/operasyong-haras-sa-baleno-pagsalubong-sa-panibagong-taon-ng-mas-determinadong-rebolusyonaryong-pakikibaka-ng-masang-masbatenyo/