Sunday, February 18, 2024

12th Inf Bn: 17 Former Insurgents Receive Assistance from the Province of Capiz

Posted to the Philippine Army 12th Infantry Battalion Facebook Page (Feb 13, 2024): 17 Former Insurgents Receive Assistance from the Province of Capiz

Calinog, Iloilo - On February 13, 2024, the Provincial Government of Capiz, led by Hon. Fredenil Castro, Governor of Capiz, handed over E-CLIP Assistance to individuals who have recently surrendered with the 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB), at the Governor’s Office in Roxas City. In attendance during the distribution were Ms. Cherryl V Tacda, CESO V PD DILG, Ms. Joerine Tan SWO IV, ECLIP Focal person, and other government officials.

A sum of P505,000.00 was distributed to our beloved Capiznon who have chosen to rejoin the lawful path. Among them, five former insurgents received P65,000 each for livelihood assistance, while an additional P15,000 each was granted to 12 former supporters as immediate financial aid.

Governor Castro, in his message, expressed gratitude to those who decided to contribute to the common goal of progress and well-being for their community. He acknowledged the challenges they faced and emphasized the government's unwavering support for their journey towards a law-abiding and productive life.

Governor Castro stated, “Naga pasalamat ako nga ari kamo diri nga naga buylog sa isa ka balatyagon nga para sa aton banwa kag balatyagon para sa aton pumuloyo. Waay gid ina pakadtuan ang upod-upod niyo sa NPA. Ari ang gobyerno nga naga ulikid sa inyo kag naga batyag para sa inyo.”

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) urges remaining CPP-NPA members to consider returning to the legal fold. In our pursuit of peace and development, our paramount concern remains the welfare of the people in Panay, emphasizing a collective effort towards lasting stability and prosperity.

Philippine Army
Philippine Army Spearhead Troopers
๐Ÿฏ๐Ÿฌ๐Ÿญ๐—ฆ๐—ง ๐—œ๐—ก๐—™๐—”๐—ก๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—ฌ "๐—•๐—”๐—ฌ๐—”๐—ก๐—œ๐—›๐—”๐—ก" ๐—•๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—š๐—”๐——๐—˜
Capiz Police Provincial Office
DILG Region 6 Western Visayas
#๐—ฆ๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ด๐—จ๐—ป๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฑ๐—ฅ๐—ฒ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฎ๐—ฏ๐—น๐—ฒ
#๐—ฆ๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ด๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—”๐—ฟ๐—บ๐˜†๐—ฆ๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ด๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—–๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐˜๐—ฟ๐˜†
#๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐—ฃ๐—ฒ๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฒ๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜‚๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐—Ÿ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ
#๐—”๐—™๐—ฃ๐˜†๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—จ๐—ฆ๐—ง
#๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฟ๐—ฃ๐—ต๐—ถ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐—”๐—ฟ๐—บ๐˜†
#๐—ฃ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ฆ๐—ฎ๐—•๐—ฎ๐˜†๐—ฎ๐—ป
#๐—Ÿ๐—ผ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ๐—ฏ๐˜†๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐—ฃ๐—ฒ๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฒ
#๐—ง๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐˜€๐˜๐˜€๐—ช๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜€๐˜๐—ก๐—ถ๐—ด๐—ต๐˜๐—บ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ











https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=728309519479901&id=100069025795789&mibextid=oFDknk

https://www.facebook.com/12LickEmBN

Opapru gives livelihood program to 2 farmers’ groups

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Feb 16, 2024): Opapru gives livelihood program to 2 farmers’ groups




ZAMBOANGA. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (Opapru) gives P2.4 million worth of livelihood projects to two farmers’ associations in Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte. A photo handout shows Rene Glenn Paje, Opapru regional adviser of peace and security, talking about the importance of livelihood aid in a program attended by the recipients in Tinuyop village, Leon B. Postigo on Tuesday, February 13. (SunStar Zamboanga)

TWO farmers associations in the municipality of Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte have received a total of P2.4 million worth of livelihood projects from the National Government.

The 97th Infantry Battalion (IB) said Friday, February 16, that the recipients of the livelihood projects are the farmers associations of Midatag headed by its village chief, Bon James Templo, and of Tinuyop led by Roel Aquino.


Each of the associations received P1.2 million worth of agricultural products for rice production during the launching of the project on Tuesday, February 13.

The 97IB said the initiative was made possible through the Community Peace Development Fund of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (Opapru).

Rene Glenn Paje, Opapru regional adviser of peace and security, said the livelihood program aims to provide sustainable opportunities for the farmers, contributing to their economic empowerment and overall development.

“The launching of the livelihood assistance project aims to provide livelihood support to conflict-affected municipalities, to improve the living standards of our fellow citizens in poverty,” Paje said.

“The Office of Opapru will continue to strive to gather additional funding and support for projects to address the needs of our community,” Paje added.

He said the program is just one of the government's projects as part of Executive Order No. 70 or the Whole of a Nation Approach in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (Elcac) to put an end to the deception of the terrorist New People's Army in our country.

The 97IB participated in the launching of a livelihood assistance program for the farmers’ association of Midatag and Tinuyop, Leon B Postigo, which is within the area of operations of the battalion.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/opapru-gives-livelihood-program-to-2-farmers-groups

10,000 participants expected to attend UBJP General Assembly

Posted to Luwaran (Feb 16, 2024): 10,000 participants expected to attend UBJP General Assembly (By Al Iskandar)



Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Del Norte— About 10,000 participants are expected to attend United Bangsamoro Justice Party’s (UBJP) General Assembly, Saturday, February 17.
 
Nas D. Dunding, chief of the UBJP Secretariat, said on Thursday that the big event is to be held at the sports grounds of the Cotabato State University, in Cotabato City to be graced by no other than MILF Committee Chairman and head of the of the first regional political party of BARMM.

On the agenda of the event are the election of UBJP’s new set of officers and dialogues on how members and party supporters can cooperate in sustaining the gains of the peace deal with the national government.

“Security preparations for this big event are now in place as requested by organizers. Units of the Police Regional Office-

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, particularly the Cotabato City Police Office, shall secure the venue of the gathering,” regional police director, Brig. Gen. Allan C. Nobleza, said as quoted by Business World.

[Note: Luwaran is the online publication of the Committee on Information of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Central Committee. The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) is the political party that represents Moro Islamic Liberation Front interests.]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2664/10-000-participants-expected-to-attend-ubjp-general-assembly

Iqbal: “Individual determination, a key to UBJP’s success”

Posted to Luwaran (Feb 17, 2024): Iqbal: “Individual determination, a key to UBJP’s success” (By Taher Solaiman)




COTABATO CITY – In acknowledging the hardships suffered by some participants before they could attend the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) General Assembly in Cotabato City on February 17, MP Mohagher Iqbal said, “Thank you very much. Your presence gives strength to the leadership of the Party. And that individual determination is the key to our success.”

Iqbal was elected as UBJP Executive Vice President and, concurrently, the Vice President for Central Mindanao which comprises Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, and the BARMM’s Special Geographic Area (SGA).

Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim retained his post as the President of the Party.

Some 27,000 people attended the assembly that was held in the parade ground of the Cotabato State University (CSU).

The participants came from the cities of Cotabato, Marawi, and Lamitan; the provinces of Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan, the SGA.

The agenda of the assembly included the election of UBJP’s new set of officers and dialogues on how members and party supporters can cooperate in sustaining the gains of the peace process (Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Philippine government.

[Note: Luwaran is the online publication of the Committee on Information of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Central Committee. The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) is the political party that represents Moro Islamic Liberation Front interests.]

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2663/iqbal_____individual_determination__a_key_to_ubjp___s_success___

P173-M infra projects in Cotabato barangays up

From the Philippine Star (Feb 18, 2024): P173-M infra projects in Cotabato barangays up (By John Unson)



The provincial government of Cotabato has earmarked P173 million for its 24 new infrastructure projects in isolated barangays, where residents rely mainly on farming as means of livelihood.
Philstar.com / John Unson


COTABATO CITY, Philippines — The Cotabato provincial government has enlisted the support of the local communities in monitoring 24 new infrastructure projects, costing P173 million, in different barangays intended to boost the investment potentials of the province.

Radio reports here on Sunday stated that the projects include the construction of anti-flood concrete box culverts, overflow river bridges, concreting of farm-to-market roads, two-storey multi-purpose buildings and barangay halls in remote areas in the 17 towns in Cotabato, a component province of Region 12.


The projects are bankrolled with allocations from the Economic Development Fund and the 2024 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund of the office of Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliรฑo Mendoza, who is presiding chairperson of the multi-sector, inter-agency Regional Development Council 12.

Some of the projects shall benefit residents of the 63 Bangsamoro barangays in different towns in Cotabato, where there are members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front now thriving peacefully as farmers, earning extra income from fishing in the vast Liguasan Delta.

“We shall guard the projects in some Cotabato municipalities that are in areas covered by our units,” Major Gen. Alex Rillera, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said on Sunday.

Rillera said the new infrastructure projects of the Cotabato provincial government, particularly the concreting of barangay roads, will improve the connectivity to municipal trading centers of former Moro rebels in fronts that have forged peace pacts with Malacaรฑang and erstwhile members of the outlawed Dawlah Islamiya and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters who have returned to the fold of law.

Up to 298 members of the Dawlah Islamiya and the BIFF in different towns in Cotabato alone had surrendered in batches in 2023, reintegrated into the local communities through the efforts of Mendoza’s office, the mayors in the province, units of 6th ID and the Police Regional Office-12 under Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg.

https://qa.philstar.com/nation/2024/02/18/2334303/p173-m-infra-projects-cotabato-barangays-up

CPP/Ang Bayan News & Analysis: Soldier disguised as a local government employee surveils mass leaders in Rizal

Ang Bayan News & Analysis propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 15, 2024): Soldier disguised as a local government employee surveils mass leaders in Rizal
 

This article is available in Pilipino



February 15, 2024

Soldier Ssg. Marvin Lagua of the 2nd ID, went from house to house in Barangay San Isidro, Antipolo City, Rizal since February 5 and has been inquiring about mass leaders of the progressive movement in Rizal. According to the report by Karapatan-Rizal, Lagua was in plainclothes and pretended to be Jerwin Lencinas, an employee of Antipolo City Hall to carry out the surveillance. The soldier allegedly gathered mass leaders’ personal information and cell phone numbers from neighbors.

Among those Lagua surveilled were members and leaders of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan)-Rizal, Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay)-Rizal, and Anakpawis Partylist Rizal. The soldier even showed photos to the residents to identify his targets. The soldier specifically wanted to track down Tatay Henry, the provincial coordinator of Anakpawis Partylist-Rizal. He insised that he only wanted to “talk” to the organizer to encourage him to “clear his name.”

According to the Karapatan-Rizal statement, he also asked neighbors about Tatay Henry’s whereabouts. At the same time, the neighbors noticed unknown masked men loitering and surveilling the organizer’s residence. Apart from this, it was also reported that the soldiers spied on Tatay Henry’s friends and other associates who visited him. Tatay Henry has previously experienced a similar spying scheme last November 29, 2023.

“The tactics of the AFP’s 2nd ID and the PNP are shameful and degrading, as they seem to be competing among themselves who can coerce their targets and fake their surrender,” according to Karapatan-Rizal. Apart from this, the military’s use of the local government’s name and its employees for surveillance is a usurpation of a civilian authority. The use of this tactic has been intensified by the National Task Force-Elcac.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/soldier-disguised-as-a-local-government-employee-surveils-mass-leaders-in-rizal/

CPP/Ang Bayan News & Analysis: Activists awarded writs of amparo and habeas data, thank their supporters

Ang Bayan News & Analysis propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 16, 2024): Activists awarded writs of amparo and habeas data, thank their supporters
 

This article is available in Pilipino



February 16, 2024

Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano thanked everyone who supported them and actively campaigned for the Supreme Court to grant them the writs of amparo and habeas data. “This is a big step forward in fulfilling the request for protection and providing information being kept by the government about us,” the two activists said in their joint statement.

Castro and Tamano were abducted on September 2, 2023 and secretly detained for two weeks. In the press conference where the AFP and NTF-Elcac were supposed to present them as “surrendered” Red fighters, they bravely exposed the abduction, torture and threats against them. Although the Department of Justice dismissed the perjury case filed against them by the 70th IB, the department recommended that they be charged with slandering the AFP.

“It is fitting that the petition made progress, because threats to our lives continued during the four months of waiting,” according to them. The surveillance and clear intimidation by state agents hindered their advocacies. Both Tamano and Castro are activists fighting destructive reclamation projects.

In addition to recognizing the ongoing threat to their lives, the court also recognized their case as one of enforced disappearance by agents of the state.

“(This) counters the Department of Justice’s recommendation to file case of Perjury and Grave Oral Defamation. Just as any branch of government should do, the Supreme Court paid attention and heard the active outcry of various groups and individuals about what really happened, contrary to the lies spread by NTF-ELCAC, AFP, and other agencies,” they said.

The court awarded a temporary “protection order”, and the petition for a Permanent Protection Order and Production Order is pending before the Court of Appeals.

“Our case is just a reflection of many other environmental defenders and citizens who are being attacked for fighting for human rights and the environment,” they said. They called for an end to all forms of attack against the people and for the demands for livelihood and human rights be heeded.

Pursuant to the order, all those named in the petition, and all entities it may mobilize or command, are prohibited from approaching the petitioners within one kilometer of their homes, schools, work or any current location, as well as their immediate families.

Meanwhile, in accordance with the granted writ of habeas data, Castro and Tamano have the right to access and have personal data collected by the state in relation to them be erased to protect their security and right to privacy.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/activists-awarded-writs-of-amparo-and-habeas-data-thank-their-supporters/

CPP/Ang Bayan News & Analysis: Military surveillance and intimidation on two organizers in Bicol, condemned

Ang Bayan News & Analysis propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 17, 2024): Military surveillance and intimidation on two organizers in Bicol, condemned
 

This article is available in Pilipino


February 17, 2024

The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Bicol (KMB) and Defend Bicol Stop the Attacks Network (Defend Bicol) condemned soldiers of the 9th ID for surveillance and harassment of a development worker and a farmer organizer in the region.

The soldiers searched and gathered information in the communities in the third district of Albay where Administrative Officer Maggie Seva and staff member Fidel Mirando of Farmer’s Assistance for Resource Management, Education and Rehabilitation Incorporated (FARMER Inc) were. The relatives of the two were subjected to illegal interrogation.

According to FARMER Inc, from February 1 to February 15, the family of Seva and Mirando experienced intensified harassment and intimidation from elements of the 9th ID.

On February 15, two men went to Seva’s brother’s house in Barangay Zone 1, Libon, Albay. The two introduced themselves as Sgt. Jason Gevero from Camp Simeon Ola, Legazpi City and Angel Mendosa who identified himself as “Lakay” from Paniqui, Tarlac. Seva’s brother was interrogated.

On February 8, two men went to the house of Mirando’s brother in Barangay Agos, Polangui, Albay. A man who went to the house even pretended to be Seva’s neighbor. According to relatives, the men were stocky and tall. The men even took pictures of their house and the facing road.

Karapatan-Bicol recorded cases of threats, harassment and intimidation by the military during its “visits” to the FARMER Inc office in Sityo Bololo Barangay Zone 5 in Libon, Albay, and to the homes of Seva and Mirando since last year.

Seva and Mirando both led campaigns for land rights, food and justice for farmers. Farmers also joined FARMERS Inc in the distribution of seeds and other farm inputs to support their farming. Mirando is an organizer of the Samahan at Unyon ng mga Mangagawang Bukid sa Kabikolan (SUMABAK).

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/military-surveillance-and-intimidation-on-two-organizers-in-bicol-condemned/

CPP/NDF-PKM-Southern Tagalog: Lamat ng Uniteam, tuluyan nang sumambulat

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 18, 2024): Lamat ng Uniteam, tuluyan nang sumambulat (Uniteam split, completely bursting apart)
 


Eduardo Labrador
Spokesperson
Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid-Southern Tagalog
NDF-Southern Tagalog | National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 18, 2024

Ang ipinangalandakang ‘UniTeam’ sa pagitan ng mga reaksyunaryong partido, Hugpong ng Pagbabago, Lakas-CMD, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas at Nacionalista Party at iba pa ay di na napigilan ang sariling pagsambulat. Tulak ito ng makasariling interes at ambisyon ng mga paksyon sa loob ng dating UniTeam na parehas mga swapang, pasista at ilehitimo.

Ang pagbabangayan ng naghaharing paksyong Marcos-Duterte ay salaminan ng bulok at di maampat na krisis ng sistemang malakolonyal at malapyudal. Banggaan ito ng mga ganid sa yaman at ambisyong pulitikal para sa kanilang makitid at makauring interes, at ng sinusuportahan nilang mga among imperyalistang US at Tsina na nagtutunggali para pagharian ang Asya-Pasipiko.

Ang bangayan ng mga Marcos at Duterte kaugnay sa Chacha, pagbisita ng ICC para mag-imbistiga sa gera sa droga, atakeng personal at kulapulan ng baho sa isa’t isa ay posible na humantong sa mas marahas na tungalian sa hinaharap. Ang nilulutong kudeta ng paksyong Arroyo-Duterte ay tinapatan naman ng pagmamadali sa pag-amyenda ng burges at reaksyonaryong konstitusyon. Di na maitago ang garapalang maniobrahan para isulong ang interes sa politika, ekonomiya sa kabila ng paghihirap ng masang magsasaka at mamamayan.

Habang nagpapakitang tao, ipokrito sa isa’t-isa, may ’tarakan ng punyal nang talikuran’ ang tambalang Marcos-Duterte sa isa’t isa, at palabas na ‘di apektado at business as usual’, ang magsasaka at mamamayan naman ang nagdurusa. Sa gitna ng ganitong kalagayan, dapat maghanda ang bayan sa higit pang pagsahol ng pasistang panunupil. Kaakibat nito, dapat kumilos at makibaka ang mamamayan para sa kanilang interes sa lupa, buhay at kabuhayan. Dapat nilang ipaglaban at ipatanggol ang kanilang mga karapatang tao sa harap ng paninibasib ng estado. Dapat ilantad at labanan ang patuloy at papaigting na panghihimasok ng imperyalismong US sa pulitika, ekonomya at militar ng bansa.

Dapat magkaisa ang masang magsasaka para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa at labanan ang pang-aagaw at pagpapalit-gamit ng lupa. Dapat ding manawagan ang mga magbubukid sa pagpapababa ng upa sa lupa, pagpapataas ng sahod ng manggagawang bukid, pagpawi sa usura at pagpapataas ng farmgate price ng kanilang mga produkto. Nanawagan din kami sa mga maliit na negosyante sa agrikultura na labis ng apektado ng pagbaha ng imported na bigas, asukal, sibuyas, karne ng manok, baboy at isda na makiisa sa mga panawagan para sa pambansang industriyalisasyon, na nakabatay sa tunay na reporma sa lupa.

Manalig kayo, kapwa ko magsasaka na ang armadong pakikibaka ang tanging landas para sa pambansang paglaya sa kuko at pagkakadaklot ng imperyalismo, katutubong pyudalismo at burukrata kapitalismo. Ang inyong BHB ay hukbong magsasaka, kaya hinahamon ko ang kapwa ko magsasaka, tumangan na ng armas, sumapi sa BHB, isulong at akapin ang matagalang digmang bayan, at ihasik, payabungin at palawakin natin ang mga di magagaping pulang kapangyarihan sa kanayunan, hanggang sa ganap na makamit ang pambansang kalayaan at demokrasya.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/lamat-ng-uniteam-tuluyan-nang-sumambulat/

CPP/NPA-Negros Island ROC: Philippine Army in Negros Island to safeguard ruling class, imperialist interests

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 16, 2024): Philippine Army in Negros Island to safeguard ruling class, imperialist interests
 


Maoche Legislador
Spokesperson
Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)
New People's Army

February 16, 2024

It is no surprise that reactionary state troops will not be pulled-out from Negros Island after the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division pretentiously claimed guerrilla fronts on Negros were already dismantled. It is also natural for Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson to parrot such talk as he represents the exploiters and oppressors of Negros Island whom the mercenary 3rd ID serves.

The Apolinario Gatmaitan Command-New People’s Army Negros Island Regional Operations Command (AGC-NPA) strongly belies the 3rd ID’s claim that it has “dismantled” even one guerrilla front on the island. Up to now, all five guerrilla fronts under the AGC-NPA continue to perform as the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) primary weapon in waging protracted people’s war through extensive and intensive guerrilla warfare on the basis of an ever widening and deepening mass base in their respective areas of responsibility.

The sustained presence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on the island bares its hogwash ‘dismantled’ declaration out in the open and exposes the anti-insurgency campaign as a fascist means to a neoliberal end. To present a facade of a dismantled front, the AFP, Philippine National Police (PNP) and National Task Force (NTF)-Elcac carry out a series of onslaught through military offensives and psywar and intelligence operations on peasant communities, conceal countless human rights violations through declaring fake encounters and fake surrenders, and promote corruption-ridden and band-aid government programs like the Barangay Development Program.

Relentless focused military operations in Negros continue to result in numerous human rights violations, most recently the ransack of a peasant home by the 15th IB and 47th IB in Cauayan, Negros Occidental. There are about 600 incidents of human rights violations perpetrated by reactionary state forces on Negros Island under the US-Marcos II regime as monitored by the National Democratic Front (NDF)-Negros, involving over 39,000 victims.

After ‘dismantled’ declarations and the recommendation of placing Negros Island under a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS), reactionary propaganda machineries bombard the media with promises of ‘development’ and ‘progress.’ The scheme is obvious—suppress dissent in resource-rich communities to pave the way for the interests of multinational corporations and big comprador-landlords. The AFP/PNP/NTF-Elcac are mere tools and attack dogs of the ruling class and their imperialist master to railroad neoliberal projects such as destructive mining and quarrying from northern to southern Negros, a commercial plantation in Candoni town, expansive land reclamation projects to transform Bacolod City and Dumaguete City into “super” and “smart” cities, environmentally unfriendly bulk water projects or mega dams in north and south central Negros, and other forms of economic attacks against the people.

In truth, reactionary state forces will remain on the island to safeguard the interests of big compradors and landlords and bureaucrat capitalists like Gov. Lacson in connivance with imperialists. The reactionary state requires its armed machinery to paint the picture of security for the ruling class, so it can continue to exploit and oppress the Negrosanon masses.

While fascism and neoliberalism persist, Negrosanons find justness in armed resistance. In this semi-colonial and semi-feudal society, the oppressed and exploited have reasons everyday to support and join the revolutionary movement. So long as the rule of the few lingers, the NPA and the people’s democratic revolution cannot be dismantled.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/philippine-army-in-negros-island-to-safeguard-ruling-class-imperialist-interests/

CPP/NPA-Rizal: Isiwalat ang katotohanan ng terorismo ng 80th IBPA sa Rizal!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 15, 2024): Isiwalat ang katotohanan ng terorismo ng 80th IBPA sa Rizal! (Reveal the truth of the terrorism of the 80th IBPA in Rizal!)
 


Macario 'Ka Karyo' Liwanag
Spokesperson
NPA-Rizal (Narciso Antazo Aramil Command)
Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)
New People's Army

February 15, 2024

Mariing kinukundena ng NAAC-NPA-Rizal ang mga kasinungalingan ng 80th IBPA. Pilit pa rin nitong pinagtatakpan ang katotohanan sa naganap na labanan sa Sityo Balagbag, Barangay San Isidro, Rodriguez noong Enero 31, 2024, pati ang mga krimen nila sa mamamayang Rizaleรฑo.

Sa pinakahuling pahayag ng pasistang tropang pinamumunuan ni Lt. Col. Mark Anthony U. Ruby, pilit na itinanggi at tinawag pang kathang-isip ang pagkakasawi ng kanilang kasundaluhan sa naganap na labanan. Nakita mismo ng mga Pulang Mandirigma ang tinamaan at hindi na bumangong katawan ng kanilang kasama at mismong mga sibilyan ang nakakita na may mga inilabas na bangkay ng mga sundalo matapos ang labanan.

Walang ni katiting na respeto man lamang ang pamunuan ng 80th IBPA sa kanyang kasundaluhan at sa mga pamilya ng mga ito para ilitaw ang mga pangalan ng mga nasawi sa kanilang hanay. Mas pipiliin nito na pangalagaan at linisin ang nabubulok nitong reputasyon kaysa ipauna ang kapakanan ng kanyang mga sundalo.

Pambabaluktot din sa katotohanan ang binubuladas ng 80th IBPA hinggil sa pagsasara ng ilang mga resort matapos ang labanan dahil diumano sa takot at pangamaba sa mga NPA. Subalit sa katunayan ay sila mismo ang nagpasara ng ilang mga resort. Dagdag pa may rekord na ang mga berdugo noong nakaraang taon na pagbawalan ang lahat ng mga turista na umahon sa Balagbag at ipasara ang mga resort.

Makapal ang mukha ng 80th IBPA na itanggi ang mga karumal-dumal at walang-tigil nilang krimen sa mamamayang Rizaleรฑo. Sa unang hati pa lamang ng 2023 ay sunod-sunod na tahasang karahasan at akto ng terorismo ang ginawa nito sa Rizal.

Matapos ang labanan noong Abril 1, 2023 sa Sityo Kislatan, Barangay Mascap, Rodriguez, Rizal, kumalat ang balitang nagbanta ng pambobomba ang nasabing yunit sa ilang mga barangay ng Rizal. Ang totoo’y hindi ito nanatiling banta, sadyang pinasabugan nito ng mortar ang bahagi ng Payaran habang pinagbabaril naman ang isang lalaking residente ng sityo na nagsusuga lamang ng kaniyang kalabaw.

Dahil din sa pagmomortar na ito, inatake sa puso hanggang mamatay ang isang edad 70 na babae dahil sa takot nang sumabog ang mortar ng 80th IBPA. May matinding trauma ito mula sa martial law na nanumbalik sa kanyang alaala dahil sa nasaksihan niyang pambobomba. Ang ilan naman ay inaabot na ang mapraning sa lahat ng pagpapasabog na kanilang naririnig dahil sa presensya ng militar.

Pinagbantaan din ang isang kapamilya ng diumanong NPA na kapag hindi sinabi kung nasaan ang mga NPA ay dadalhan sila ng warrant of arrest. Marami sa Sityo Malasya at Uyungan ng Barangay Puray, Rodriguez ay hindi na umuuwi sa kanilang mga tahanan dahil sa takot sa mga militar at hindi sila tinatantanan sa pagtatanong at panghaharas. Iilan na lamang ang mga tao roon at napilitan silang lumipat sa Sityo Amusin na malapit sa kampo para hindi na sila puntahan lagi ng mga militar kahit pa nasa Malasya ang kanilang mga taniman.

Matapos ang pambobomba, dumagsa ang militar sa mga barangay ng Mascap, Puray at San Rafael at pwersahang pinalikas ang 250 pamilya. Mahigpit ding kinontrol ang paggalaw ng mga residente, kung kaya’t naobliga silang patagong pumunta sa kanilang bukid para mag-ani ng kanilang tanim. Mistula silang magnanakaw sa sarili nilang taniman dahil sa paghihigpit ng militar.

Bukod pa rito, ginawa ng garison ng 80th IBPA ang paparaming mga sityo sa Rizal tulad ng Sityo San Josef, San Ysiro at Sityo Kaysacat sa Barangay San Jose sa Antipolo City; Sityo Kabuhuan at Sityo Ilas ng Barangay Puray; Sityo Dambana ng Barangay Mascap at Sityo Balagbag ng Barangay San Isidro sa Rodriguez. Halos 2 taong nanatili ang kaaangat lang na tropa sa bahayan sa Sityo San Josef. Habang halos 1 taon na ang nasa Sityo San Ysiro at Sityo Ilas.

Nakakabulahaw din sa mga residente ang ingay na dulot ng awayan ng mga sundalong nagiinuman sa gabi sa Barangay Mascap at Barangay Puray.

Ito ang malaon nang nagdudulot ng pangamba at takot sa hanay ng mamamayan, na maganap muli ang pagbabarilan ng mga ito tulad ng nangyari noong 2012 dahil sa pagkalango ng mga ito sa alak. Kung tutuusin ay labag sa Geneva Conventions at Protocol II ang kanilang pagkakampo malapit sa sibilyang populasyon.

Malinaw kung sino ang tunay na naghahasik ng terorismo sa Rizal. Naghuhugas-kamay lang ang 80th IBPA dahil desperado itong pagtakpan ang mga kasalanan nito sa mamamayan. Sa katunayan, hindi rin naman malalaman ng NPA ang mga kasong ito kung hindi galing sa pagdudulog ng masa ng kaapihang nararanasan nila sa kamay ng 80th IBPA. Anupaman ang sabihin ng pasistang tropang ito ay alam ng mamamayan ang totoong mga kaganapan sa kanilang mga baryo.

Dapat tuloy-tuloy na ilantad ang paghuhugas-kamay ng 80th IBPA. Dapat silang panagutin sa mahabang listahan ng mga krimen nila sa mga Rizaleรฑo. Nag-uumapaw ang dahilan para palayasin ng mamamayan ang pasistang 80th IBPA mula sa kanilang mga baryo.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/isiwalat-ang-katotohanan-ng-terorismo-ng-80th-ibpa-sa-rizal/

CPP/NPA-Northern Negros: Armas, narekober sa operasyon silot sang NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 15, 2024): Armas, narekober sa operasyon silot sang NPA (Arms, recovered in the NPA's punishment operation)
 


Cecil Estrella
Spokesperson
NPA-Northern Negros (Roselyn Pelle Command)
Negros Island Regional Operational Command (Apolinario Gatmaitan Command)
New People's Army

February 15, 2024

Isa ka riple sang .22 nga armas nga may 44 ka mga bala sini, isa ka .357 nga pistola kag mga bala sini, duha ka smartphone kag nagkalain-lain nga mga ID ang nakuha sang mga operatiba sang Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-Northern Negros Guerrilla Front sang New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) sa operasyon silot batok kay Allan Macasling sa Sitio Bangkirohan, Barangay Salamanca sa banwa sang Toboso, Negros Occidental sadtong Pebrero 13, 2024, mga alas otso sang aga.

Daku ang bulig sang pumuluyo sa pagpatuman sini nga operasyon sa eksteryor nga bahin sang larangan gerilya, nga lapit sa national hi-way, lapit baybay kag lapit sa sentro sang banwa.

Ang operasyon silot ang ginhimo sang NPA kontra kay Macasling sandig sa madugay na nga mga reklamo sang pumuluyo, ilabi na sa mga nangin biktima sang iya kapintas, nga nabaton sang NPA. Patong-patong ang reklamo kontra kay Macasling kaangot sa iya pagpang-agaw duta, pagpamahog gamit ang armas paagi sang pagpanaya kag/ukon pagpalupok sini, lakip ang iya pagkakontra-rebolusyon. Ang mga hinimoan ni Macasling sa iya mga kaingod nagtuga sang kakugmat sa pumuluyo kag nagbunga sang kabalaka para sa ila pagpuyo kag pagpangabuhi.

Ginapaathag nga wala sang anuman nga kaangtanan ang rebolusyonaryong buhis sa pagsilot kay Macasling.

Panugyan sang RJPC-NPA sa tanan nga may kaso kontra sa pumuluyo nga untaton na ang inyo malain nga mga hinimoan kag bag-uhon ang kontra-rebolusyon nga gawi. Magsurender man kamo sa pinakalapit nga yunit sang CPP, NPA ukon sa mga rebolusyonaryo nga organisasyon sang masa, dala ang inyo mga armas sa pagpangabusar, agud mahatagan kamo sang kahigayunan nga magbag-o.

Indi magduha-duha ang NPA sa paghatag sang nagakadapat nga hustisya sa mga biktima sang mga kontra-rebolusyon kag malain nga mga elemento. Ang rebolusyonaryo nga kahublagan naga-alagad sa pumuluyo kag nagapangapin sa ila pagpuyo kag pagpangabuhi sa tunga sang grabe nga kapigaduhon.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/armas-narekober-sa-operasyon-silot-sang-npa/

CPP/NPA-Rizal: MALAYA KA Program ng 80th IB, lumang istilo ng panlilinlang at panggigipit sa mamamayan, paglabag sa internasyunal na makataong batas!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 15, 2024): MALAYA KA Program ng 80th IB, lumang istilo ng panlilinlang at panggigipit sa mamamayan, paglabag sa internasyunal na makataong batas! (YOU ARE FREE//Program of the 80th IB, old style of deception and pressure on the people, violation of international humanitarian law!)
 


Macario 'Ka Karyo' Liwanag
Spokesperson
NPA-Rizal (Narciso Antazo Aramil Command)
Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)
New People's Army

February 15, 2024

Buong pagyayabang na ibinibida ng 80th IBPA ang kasinungalingan sa kanilang MALAYA KA Program, na diumano’y makabagong pamamaraan upang wakasan ang terorismo. Kaisa at katuwang diumano ang mga pamilya ng mga miyembro ng NAAC-NPA-Rizal sa pagpapasuko sa kanilang mga anak at kamag-anak sa pagdurog sa CPP-NPA-NDFP. Tusong iskema nila ang propagandang ito sa social media upang pagmukhaing kaisa nila ang mga pamilya ng mga pinaghihinalaang kasapi ng NPA at diumano’y labag sa kagustuhan ng mga ito ang pananatili ng kanilang mga kaanak sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Inilunsad ng 80th IBPA ang mga papulong sa Brgy. Puray, sa Rodriguez, Brgy. San Jose at Brgy. Calawis sa Antipolo City, at Brgy. Punta sa Jala-Jala sa ilalim ng programang MALAYA KA. Mga serye ng talakayan, pakikipagpulong at imbestigasyon sa mga pamilya ng mga pinaghihinalaang kasapi ng New People’s Army upang kumbinsihin at sa bandang huli ay obligahin na makipagtulungan ang mga ito sa pagpapasuko sa kanilang mga anak o kapamilya na diumano’y aktibo sa rebolusyonaryong kilusan.

Taliwas sa nais nilang palabasin na pakikipagkaisa at pakikipagtulungan ng mga pamilya, hindi boluntaryo at sa halip ay napipilitan lamang ang mga ito na dumalo sa mga papulong. Habang sinasamantala nito ang pagdalo ng mga kapamilya ng pinaghihinalaang NPA upang gamitin sa kanilang itim na propaganda. Ginagamit ang mga litrato ng mga diumanong kapamilya, upang likhain ang isang imahe ng pakikipagtulungan sa kanila.

Sa katunayan, pahayag ng ilang nakadalo, inip na inip na silang matapos ang bawat pulong na kanilang ipinatatawag. Nasusuklam din silang pakinggan ang alam nilang hinahabi na kasinungalingan at panlilinlang ng pasistang AFP-PNP at NTF-ELCAC, na pawang nilalagyan ng katumbas na pera ang buhay at dangal ng kanilang mga kamag-anak. Banggit pa ng ibang kapamilya, hirap na hirap na sila sa paulit-ulit na pagpapatawag sa kanila ng 80th IB na humantong na sa kanilang paglikas at paglipat ng tirahan para umiwas sa pambubuliglig ng mga militar.

Bukod sa papulong ay isinasailalim din ang mga pamilya ng NPA sa mahigpit na pagmamanman at mga imbestigasyon. Ang iba pa nga ay sinusundan sa kanilang mga pinupuntahan—sa kaingin, bukid, gulayan, at kahit sa mga bahay ng iba pang kakilala at kamag-anak. Nakakapang-insulto na napili pa nila ang katawagang MALAYA KA para sa kanilang programa na sa aktwal ay nagkakait sa mamamayan sa kanilang malayang pagkilos.

Malinaw na panlilinlang ang programang ito na sa tabing ng MALAYA KA at diumano’y para sa kapayapaan subalit ang totoo’y nagdudulot ito ng ligalig sa mamamayan at mga pinaghihinalaang kapamilya ng NPA. Malinaw na nagsisilbing psywar ang programang ito para sa kanilang imbing pakana na durugin ang CPP/NPA.

Malinaw din na ito ay paglabag sa internasyunal na makataong batas alinsunod sa prinsipyo nito ng pagtatangi/pag-iiba sa pagitan ng mga sibilyan at kombatant (distinction) na nagsasabing hindi dapat atakehin ang mga sibilyan at lahat ng kanilang pag-aari. Mayor na nilalaman ito ng Comprehensive Agreement for the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) na pinagkasunduan ng GRP at ng NDFP at nasa puso ng Geneva Conventions of 1949 at ang karugtong nitong Additional Protocols of 1977. Mabibigo ang MALAYA KA Program sa kanilang iskema, kung saan nagpapatuloy ang kahirapan, karahasan , panlilinlang at terror sa mamamayan. Kailanman, ay hindi makakamit ang kapayapaan ng hindi inuugat ang puno’t dulo ng problema ng mamamayan na siyang laging tinatanggihang lutasin ng reaksyunaryong gobyerno. Ang kapayapaan ay dapat nakabatay sa katarungang panlipunan at hindi sa pambubusal sa bibig at paggapos sa kamay ng mamamayan. Hangga’t walang katarungang panlipunan ay hindi magkakaroon ng tunay na kapayapaan. Ganundin hindi titigil ang New People’s Army sa pamumuno ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas na tupdin ang kanyang sentral na tungkulin na ibagsak ang mapang-aping naghaharing sistema.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/malaya-ka-program-ng-80th-ib-lumang-istilo-ng-panlilinlang-at-panggigipit-sa-mamamayan-paglabag-sa-internasyunal-na-makataong-batas/

Chinese vessels block BFAR ship off Bajo de Masinloc

From Palawan News (Feb 18, 2024): Chinese vessels block BFAR ship off Bajo de Masinloc (By Andrew Atienza)

Photo by Philippine Coast Guard

China persists in its aggressive conduct in the West Philippine Sea, demonstrating no signs of easing its actions, and persistently harasses Philippine vessels.

Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), disclosed on Saturday that Chinese vessels had recently obstructed a BFAR boat by executing dangerous maneuvers near the Bajo de Masinloc.

“These are the four Chinese maritime militias that we also documented [that] actively participated in blocking and carrying out dangerous maneuvers to prevent the BFAR vessel from getting close to the Bajo de Masinloc,” Tarriela said.

He stated that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) did not stop with the deployment of its coast guard and militia boats, even in the presence of Philippine maritime assets.

Tarriela said they monitored four CCG vessels and a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessel.

He also said that the vessels identified as CCG 3063 and 3064 had been deployed in the area to ensure the southeast entrance of Bajo de Masinloc was well-guarded. They achieved this by setting up floating barriers whenever they detected Philippine vessels nearby.

“We experienced, of course, dangerous maneuvers… and then shadowing, not just from the PLA Navy but even from the Chinese Coast Guard and also the Chinese maritime militia. There is also participation from the Chinese maritime militia,” Tarriela said.

Tarriela said that they monitored CCG 3302 and 3105, carrying out “dangerous maneuvers” to prevent the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and PCG vessels from getting near Bajo de Masinloc.

Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave standing orders to the PCG and the BFAR to maintain their presence in the West Philippine Sea.

https://palawan-news.com/chinese-vessels-block-bfar-ship-off-bajo-de-masinloc/

Wescom naval ship arrives in Davao to deliver help to flood victims

From Palawan News (Feb 18, 2024): Wescom naval ship arrives in Davao to deliver help to flood victims (By Gerald Ticke)



BRP Davao del Sur (LD 602), a Philippine Navy vessel assigned to the Western Command, arrived in Davao City on Sunday, February 18, to bring relief goods to aid victims of a flash flood.

The navy ship sailed to Mindanao last week, carrying more than 40,000 boxes of family food packs from the DSWD and troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team 9 (MBLT 9), which is also assigned in Palawan, to assist in relief operations in the disaster-hit region.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region XI Regional Director Atty. Vanessa Gocong, Global Port Davao City Operations Manager Mark Lester Tan, and Naval Task Force 71 commander, Captain Constancio Arturo Reyes, welcomed the vessel, extending appreciation for the much-needed help to the affected communities.

“We are glad to be of service to the Dabaweรฑos. Once our mission here is accomplished, LD602 and the rest of my crew will return to WESCOM’s joint operational area in Palawan to resume our vital mission in support of external defense operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS),” LD 602 commanding officer Commander Marco Sandalo said.

https://palawan-news.com/wescom-naval-ship-arrives-in-davao-to-deliver-help-to-flood-victims/#google_vignette

NPA claims 5 Negros guerilla fronts still intact

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 17, 2024): NPA claims 5 Negros guerilla fronts still intact (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The New People’s Army Apolinario Gatmaitan Command has issued a statement claiming that its five guerilla fronts remain intact, as it also dismissed the imminent declaration of placing Negros Island under a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) as a “sham.”

In a statement, rebel spokesperson
Ka Maoche Legislador claimed that all five guerrilla fronts under the AGC-NPA continues to perform as the Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) primary weapon in waging a protracted people’s war through extensive and intensive guerrilla warfare in Negros Island.


Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd Infantry Division commander, earlier said that the state of SIPS in Negros Island may now be formally declared by the concerned Local Chief Executives, after its conditions have been met, including dismantling of all guerilla fronts.

Sison, who supervises the internal security operations of six Army battalions in Negros Island, said the SIPS declaration in a locality will attract new investments, generate more jobs, and provide opportunities to Negrenses.

Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council of Western Visayas, said that the RPOC will convene on March 13 to discuss the SIPS declaration in Negros Island.

It is no surprise that reactionary state troops will not be pulled-out from Negros Island after the 3ID pretentiously claimed guerrilla fronts on Negros were already dismantled, Legislador said.

Lacson said on Wednesday that the Philippine Army will not pull out it forces in Negros, despite the dismantling of NPA guerilla fronts.

“They will see to it (that the dismantling of guerilla fronts) is really more of a permanent situation,” he added.

Legislador further alleged that “it is also natural for Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson to parrot such talk as he represents the exploiters and oppressors of Negros Island whom the mercenary 3ID serves.”*

https://visayandailystar.com/npa-claims-5-negros-guerilla-fronts-still-intact/

5 NPAs, including high-ranking leader, surrender

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 16, 2024): 5 NPAs, including high-ranking leader, surrender (By RHODA GRACE SARON

THE 4TH Infantry Division said the communist terrorist group (CTG) once again suffered a major setback after another high-ranking leader and four other regular members surrendered on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, in Agusan del Norte.

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Balingao, 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion commanding officer, identified them as
Arnel Bahian, the deputy secretary of Sub-Regional Committee 3 (SRC-3) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), Analyn Mondas, Jaquelyn Caube Egtub, Charilyn C Rebita, and Glen F Antigua, members of Platoon 2, SRSDG SAGAY, SRC-3.

They surrendered to the soldiers of the 23IB at its headquarters at Jamboree Site, P-6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.


The surrenderees claimed they could no longer take the hunger, desire for safety, and extreme exhaustion from the relentless military offensives. They also wanted to reunite with their families.

In the first two months of this year, a series of focus military offensives were launched by the 23IB to hunt down the remnants of SRSDG Sagay. As a result, four CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs) were killed, two arrested, and nine surrendered, summing up to 15 neutralized CNTs from Jan. 8 to date.

Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, 4ID commander, commended the surrenderees for their decision and committed to providing the necessary assistance to help them get back on their feet.

“The end of this criminal group in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur in the Caraga region is near at hand. The continuous neutralization of its members during the recent encounters and the snowball of surrender thereafter is a clear manifestation of this development,” he said.

“While we acknowledge this series of surrenders as a positive step toward peace, we want to make it clear that our troops remain resolute in their mission to eliminate the threat posed by NPA criminals through the continuous conduct of military operations to hunt down its remaining members,” Cuerpo added.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/5-npas-including-high-ranking-leader-surrender/