Saturday, May 11, 2024

Army to LGUs, landowners: Do not support NPA front organizations

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 11, 2024): Army to LGUs, landowners: Do not support NPA front organizations (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division yesterday enjoined local government units (LGUs), businesses, landowners, small and medium enterprises, as well as the local populace to refrain from, desist, resist, and avoid by any means necessary the giving of any financial and material support to the CPP-NPA-NDF, or any of their front organizations.

The long arm of the law will reach those who violate the law with severe penalties as provided for under our anti-terror laws, disclosed Lt. Col. J Jay Javines, 3rd Infantry Division Civil Military Operations officer.

We ask that our LGUs and their chief executives, including our local legislators, be prudent and vigilant so that CPP NPA affiliated organizations cannot exploit our legal processes and cannot have access to government funds and resources, Javines further said.

The Supreme Court has declared red-tagging a threat to people’s life, liberty and security, and could warrant the issuance of a protection order.

Human rights group  called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to end the practice of red-tagging and abolish the government task force notorious for vilifying activists and critics as fighters or supporters of the country’s communist insurgency.

Javines said those charged for various violations of Republic Act No. 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012, which he did not identify, were afforded due process under our laws.

These cases are a result of tedious case build-up and have garnered the support of the peace-loving people of Negros Island, he added.

This is a manifestation of our people’s collective resolve and aspiration to attain a just and lasting peace by ending the CPP-NPA-NDF and their lifeline by cutting all sources of funds to finance the communist terrorist group’s (CTG) terror activities, Javines further said.*

https://visayandailystar.com/army-to-lgus-landowners-do-not-support-npa-front-organizations/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News and Analysis: Various groups hold protest on Balikatan 39-24's last day

Ang Bayan Daily News and Analysis propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 10, 2024): Various groups hold protest on Balikatan 39-24's last day
 

This article is available in Pilipino




May 10, 2024

Various groups burned the US imperialist flag in front of the headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City today, May 10. This is part of their protest against the US-launched Balikatan 39-24 joined by AFP forces. The protest coincided with the closing ceremony of Balikatan which was being held inside the camp.

Balikatan 39-24 was launched on April 22. This series is the 39th iteration since it was first launched in the 1990s. Balikatan 39-24 is considered the largest in history with 11,000 American soldiers and 5,000 Filipino troops participating. Military officials representing 14 other foreign countries also entered the country to participate and observe.

“This Balikatan is a symbol, a clear example of direct US intervention in our country. It provides no benefit to our people, it’s a disruption, a social scourge,” Raymond Palatino, general secretary of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) said. He insisted that this squanders billions of pesos from public funds with absolutely no benefit to the Filipino people.

The groups also condemned the disruption of the livelihoods of the communities affected by the war games and the environmental destruction due to bombings. Among them is the ban on fisherfolk from fishing off the coast of Palawan and the western provinces of Luzon due to the live-fire exercises of Balikatan. Thousands of fisherfolk have been without income for weeks.

Palatino says Balikatan has long been used to keep the AFP’s dependence and mendicancy for rotten and outdated weapons and military equipment from the imperialist country. He added, these weapons “are used for violence, for bombing our communities.”

They also condemned the imperialist US for supporting Zionist Israel’s genocidal campaign against the Palestinian people and ravaging Gaza. “The weapons and bombs that come from the US are used [in Gaza],” Palatino stressed. While the US and Filipino military forces are allegedly being trained in the detonation and use of war weaponry in the Philippines, similar weapons are killing thousands in Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

“We do not want the country to be used as a staging ground by the US for its imperialist agenda in Asia and in other parts of the world. The government of Marcos Jr, instead of addressing the issue of the people—hunger, [dealing with] El NiƱo, national poverty — prioritizes foreign interests, especially the imperialist US,” he emphasized.

Palatino also called for the continuation of propaganda and education campaigns to expose the crimes of US imperialism in the country, especially with the upcoming 25th anniversary of the signing of the Visiting Forces Agreement by the Philippine Government with the US on May 27.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/various-groups-hold-protest-on-balikatan-39-24s-last-day/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News and Analysis: Pinta-protesta, pagsabit ng balatengga kontra Balikatan, isinagawa ng KM at Kaguma

Ang Bayan Daily News and Analysis propaganda article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 11, 2024): Pinta-protesta, pagsabit ng balatengga kontra Balikatan, isinagawa ng KM at Kaguma (Protest painting, hanging of balatengga against Balikatan, carried out by KM and Kaguma)
 




May 11, 2024

Inilunsad ng Kabataang Makabayan (KM) at Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (Kaguma) ang kani-kanilang mga aktibidad para batikusin ang katatapos lamang na Balikatan Exercises 39-24.

Sa Australia, mapangahas na nagsagawa ng pinta-protesta ang mga kasapi ng Kabataang Makabayan (KM)-Narmm sa konsulado ng US sa Melbourne noong nakaraang linggo. Gabi nang isinagawa ng mga kasapi ng KM-Narmm ang kanilang aktibidad habang nakasuot ng takip sa mukha para protektahan ang kanilang pagkakakilanlan.

Ipininta ng mga kabataan ang katagang ‘US out of PH’ at ‘US troops out of PH now’ sa pader at salamin ng konsulado ng US. Walang mga pwersang panseguridad ang nakapigil sa pinta-protesta ng mga kabataan dahil sa katangian ng pagiging biglaan at mabilisan ng kanilang aktibidad.

Samantala, nagsabit ng malaking balatengga ang mga kasapi ng Kaguma sa isang footbridge sa Malibay, Pasay kahapon, Mayo 10. Nakasulat dito ang panawagan ng grupo na ‘Labanan ang imperyalistang giyera! Isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan!’



Pahayag ng grupo, “ito ang panawagan naming mga miyembro ng Kaguma sa pang-uupat ng giyera ng US sa China sa pamamagitan ng pinakamalaking Balikatan sa kasaysayan ng Pilipinas.” Dagdag nila, dapat manindigan ang mga Pilipino laban sa pagkaladkad ng imperyalistang US sa bansa sa inter-imperyalistang gera nito.

Mahalaga umanong balik-aralan at suriin ang isinagawa at inupatan na mga proxy war ng imperyalistang gera sa kasaysayan. “Ang lahat ng ito ay para sa kanyang interes na manatiling nag-iisang superpower,” paliwanag ng grupo.

Pagtatapos nila, tanging sa pagsusulong ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan makakamtan ng sambayanang Pilipino ang panlipunang pagbabago, pagkakapantay-pantay at tunay na pagtatanggol sa soberanya ng bansa.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/pinta-protesta-pagsabit-ng-balatengga-kontra-balikatan-isinagawa-ng-km-at-kaguma/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Rapist sa La Castellana, Ginsilotan sang LPC-NPA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 10, 2024): Rapist sa La Castellana, Ginsilotan sang LPC-NPA (Rapist in La Castellana, Punished by LPC-NPA)
 


JB Regalado
Spokesperson
NPA-Central Negros (Leonardo Panaligan Command)
New People's Army

May 10, 2024

Ang Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) ang nagpatuman sang silot-kamatayon kay Arman Binalo-ac, 38 anyos, may asawa kag mga kabataan sang Sityo Naube, Barangay Puso, La Castellana, Negros Occidental, alas 7:30 sang gab-i, Mayo 9.

Bangud sensitibo kag pinamilya ang kinaiya sang kaso, tuig 2005 napending sa korte sang pumuluyo ang ginpasaka nga kaso sa akusado. Tuig 2012-2014, ginpaninguhaan pa sang NPA nga maistorya si Arman kabahin sa ginpasaka nga kaso sa iya, apang wala gid ini nag-angkon sa pihak sang mga ebidensya gikan sa mga biktima kag mga witness.

Tungod man sang mga sirkumstansya sang seguridad nga indi gid mapaiway, nagpabilin ang nasambit nga kaso korte sang pumuluyo tubtob 2023. Ginreview ang kaso paagi sa pag-recall sang mga ebidensya, importante nga mga datus subongman ang mga mitigating and aggravating circumstances kag na-establisar kriminal nga kaso sang pagpanglugos paagi sa liwat pagtukod sang people’s court. Ini nga hukmanan ang ginakomposar sang nine-man-committee diin ara presiding judge, prosecution kag depensa bilang nagatindog nga mga hurado kag ginhimo ang pagbista sining 2024.

Ginpahamtang ang silot-kamatayon sang LPC-NPA kay Binalo-ac, matapos nga napamatud-an sang rebolusyonaryong korte sang pumuluyo nga siya ang responsable nga naglugos sa iya mga himata sadtong tuig 1998-1999. Si Arman ang nagapangatubang sa rebolusyonaryong kahublagan sang two counts of attempted rape kag one count of rape.

Gani ang rebolusyonaryong hustisya ang nagahulag kag ang malaba nga kamot sini paagi sa NPA ang indi man magduha-duha sa pagsilot sandig sa kabug-aton sang kaso nga inyo nakomiter.

Sa tanan nga may mga kaso nga gina-atubang sa pumuluyo kag rebolusyon, indi gid pagsundon ang malaswa nga gawi ni Arman Binalo-ac. Bukas ang malapit nga mga talatapan sang CPP-NPA sa inyo tampad nga pagbag-o.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/rapist-sa-la-castellana-ginsilotan-sang-lpc-npa/

CPP/Southern Tagalog RC-PIO: Paigtingin ang pakikibaka para sa nakabubuhay na sahod,Tupdin ang makasaysayang tungkuling pamunuan ang pakikibaka para sa pambansang kalayaan, demokrasya at sosyalismo!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 10, 2024): Paigtingin ang pakikibaka para sa nakabubuhay na sahod,Tupdin ang makasaysayang tungkuling pamunuan ang pakikibaka para sa pambansang kalayaan, demokrasya at sosyalismo! (Intensify the struggle for a living wage, Fulfill the historical duty to lead the struggle for national freedom, democracy and socialism!)
 


Public Information Office
CPP Southern Tagalog Regional Committee
Communist Party of the Philippines

May 10, 2024

Nagpupugay ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas – Timog Katagalugan (PKP-TK) sa lahat ng manggagawa at iba pang mamamayan sa rehiyon at sa buong bansa na lumahok sa matagumpay na kilos-protesta para gunitain ang Ika-122 Pandaigdigang Araw ng Paggawa nitong Mayo 1. Sa TK, libong manggagawa ang nagtipon mula sa kani-kanilang pook-paggawa para ipakita ang kanilang pakikiisa at paggunita. Madaling araw pala lamang noong Mayo 1, suot ang pulang t-shirt — tanda ng militanteng paglaban, sinimulan nila ang pagkilos para ipanawagan ang mga lehitimong interes at kahilingan ng sektor paggawa. Tinuligsa din nila ang nagaganap na Balikatan Exercises, VFA , EDCA at ang pagiging sagadsaring tuta ng rehimeng Marcos II sa imperyalistang US. Nagpahayag sila ng pagkontra sa cha-cha at sa PUV modernization, at kinundena ang pasistang pang-aatake sa kanilang sektor.

Ang paggunita sa Pandaigdigang Araw ng Paggawa ay pagtatambol sa mayamang kasaysayan ng kilusang paggawa. Ito ang araw na sumisimbolo ng pakikibaka at mga tagumpay ng uring manggagawa sa buong mundo — ang pakikibaka para sa 8-oras na paggawa, mataas na sahod at mahusay na kondisyon sa paggawa. Sinasaluduhan din natin ang mga martir ng kilusang paggawa na walang pag-iimbot na inialay ang kanilang nag-iisang buhay para sa kapakanan hindi lang ng kanilang uri kundi ng buong sambayanan. Muli’t muling pagtibayin ang makasaysayang misyon ng uring manggagawa — ang pinakaabanteng uri ng kasalukuyang lipunan, na may natatanging misyon na pamunuan ang pakikibaka para sa pambansang pagpapalaya at demokrasya para sa kanyang uri at sa buong bayan at itatag ang sosyalistang lipunan.

Kasama ang iba pang aping sektor at uri sa lipunan, patuloy na nananawagan ang mga manggagawa para sa nakabubuhay na sahod, pagwawakas ng kontraktwalisasyon, pagkamit ng iba pang mga benepisyo’t kagalingan at paglaban sa patuloy na pasistang pang-aatake ng estado sa kanilang mga lehitimong mga pakikibaka. Mariin nilang kinukundena ang pagpapawalang-saysay sa mga nakamit na tagumpay ng kilusang paggawa ng mga monopolyo kapitalista, malalaking burgesyang kumprador at ng estado mismo sa pamamagitan ng mga atakeng neoliberal sa mga manggagawa.

Matatandaang mula pa sa panahon ng diktadurang Marcos Sr. ng dekada 1970 at 1980 pinatindi ang pagpapailalim ng bansa sa dikta ng IMF-World Bank hanggang sa panahon ni Aquino I. Isinakatuparan ng mga ito ang neoliberal na atake sa kilusang paggawa na ang lokal na bersyon ay ang pagsasabatas ng 1989 Wage Rationalization Law at Herrera Law na higit na nagpalala sa kalagayan ng mga manggagawang kontraktwal. Sa pagpapatuloy na pagpataw ng mga neoliberal na polisiya lalong nabaon ang ekonomya ng Pilipinas. Dumami ang mga walang trabaho, lalong naghirap ang mga mangagawa at ang malawak na mamamayan. Pinagdurusa sila sa napakababang sahod, kawalan ng seguridad sa trabaho — laluna sa pag-iral ng kontraktwalisasyon, at kawalan o kakulangan ng mga serbisyong panlipunan.

Makatarungan ang hiling ng mga manggagawa para sa nakabubuhay na sahod sa gitna ng paglala ng krisis sa ekonomya, mataas na implasyon, patuloy na pagsirit ng mga presyo ng pagkain at mga serbisyo. Sa kabila ng pinakahuling kakarampot na dagdag na sahod na ibinigay ng iba’t ibang Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPB) noong nakaraang taon, mayroong 4.2 milyong manggagawa sa buong bansa na tumatanggap ng minimum na sahod ang walang disenteng pamumuhay.

Labis na naghihikahos ang mahigit 7 milyon na manggagawa sa CALABARZON na bumubuo ng 25% ng sektor sa industriya sa bansa. Konsentrado sila sa mga industriya na kalakhan ay sa Laguna, Cavite at Batangas. Sa CALABARZON at MIMAROPA tumatanggap ang mga manggagawa ng magkakaibang pasahod kada probinsya at munisipyo na P395 – P520 na lubhang malayo sa P1,123- P1,213 na kinakailangan ng isang pamilya para mamuhay nang disente sa gitna ng patuloy na pagsirit ng implasyon. Kaya lampas kalahati o P600-800 ang kakulangan ng kanilang arawang sahod para tugunan ang kanilang batayang pangangailangan. Lalong pahirap sa kanila ang kontraktwalisasayon. Sa rehiyon pito sa 10 manggagawa ay kontraktwal. Dagdag pa, umaabot din sa 75% ang underemployment sa CALABARZON at MIMAROPA, ayon sa pag-aaral ng IBON.

Laganap din ang pag-eeksport ng murang lakas paggawa na nagresulta sa pagdami ng mga migranteng manggagawang Pilipino sa ibayong dagat. Dinaranas nila ang pang-aapi at pang-aalipusta ng mga dayuhang amo o kumpanya habang tinitiis ang sakit at kalungkutang mapawalay sa pamilya. Masahol pa, hinuhuthot ng estado ang pinaghirapang kita ng mga manggagawang migrante sa anyo ng mga kaltas at buwis sa mga ipinapadalang OFW remittances sa mga kaanak.

Sa kabila ng aping kalagayan ng mga manggagawa, manhid at walang-pakialam ang papet, pahirap at pasistang rehimeng US-Marcos II sa dinaranas nila. Sa halip, nagagawa pa ng ilehitimong pangulo na linlangin ang mga manggagawa. Para pabanguhin ang sarili, nakisakay ito sa pagunita nitong Mayo 1 sa pamamagitan ng pambubuladas na sa ilalim umano ng “Bagong Pilipinas”, ang bawat manggagawa ay mamahalin, igagalang at bibigyan ng pagkakataong umunlad. Aniya, patuloy na susuportahan ng gubyerno ang uring manggagawa at itataguyod ang prinsipyo ng pagiging patas, may dignidad at pagkakapantay-pantay sa lahat ng pook-paggawa. Inatasan din niya ang National Wages and Productivity Commission na repasuhin umano ang mga patakaran nito hinggil sa sahod. Ipinagmayabang din ni Marcos Jr. ang kanyang programa na di umano’y para sa kapakanan ng mga manggagawa tulad ng Kadiwa Centers, programa sa pabahay at ang isang taong pagpapalawig ng job order sa pag-eempleyo sa gubyerno. Subalit malinaw sa mga manggagawa na ang lahat ng ito’y walang katuturan, bagkus ay paghahambog lamang ni Marcos Jr. dahil mas pinili nitong pagsilbihan ang amo nitong imperyalistang US at ang burgesyang kumprador kaysa sa interes ng mga manggagawa at ng sambayanang Pilipino.

Pangita na sa likod ng pagpapanggap ni Marcos Jr. na kinikilala umano niya ang ambag ng manggagawa sa pambansang pag-unlad, subalit pagmasaker naman sa kabuhayan ang nakaabang sa mga driver at jeepney operators na hindi nagpailalim sa korporado at makadayuhang PUV modernization na may kaakibat ng “franchise consolidation” dahil ituturing na silang iligal o colorum mula noong Mayo 1. Maapektuhan nito ang 38,000 na mga driver ng jeepney at kanilang pamilya.

Dinaranas din ng mga manggagawa sa TK, mula pa sa panahon ni Duterte hanggang sa kasalukuyang rehimen ni Marcos II ang pinatinding pasistang panunupil. Di kukulangin sa 100 na manggagawa ang “binisita” ng mga ahente ng estado. Nagkaroon ng 36 na iba’t ibang kaso ng harassment at paglabag sa karapatang tao, kabilang ang pagbabanta gamit ang text messaging, pagpapaskil ng poster at tarpaulin na nag-uugnay sa mamamayan sa NPA, pagbisita ng pulis at ahente ng estado sa mga bahay ng biktima, pagsampa ng gawa-gawang kaso at iligal na pang-aaresto. At ang pinakamalala ay ang sabay-sabay na pang-aatake sa mga lider manggagawa na nagluwal sa “Bloody Sunday Massacre” na ikinasawi ni Manny Azuncion at iba pang lider-masa. Gayundin ang pagpaslang sa presidente ng unyon na si Dandy Miguel habang papauwi sa bahay sa Calamba City, Laguna. Nagpapatuloy pa rin hanggang sa kasalukuyan ang panghaharas at red-tagging/terrorist-tagging sa mga nakikibakang manggagawa.

Dapat paigtingin ng mangagawa ang pakikibaka para sa pang-ekonomiya at pampulitikang mga adhikain. Dapat patuloy na ipaglaban ang regularisasyon sa paggawa, ipabasura ang kontraktwalisasyon at ipaglaban ang mga karapatan at benepisyong dati nang ipinagwagi pero pinawalang saysay ng mga patakarang neoliberal. Dapat puspusang labanan ang labis na pagpapakatuta ng rehimeng US-Marcos II sa imperyalismong US na sukdulang nagsasapanganib sa kalayaan at kaligtasan ng sambayanang Pilipino na naiipit sa inter-imperyalistang tunggalian ng US at China. Magagawa ito sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalawak at pagpapalakas ng militante at progresibong kilusang unyon na magsusulong at nagsisilbi sa sustenidong pakikibaka ng mga manggagawa.

Ang papatinding terorismo ng estado na ginagawang imposible ang paglaban para sa makatarungang kahilingan ang magtutulak sa manggagawa para tahakin ang armadong pakikibaka. Ang digmang bayan ang magluluwal ng demokratikong gubyernong bayan sa ilalim ng pamumuno ng rebolusyonaryong Partido ng uring proletaryado. Ang Pulang kapangyarihan ng mamamayan ay palalakasin at patatagin ng Pulang hukbo at mga pangmasang organisasyon ng mga uring anakpawis at iba pang makabayan at demokratikong pwersa.

Nanawagan ang PKP-TK sa mga manggagawa at sa lahat ng aping mamamayan na paigtingin ang pakikibaka laban sa imperyalismo, pyudalismo at burukratang kapitalismo na siyang ugat ng paghihirap ng uring manggagawa at ng malawak na mamamayang Pilipino. Dapat patuloy na hawakan ng uring mangagawa ang pamumuno sa rebolusyong Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng patuloy na pagpapalakas ng kanilang hanay at ng proletaryong pamumuno sa pangunahing pwersa ng rebolusyon — ang uring magsasaka at pagkabig sa iba pang makabayan at demokratikong pwersa. Sa gitna ng papalubhang krisis sa ekonomya, panlipunang ligalig at mga gerang bunsod ng labis na krisis ng monoployo kapitalismo, dapat pag-ibayuhin ang rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka para sa pambansang kalayaan, demokrasya at sosyalismo.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/tupdin-ang-makasaysayang-tungkuling-pamunuan-ang-pakikibaka-para-sa-pambansang-kalayaan-demokrasya-at-sosyalismo/

CPP/CIO: Balikatan exercises trample on Philippine sovereignty and security

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (May 10, 2024): Balikatan exercises trample on Philippine sovereignty and security
 

This article is available in Pilipino

Marco Valbuena
Chief Information Officer
Communist Party of the Philippines
May 10, 2024

In collusion with the Marcos regime and its armed forces, the US government and military showed utter contempt for Philippine sovereignty and security when it used the country as a launching pad for its inordinate display of firepower to serve its obsession with provoking a war with its imperialist rival China.

The large-scale Balikatan war exercises conducted on Philippine land and territorial waters only served to further raise the temperature of military conflict in Asia, particularly in the South China Sea.

The Party and the Filipino people condemn the Marcos regime for allowing the US and its allies to use the country’s territorial waters for war maneuvers. Conducting these so-called “freedom of navigation operations” from Philippine waters further pushes the country into the vortex of growing conflict, and increases the danger of being dragged into an inter-imperialist war.

We must condemn the US and Philippine armed forces for using the shores of Rizal town in Palawan to fire several rockets from US HIMARS missile launchers into the waters of the South China Sea, purportedly against an intruding force, with a clear allusion against China.

The Party likewise denounces the US and Philippine military for mounting their howitzers and other weapons at the sand dunes of Laoag to turn the northern coasts of the Philippines into a firing range where a “made in China” ship of an “imaginary enemy” was used as target for artillery and aerial bombs. The live-fire exercises, billed as the “climax” of the Balikatan war games, are clearly aimed at antagonizing and provoking China, raising tensions, and hindering diplomatic and peaceful efforts to resolve disputes.

The Party condemns the US military for flying low its jet fighters, which not only violated the country’s sovereign airspace, but also caused panic and trauma among residents in the northern towns and provinces of the Philippines.

The Party condemns the Balikatan war games for disrupting the livelihood of tens of thousands of people, especially fisherfolk along Palawan and the western coastal provinces of Luzon, who were driven away from their fishing grounds by the AFP’s enforcements of a “no sail” fishing ban, leaving them without income for several weeks. The Balikatan war games also saw a total disregard for the environment with rockets being fired, bombs being exploded and US warships dumping its toxic waste on Philippine waters.

The Balikatan war exercises were conducted alongside a psywar campaign by the US and the AFP to varnish and glorify the image of the brutal US war machine. The US is using the strategy of shock and awe to manipulate the mindset of the Filipino people. Local news reports are being shaped by US narratives, and carry the language and phraseologies promoted by the US government and echoed by defense and military officials of the Marcos government. Not a few Filipino journalists, academics and opinion makers–consciously or unconsciously, well-meaning or not–are promoting US-fueled Sinophobia among Filipinos. On various platforms, US imperialism is being depicted as a “big brother” and “defender.” Attention is being drawn away from the fact that across the world, the US is being condemned for its direct culpability in the genocide being carried out by Israel against the Palestinian people, or in prolonging the war in Ukraine by pouring weapons into its proxy.

This year’s Balikatan exercises by the US military, the largest to date, show the rising tempo of US military intervention in Asia, along with its “first island chain” geopolitical strategy to contain or prevent the expansion of China’s economic and military power. We are in the latest phase of the US “pivot to Asia” which it declared in 2011, in order to secure and expand its economic interests. Since then, the US has heightened its military presence from Japan to Australia, as well as in Pacific countries. In line with its strategy, the US has strengthened its military presence in the Philippines by increasing the number of military bases, aka EDCA sites, across the Philippines. Behind the veil of non-stop military “exercises,” the US military continues to maintain a permanent presence in the Philippines, strengthening its military foothold in the country.

China has become increasingly antagonistic and aggressive in countering growing US military presence, saber-rattling and war provocations. It has so far refused to cross the red line of armed confrontation with either the US or the Philippine military by using so-called “gray tactics,” but has aggrieved the Filipino people by denying Filipino fishermen access from their traditional and shared fishing grounds in the Scarborough Shoal. It has also water-bombed Philippine Coast Guard and civilian vessels, claiming their “supply missions” were violating its “gentleman’s agreement” with the Duterte and Marcos regimes.

Heightened US military presence and intensified intervention in the South China Sea, in collusion with the AFP, must be vigorously denounced because these impede diplomatic, non-antagonistic and peaceful means of settling disputes in the South China Sea. In order to pursue non-military solutions to these disputes, we must also oppose the steady and large presence of Chinese military and paramilitary vessels in the South China Sea, especially those within the exclusive economic zone and extended continental shelf of the Philippines.

The Marcos regime’s alignment and subservience to the war-obsessed US imperialists further tramples on Philippine sovereignty and threatens the country’s security. The puppet Marcos proves that an independent foreign policy cannot be realized under the current semicolonial and semifeudal system, and the class rule of big bourgeois compradors and big landlords.

Amid intensifying US war preparations and provocations and rising dangers of the Philippines being dragged into an inter-imperialist war, the Party calls on the Filipino people to stand united and fight for genuine national freedom. Only by liberating the Philippines from the clutches of US imperialism can the Filipino people have the power to shape its own history and create a society that is prosperous and just.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/balikatan-exercises-trample-on-philippine-sovereignty-and-security/

China disinformation campaign validates PH transparency on WPS row

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): China disinformation campaign validates PH transparency on WPS row (By Priam Nepomuceno and Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)



National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea spokesperson, PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

MANILA – China’s intensified disinformation campaign on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and personal attacks against Philippine government officials prove that the country's transparency efforts have been effective, an official of the National Task Force for the WPS (NTF-WPS) said Friday.

NTF-WPS spokesperson, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commodore Jay Tarriela, said the Chinese Communist Party (CPP) has increased efforts to carry out information operations and undermine transparency in the WPS through “lies, misinformation, and fake news.”

“Exposing their bullying tactics and countering their lies is important to ensure a better future for our next generation,” Tarriela said in a post over X.

The CPP, he said, has resorted to ad hominem or unrelated personal attacks against him and other Philippine government officials.

“Regardless of the ad hominem attacks they may throw at our truth-tellers and patriots who support our fight for WPS, we remain committed to being the messengers of our factual narratives,” he said.

He noted that the campaign over the WPS is for the good of the country and its future.

“I hope that the paid trolls or the pro-China influencers can be able to look straight in the eyes of their children and grandchildren that their fight is not for China’s interest,” he said.

On Wednesday, China announced it would release a recorded phone call between Western Command chief, Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, and a Chinese diplomat about an alleged agreement to ease tensions in Ayungin Shoal.

In response, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. doubted the authenticity of the supposed audio recording due to the “propensity of the Chinese government to engage in malign information activities.”

Since last year, several similarly worded social media posts also alleged that Tarriela was a covert “CIA agent” or has been taking orders from the United States (US) Naval Institute or other US agencies.

Ado Paglinawan, a pro-China Asian Century Journal columnist, dubbed Tarriela “Tonto” or the Lone Ranger’s sidekick, the once popular US cowboy TV and film series.

In March, columnist Rigoberto Tiglao questioned Tarriela why he was kicked out of the Philippine Military Academy, following a heated discourse over the WPS on X.

AƱo wants ‘leakers’ out of PH

Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Eduardo AƱo on Friday said individuals in the Chinese Embassy who are responsible for leaking the purported audio recording should be immediately removed from the Philippines.

"Those individuals in the Chinese Embassy responsible for violating Philippine laws and the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and those responsible for these malign influence and interference operations must be removed from the country immediately," he said in a statement.

AƱo also echoed Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s view for the Department of Foreign Affairs to take appropriate actions against individuals for violating Philippine laws, particularly the Anti-Wire Tapping Act, as well as for serious breaches of diplomatic protocols and conventions.

"The Chinese Embassy's repeated acts of engaging in and dissemination of disinformation, misinformation, and malinformation - now releasing spurious transcripts or recordings of purported conversations between officials of the host country - should not be allowed to pass unsanctioned or without serious penalty," he added.

AƱo also stressed that the unmistakable objective of the Chinese Embassy in its indiscriminate releasing of these falsehoods and smears has been and continues to sow discord, division, and disunity between and among the Filipino people.

"Bypassing official and long established channels and protocols, talking to officials without the requisite authorities or bona fides, then maliciously claiming that alleged discussions should bind the Philippine government is farcical, foolish, and reckless," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224463

DND chief sees realistic scenarios in next 'Balikatan' drills

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): DND chief sees realistic scenarios in next 'Balikatan' drills (By Priam Nepomuceno)



MULTILATERAL MARITIME DRILL. The formation of ships from the Philippines, US and France during the multilateral maritime exercise" (MME) of this year's "Balikatan" drills on April 29, 2024. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday (May 10) said the next edition of the annual US-Philippines "Balikatan" exercises will see heightened action through more realistic scenarios and full battle simulations. (Photo courtesy of AFP Western Command)

MANILA – Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday said the next edition of the annual US-Philippines "Balikatan" exercises will see heightened action through more realistic scenarios and full battle simulations.

In his speech at the closing rites in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the defense chief also extended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s well wishes to all participants of the three-week drills.

"He (Marcos) looks forward to next year's exercise which will be, I believe, a full battle simulation which will put to the test the combined capabilities in the most realistic of scenarios possible with safety in mind," Teodoro said.

The DND chief also applauded the drills which concluded without untoward incidents.

"That's not easy, given the El NiƱo period now. It probably posed a significant challenge in operating, particularly to those on the ground," Teodoro said.

Some 16,000 Filipino and American soldiers took part in the exercises which started on April 22.

Teodoro also echoed the observation made by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson that it had been a productive year for bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Manila and Washington, D.C. and their allies, such as Australia, Japan, France, India, Canada, and other "like-minded nations."

This came following the trilateral summit among the Philippines, US, and Japan, where key defense and security officials also tackled mutual concerns.

"And we look forward to exercises such as this where at least on the Philippine side, we go out of our normal comfort zone and try to focus on actual soldiering which is what an armed forces need (to be doing) and after this exercise both sides will go back to the drawing board," he added.

Teodoro said Marcos is waiting for an "extensive debrief" of the "Balikatan" successes, aside from the gaps that need to be filled in terms of interoperability, human resources capabilities and sustainment.

Such things are important for the continuation of bilateral and multilateral cooperation of the Philippines with its allies, he added.

"We have also witnessed on the Philippine side the shift towards, as I said, getting out of their comfort zones and I have told the AFP that we will be increasing the pressure continuously for them to evolve as soon as possible into a multi-threat, multi-theater operating armed force consistent with the archipelagic doctrine nature of our country and the necessity for defending it in a proactive and not a passive manner," Teodoro said.

During the drills, participating forces engaged in various training scenarios throughout the exercise to enhance interoperability and readiness across critical areas such as external defense operations, cyber defense, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and inter-agency capacity-building.

This year’s exercise highlighted the combined capabilities of the AFP and the US Armed Forces in addressing complex security challenges through the information warfighter exercise (IWX) that empowered military planners to set the standard for future local IO training programs.

The first-ever multilateral maritime exercise marked a historic milestone in regional cooperation, providing participating countries with invaluable knowledge to propel their naval forces.

In addition, demonstrating proficiency in maritime defense tactics and promoting peace, the counter landing live fire exercise and maritime strike exercise showcased the combined capabilities of the AFP and the US Armed Forces in addressing complex security challenges.

The humanitarian civic action program also extended crucial assistance to over 23,000 Filipino citizens, contributing to nationwide projects and training events.

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the exercise reaffirmed the strong bond between the two armed forces and their commitment to uphold peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region.

“I expressed our deepest gratitude for the continuing learning and collaboration. To every soldier, airman, sailor, and marine from all the participating countries, I hope you optimized your takeaways from this year’s Balikatan exercise and utilized this in a more informative and productive Balikatan exercise in the future,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224465

New PCG ship repair facility boosts maritime security

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): New PCG ship repair facility boosts maritime security (By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz)



NEW FACILITY. Officials of the Philippine Coast Guard and the US Embassy in the Philippines cut the ribbon for the newly constructed Maintenance and Repair Group Workshop Facility in Sangley Point, Cavite on Thursday (May 9, 2024). PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega, said Friday (May 10, 2024) that the new facility would be used in repairing ships and small floating assets to ensure the country's ability to safeguard its maritime territory. (Photo courtesy of PCG)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) newly constructed maintenance and repair facility in Cavite province will enhance the country’s ability to safeguard its maritime territory, an official said Friday.

PCG Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Allan Victor Dela Vega, said the facility would enhance the capabilities of the Maritime Safety Services Command headquarters in Cavite Bouy Base, Sangley Point.

“We will make full use of this workshop facility and employ the highest standards of maintenance practices to ensure the continued reliability and readiness of our ships and small boats,” he said in a news release.

Dela Vega thanked the United States government for the facility and emphasized its importance in the two nations’ bilateral relations.

“This invaluable contribution is a significant milestone in our partnership, and will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities in ship and small boat repair and maintenance,” he said.

Robert Ewing, the chief of mission for the US Embassy in the Philippines, said the facility would ensure the continued operation of the country’s maritime assets.

“The most important outcome of this facility is more persistent and reliable vessel operations out at sea, countering illegal fishing, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and addressing unlawful activities from aggressive foreign actors,” he said.

He assured that there would be many more “upcoming opportunities” for partnership between the two countries.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224502

No report of destab plot among police ranks: PBBM

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): No report of destab plot among police ranks: PBBM (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)



President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (File photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday said he has not received any reports of a destabilization plot involving active police officials against his administration.

In a media interview following the distribution of presidential assistance to farmers and fisherfolk in General Santos City, Marcos dismissed the supposed ouster move against him, claiming that Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel are not engaged in politicking.

Marcos, however, did not rule out the possibility that retired officials could be hatching a destabilization plot.

"I don't see --- wala kaming report na in the ranks. Iyong mga retired baka mayroon, mayroong mga gumagalaw, sumasama sa mga destab na ginagawa. Pero sa ating mga kapulisan at siyempre lalo na sa officer corps, wala naman tayong nakikitang ganun na namumulitika ang mga police (We don't have a report in the ranks. It could be possible that the retired officials could take part in the destabilization efforts. But in the police service, especially the officer corps, we don't see any politicking)," he said.

Marcos called on the police and military to stay committed to their sworn duty and set aside politics.

“Kahit hindi mo ako binoto okay lang sa akin basta’t maging professional ka. Gawin mo ‘yung trabaho mo nang tama. Iyon lang naman ang hinihiling ko sa lahat ng police, sa lahat ng Armed Forces (Even if you did not vote for me, it's okay as long as you're a professional. Just do your job right. That is the only thing I wish from the police and the armed forces),” he added.

President Marcos also expressed continued trust and confidence in the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, stressing that he does not need to conduct a loyalty check among their ranks.

Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV earlier claimed that high-ranking police officials were recruiting personnel to join the ouster plot.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said this kind of scheme, no matter how small, would not escape the validation efforts of their intelligence units.

"We have not monitored any police officer who is involved in this so-called destabilization plot and we have not monitored any destabilization plot for that matter," Fajardo said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224471

Int'l support for WPS claims ensures stability – PBBM

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): Int'l support for WPS claims ensures stability – PBBM (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)



DISPUTED AREA. Chinese vessels are seen trespassing in Iroquois Reef within the West Philippine Sea in this photo taken June 30, 2023. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday (May 10, 2024) said international support for the Philippines in asserting its sovereign rights over the WPS ensures stability in the maritime domain. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday said the international support for the Philippines in asserting its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is vital in ensuring stability in the maritime domain.

In a media interview in General Santos City, President Marcos said he remains thankful for the global support amid China's aggression in the disuputed waters.

"Kami’y nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga iba’t ibang bansa kahit na nanggagaling sa malayo pa ngunit sila ay handang tumulong sa atin (We are grateful to the various countries, even those from afar, for their willingness to support us),” he said.

Marcos particularly welcomed intentions of the French government to join the military exercises in the WPS to uphold the freedom of navigation.

President Marcos said support from the international community will also guarantee that the global economy will not be impacted.

“Kaya’t lahat ng tumutulong sa atin, lahat ng tumutulong sa Pilipinas, kami’y nagpapasalamat at ito ay magiging malaking bagay, malaking tulong para mapayapa at maging stable ang West Philippine Sea (We thank everyone supporting the Philippines because this would be a significant help to ensure peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea),” the President said.

Around 16,000 Filipino and American soldiers took part in the "Exercise Balikatan" drills from April 22 to May 10.

The first multilateral maritime exercise (MME) among the Philippines, United States, and France ended on April 30.

The five-day MME culminated in a series of demonstrations, including a photo exercise showcasing professionalism and coordination in a simulated formation sailing scenario, and documenting operations through proper photographic techniques for military purposes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224500

PCG places ‘prolonged presence’ in Sabina Shoal amid Chinese sightings

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2024): PCG places ‘prolonged presence’ in Sabina Shoal amid Chinese sightings (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)



PROLONGED PRESENCE. Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, discusses recent Chinese incursions in Sabina Shoal, during the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City on May 11, 2024. Tarriela said the PCG would maintain a “prolonged presence” in the shoal to deter further illegal Chinese activities in the area. (PNA photo by Robert Alfiler)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Saturday it would maintain a “prolonged presence” in Escoda Shoal, commonly known as Sabina Shoal, following the sightings of Chinese vessels and the discovery of dumped crushed corals in the feature.

The PCG, under the instruction of PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gavan, deployed BRP Teresa Magbanua on April 15 after receiving an intelligence report that the Chinese were conducting unauthorized marine research in the feature.

In the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, said this is the PCG’s “longest” deployment on record in the West Philippine Sea, with BRP Cabra and BRP Malabrigo also conducting rotational deployment from the shoal to Rozul Reef.

In its initial dives to assess the shoal, Tarriela said, the PCG found that some of its sand bars have expanded in size due to the dumped corals.

“Ngayon, mino-monitor natin extensively ang movement ng Chinese research vessels. Itong tatlong Chinese research vessels na ito, mayroon silang parang mother boat na pinakamalaking research vessel na nandito sa Sabina Shoal at mayroong dalawang maliit pa (At present, we are extensively monitoring the movement of the Chinese research vessels. They have three – the mother boat, which is the biggest and stationed in Sabina Shoal, and two smaller ones),” he said.

The two research vessels, he said, circle the entire feature and deploy the service boats that ferry different types of instruments and divers to the seabed.

“We are thinking that they are actually measuring something here in Escoda Shoal, and they have been providing the data to the mother boats,” Tarriela said.

Throughout BRP Teresa Magbanua’s stay, the PCG also spotted People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels with bow numbers 622, 537, and 570, as well as a PLA Navy helicopter loitering in the area.

Also sighted were Chinese Coast Guard vessels 4402, 21555, 21556, and 3303, alongside more than 30 other Chinese maritime militia vessels monitoring the PCG’s movement.

“These are the same vessels that they are deploying in Ayungin Shoal, but again, let me stress the fact that Ayungin Shoal ay mas malayo pa sa Sabina Shoal, yet these vessels are getting nearer sa atin at nagpapalagi na sila ngayon sa Sabina Shoal (Ayungin Shoal is farther than Sabina Shoal, yet, these vessels are getting nearer to us and are actually there now in Sabina Shoal)” Tarriela said.

Sabina Shoal is about 75 nautical miles away from mainland Palawan and is situated well within the country’s 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Tarriela explained that the PCG could technically take into custody these researchers for conducting unauthorized activities within the country’s waters but is unable to do so due to incessant interference from the Chinese Coast Guard.

“Every time they deploy their service boats who will bring divers to the seabed, the PCG would also bring rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB),” he shared.

“By the time we reach the service boats of these marine scientists, nagde-deploy na rin ang China ng limang RHIB para harangan ang PCG (China would also deploy five RHIB to block the PCG). In terms of the resources and the forces that they can deploy, obviously, that answers your question.”

Tarriela, however, said the current deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua is proving to be effective in deterring what he believes is China’s attempt at “small-scale reclamation.”

"The main objective of our prolonged presence in Sabina Shoal is to prevent the Chinese government in carrying out their illegal action of reclamation and possible reclamation in Sabina Shoal. And for 26 days, we have been very successful in doing that," he said.

“The mere fact na wala tayong namamataan na pagtatambak dito at ang mga areas na minonitor natin since day one hasn’t really expanded, ito ang objective dito (that we did not see any dumping and the areas we have monitored since day one no longer expanded, these are our objective).”

Within PH EEZ

In an ABS-CBN interview, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said China has no business lingering in Sabina Shoal as this feature is submerged and clearly under the country's EEZ.

Carpio said that if found that China’s activity is meant to develop the feature, it is highly likely that China’s plan could be to build an outpost given Sabina Shoal’s strategic location from the resource-rich Reed Bank.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea under its so-called nine-dash line that covers several features within the Philippine EEZ, including Sabina and Ayungin Shoals, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, where Chinese harassment against Filipino civilian vessels has recently intensified.

In a separate briefing with visiting Filipino journalists in Hawaii on May 6, a senior US Defense official warned of “more tension” in the area amid China's coercive behavior.

“In the South China Sea, East China Sea, again, coercive behavior, you see that in the attempts to resupply Second Thomas Shoal, in an attempt to expand their excessive territorial playing (sic) territorial claims,” the American official said.

“And you can only expect more tension, especially as hard hydrocarbon exploitation becomes more and more prevalent in the region.”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224539

Farmers’ daughter tops PMA Class 2024; 6 other female cadets in top 10

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): Farmers’ daughter tops PMA Class 2024; 6 other female cadets in top 10 (By Liza Agoot)



BRIGHTEST. The top graduates of Philippine Military Academy Bagong Sinag Class of 2024 pose for a group photo at the announcement of their rankings in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City on Friday (May 10, 2024). Valedictorian Jeneth Elumba (5th from left) of Surigao del Norte will lead the 278 graduates on May 18, with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as their guest of honor and speaker. (PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Jeneth Elumba, the daughter of rice farmers and village officials from Surigao del Norte, topped the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2024.

The PMA also announced on Friday that seven female cadets of Bagong Sinag Class 2024 are in the top 10.

Elumba, who will join the Philippine Army, dedicated her achievement to her father.

“He is a frustrated uniformed personnel, being a Criminology graduate who wanted to join or to serve the public. But due to circumstances, he was not able to pursue such a career,” Elumba said in an interview on the sidelines of the formal announcement of top graduating cadets at Longayban Hall here.

The top student said it was her father who encouraged her to serve in the military.

“When we watch the television or are exposed to uniformed personnel in the community, he would encourage me and tell me, why not join? Look at them. They have the privilege to serve the public and also to be of service to the people,” Elumba, 24 said.

The graduation on May 18 will be composed of 224 males and 54 females.

The six other females in the top 10 are Cyril Joy Masculino of Camarines Sur (4th); Rosmel Dogello of Jamindan, Capiz (5th); Alexa Mye Valen of Lanao Del Norte (6th); Giselle Tong of Tuguegarao, Cagayan (8th); Danica Marie Viray of Pasay City (9th); and Neriva Binag of Cabagan, Isabela (10th).

Mark Armuel Boiles of Quezon City and Kim Harold Gilo of Butuan City, ranked second and third, respectively, while in seventh place is Floyd Nino Arthur Roxas of Iloilo province.

Bagong Silang Class 2024 started with 350 cadets but only 278 made it.

Of the 278 cadets, 144 are joining the Philippine Army, 62 are going to the Philippine Air Force and 72 are joining the Philippine Navy.

Covid cadets

PMA superintendent Lt. General Rowen Tolentino said the graduating class entered the academy at the height of the pandemic in May 2020 and the students were in a bubble for two years.

They were not allowed to leave the PMA premises or be visited by anybody.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224491

113 soldiers in Visayas honored

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): 113 soldiers in Visayas honored (By John Rey Saavedra)



COMBAT MEDAL. Visayas Command commander Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg (left) pins the Gold Cross Medal on Friday (May 10, 2024) to a soldier who was wounded in an encounter at the Barangay San Gabriel, Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Jan. 6, 2024, which resulted in the neutralization of Martin Coloma alias Amos/Maki/Seloy, the secretary of Sub-regional Committee Sesame of the New People's Army. The wounded soldier was among the 113 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Visayas honored for their exemplary combat actions and peace-building initiatives.(Photo contributed by the Viscom PIO)

CEBU CITY – The Visayas Command (Viscom) has awarded medals to 113 soldiers for their exemplary actions during combat and peace-building initiatives, an Army official said on Friday.

Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, commander of Viscom, said 28 officers and 85 enlisted personnel were given Gold Cross Medals, one conferred to the awardee who is still confined to a hospital due to a combat wound, while 14 were given Silver Cross Medals for their combat and intelligence operations.

Reyeg also pinned the Gawad sa Kaunlaran Medals to 93 personnel, including Brig. Gen. Efren Morados, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, and Brig. Gen. Perfecto PeƱaredondo, acting deputy commander of the 8th Infantry Division, for their successful civil-military peace-building initiatives.

Six other personnel received the Meritorious Achievement Medal for their significant efforts in enhancing the capability and readiness of the Combat Support and Combat Service Support units of Joint Task Force Storm.

“The soldiers, hailing from various units within Viscom, have demonstrated outstanding bravery and professionalism in the face of adversity, distinguishing themselves through their combat feats and their tireless efforts to foster peace and stability within our local communities,” Reyeg said in a statement.

He said the awards reflect Viscom’s firm stand on the importance of recognizing not only military achievements but also the vital role played by the Armed Forces in the Visayas in promoting peace and harmony among diverse populations.

The Viscom chief urged the soldiers to keep the momentum and build upon the gains in their campaign against insurgency.

“Every action contributes to our overarching goal of peace and stability in the entire Visayas region. As such, I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment, and let us press on our unwavering resolve in ending the local communist armed conflict,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224477

PMA Class of 2024 vows to defend territory anytime

From the Philippine News Agency (May 10, 2024): PMA Class of 2024 vows to defend territory anytime (By Liza Agoot)



Philippine Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Rowen Tolentino (PNA photo by Liza Agoot)

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Cadets of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) who will become junior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines by May 18 vowed to defend the country anytime.

Cadet Miguel Ponce Abesamis from Olongapo City said the moment he joined the institution in 2020, he had already instilled in his mind to be prepared for anything.

“The mere fact that I decided to join this prestigious institution, I should be prepared for anything,” he said on the sidelines of the formal announcement of PMA’s top graduating cadets of "Bagong Sinag" Class of 2024.

He said the academy taught and equipped him not just with physical and mental capabilities but also with skills and strategies in defense of the country.

“Because of how PMA developed me, and the future officer that I would be, whatever happens in my area of specialization, I should be prepared to defend the people, country, territory,” he said during a press conference.

Cadet Kim Harold Gilo, the Class’ No. 3 who is joining Abesamis in the Philippine Navy, vowed to perform his best while asserting the country’s sovereignty and freedom.

“We will do our best to hone ourselves and continuously develop ourselves to be ready anytime where the sovereignty of our country will be on the line,” Gilo said.

PMA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Rowen Tolentino said part of the curriculum of the cadets is to expose them to the field and provide them with skills in territorial defense.

“'Yung role nila as a platoon leader, ensign, pilots sa Air Force, kanya-kanyang role na sila for external defense, 'yun na 'yung nagiging focus ng mga scenario ng mga (Their roles as platoon leaders, ensign, pilots of the Air Force, they have their own roles for external defense and that is the focus of the scenarios during their) Joint Field Training Program Exercises,” Tolentino said.

The graduation on May 18 will be composed of 224 males and 54 females.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1224505