CPP/NPA-Batangas Southern Tagalog ROC: Hindi pagmamalasakit kundi kalapastanganan sa katawan ng tatlong Pulang mandirigma ng NPA-Batangas ang ginawa ng 59th IBPA at PNP! Hinding-hindi malilinis ang duguang kamay ng pasista-teroristang armadong pwersa ng estado!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 7, 2024): Hindi pagmamalasakit kundi kalapastanganan sa katawan ng tatlong Pulang mandirigma ng NPA-Batangas ang ginawa ng 59th IBPA at PNP! Hinding-hindi malilinis ang duguang kamay ng pasista-teroristang armadong pwersa ng estado! (he 59th IBPA and PNP did not care but desecrated the bodies of the three Red fighters of NPA-Batangas! The bloody hands of the fascist-terrorist armed forces of the state will never be cleaned!)

 


Gregorio Caraig

Spokesperson

NPA-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command)

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

July 07, 2024

Pinagpupugayan ng buong rebolusyunaryong kilusan sa Batangas at ng New People’s Army-Eduardo Dagli Command ang tatlong kasamang Pulang mandirigma na nagbuwis ng kanilang buhay para sa masang api at pinagsasamantalahan. Ang tatlong martir ay pinaslang ng teror-pasistang 59th Infantry Batallion ng Philippine Army noong Hunyo 23, 2024 sa naganap na labanan sa hangganan ng mga barangay ng Bolbok at Dao, Tuy, Batangas.

Sa ilalim ng bandilang Pula ng armadong pakikibaka, itaas natin ang ating mga kamao at isigaw natin nang buong pagmamalaki ang kabayanihan nina Gladys Cassandra “Ka George” Mendoza, Jethro Royce “Ka Alex” Magtira, at Jian Markus “Ka Reb” Tayco.

Sina Ka George, Ka Alex, at Ka Reb ay mga rebolusyonaryong kabataang tinahak ang armadong paglaban sapagkat alam nilang tanging ang pagtatagumpay ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan na may sosyalistang perspektiba ang gagarantiya sa maningning na kinabukasan para sa mga kabataang magsasaka, manggagawa at peti-burgesya. Sila’y mabubuting anak ng bayan na bagama’t hindi mga taal na Batangueño ay piniling iambag ang kanilang galing, talino at husay sa pagsusulong ng rebolusyon sa probinsya. Dapat silang ipagmalaki ng masang Batangueño sampu ng magigiting na martir ng rebolusyon sa Batangas!

Lubos ang pakikiramay ng Eduardo Dagli Command sa kanilang mga pamilya. Maraming salamat sa kanilang pagtanggap sa tinahak na landas ng kanilang butihing anak. Walang kapantay na sakit ang dinulot ng pagpaslang ng mga militar, pagpapabaya sa mga bangkay at lalong bigat pa ang kanilang naramdaman nang hanggang sa huli ay pinahirapan pa rin ng mga berdugong militar ang pamilya ng tatlong kasamang martir. Ayon sa ulat ng mga human rights organization, hindi kaagad ibinigay ang mga labi nina Ka Alex at Ka Reb dahil sa ginawang delaying tactics ng PNP-Tuy at 59th IBPA, interogasyon at intimidasyon sa pamilyang Magtira at Tayco. Liban dito, hinaras at tinakot rin ng mga militar at pulis ang mga makataong grupong sumama at tumulong sa pamilya nina Ka Alex at Reb.

Ang parehong takot na naramdaman ng dalawang pamilya ang mismong tumatak sa pamilya ni Gladys Cassandra “Ka George” Mendoza. Hindi nila naiuwi ang mga labi ng mahal nilang si Ka George. Kung kaya, pinagsikapin ng humanitarian team na madala siya sa kanyang libingan at mabigyan ng parangal at pagdakila.

Naghuhugas ng kanilang duguang kamay ang kasundaluhan ng 59th IBPA at PNP-Tuy sa kanilang ginawang palabas na paghahatid kay Ka George. Imbes na agwatan ang mapayapang programa ng paghahatid sa huling pahingahan ng kasama, pumapel pa rito ang mga sundalo at pulis para lamang makalikha ng isang palabas na makapagpapabango sa kanilang mabahong pangalan. Paano nila masasabing maayos at makatao ang kanilang ginawa kung sila naman mismo ang pumaslang sa kanya? Kung sila mismo ang nananakot sa kaniyang pamilya na nais sanang maiuwi ang kaniyang mga labi? Buhay man o patay ang mga rebolusyonaryo’t mamamayan ay hindi marunong gumalang sa internasyunal na makataong batas ang berdugong 59th IBPA at ng mga PNP-Tuy!

Sa video na kanilang inupload sa Facebook, makikita na mga sundalo at pulis ang nagbuhat ng kaniyang kabaong upang pilit palabasing mayroon silang katiting na pagpapahalaga sa kalagayan ni Ka George. Sa totoong buhay, hinarurot ng mga asal-hayop na mga sundalong ito ang kanilang 6×6 na trak at nilampasan ang sasakyan ng humanitarian team upang mauna silang makarating sa sementeryo at hanggang sa huling saglit ay nakawin muli ang mga labi ni Ka George.

Gaanuman pumostura, walang kredibilidad na maaangkin ang 59th IBPA at PNP-Batangas. Ganitong-ganito rin ang ginawa nila sa anim na Pulang madirigma at dalawang sibilyan na kanilang pinaslang sa Barangay Malalay, Balayan noong Disyembre 17, 2023. Matapos marekober ang mga bangkay, sinadyang ibilad sa araw nang mahabang oras; at hinayaang umabot sa paglobo at pagkaagnas ang katawan ng mga kasama. Ang isa sa dalawang sibilyang babaeng kanilang pinaslang ay nakababa ang pantalon hanggang hita, tanda ng kahalayan at kabastusan ng mga manyakis na 59th IBPA. ITO AY MALINAW AT PAULIT-ULIT NA PAGLABAG SA SEKSYON 4 NG ARTIKULO 3 NG IKAAPAT NA BAHAGI NG COMPREHENSIVE AGREEMENT ON RESPECT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW o CARHRIHL! Isinasaad dito na ipinagbabawal ang desekrasyon o paglapastangan sa mga labi ng mga namatay sa proseso ng armadong labanan o habang nakabilanggo, at hindi pagtupad sa tungkuling kaagad na ibigay ang mga labi ng namatay sa kanilang pamilya o bigyan sila ng disenteng libing.

Tinatakot rin at sapilitang pinalikas ng mga berdugong militar ang mamamayan ng mga barangay Bolbok, Acle at ang karatig na Dao sa Tuy para sa kanilang pursuit operations. Pinuwersa rin ng 59th IBPA na maglunsad ng gawa-gawang rally laban sa NPA dahil sa banta nilang “reresbak” daw ang mga pwersa ng NPA sa komunidad. Sa haba na ng pakikibaka ng NPA at rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa probinsya sa pamumuno ng Communist Party of the Philippines, malinaw sa isip at diwa ng masang Batangueño na hindi ganoon ang NPA, na kanilang tunay na hukbo at tanging masasaligan sa pagsusulong ng kanilang interes at kapakanan. Malayong-malayo ito sa kasinungalingang ipinipinta ng 59th IBPA na mga pusakal na kriminal at tagapagtanggol ng mga naghaharing-uri sa probinsya at buong bansa.

Makakaasa ang mamamayan sa NPA-Batangas na aabutin ng mahabang kamay ng rebolusyonaryong hustisya ang mga kapural sa pagkamatay ng mga mahal na kasama, at sa lahat ng kaapihang dinaranas ng mamamayang Batangueño!

Hustisya para sa Bolbok 3! Dakilain sina Ka George, Ka Alex at Ka Reb!
Kabataan, lumahok sa Digmang Bayan!
Sumapi sa NPA!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/hindi-pagmamalasakit-kundi-kalapastanganan-sa-katawan-ng-tatlong-pulang-mandirigma-ng-npa-batangas-ang-ginawa-ng-59th-ibpa-at-pnp-hinding-hindi-malilinis-ang-duguang-kamay-ng-pasista-teroristang-arma/

CPP/CIO: Denounce US-initiated Japan-Philippine military access agreement

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 8, 2024): Denounce US-initiated Japan-Philippine military access agreement

 

This article is available in Pilipino

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

July 08, 2024

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) joins the various patriotic and democratic sectors in denouncing the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that is scheduled to be signed today by representatives of Japan and the Marcos government, at the behest of the interventionist US imperialist government.

The RAA, similar to the notorious US-Philippines Visiting Forces Agreement, will pave the way for Japanese military forces to establish their presence in the country as part of the plan to deploy overseas troops, preposition their vessels, conduct war exercises and preparations, and bind the Philippines more tightly to the US-led military alliances. Through the RAA, Marcos is allowing Japan to heighten its intervention in the Philippines in exchange for the transfer of military equipment, as well as promises of investments and loans, which only means deepening the country’s dependence on foreign capital.

The RAA is being signed in the context of intensified overseas military operations of Japan within the framework of the US-led Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and increasing role in war exercises and preparations. It aims to increase the part of Japanese military forces in the current US geopolitical strategy, as elaborated in the US Indo-Pacific Strategy, which aims to contain and counter the growth of China’s economic and military power and influence. The RAA, in particular, will allow Japan to use the Philippines to expand its reach and influence, at the behest of the US military.

On US goading over the past years, Japan has been strengthening and expanding its so-called self-defense force (SDF) as a belligerent force, long prohibited under the Japanese constitution. The US has been putting pressure on Japan to increase its military spending to 2% (from 1%) of its GDP to “share the burden” of “deterring Chinese aggression.”

Since its defeat at the end of World War II, Japan has served as a junior imperialist power of the US. In pushing Japan to increase its military strength, the US is making the calculated risk of emboldening the expansionist aspirations of Japanese monopoly capitalists.

In signing the RAA with Japan, the Marcos regime will further tie the country to the US-led imperialist jingoist alliance, and shackle the Philippines more firmly to the military and economic interests of the US and Japan. It will further erode the country’s capacity to independently assert its own interests and aspirations.

By signing the RAA, Marcos will pave the way for the return to the Philippines of the military forces of imperialist Japan, which has never fully acknowledged and rectified the crimes perpetrated by its soldiers who occupied the country in 1942-1945, including the rape of thousand of Filipino comfort women.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/denounce-us-initiated-japan-philippine-military-access-agreement/

CPP/NPA-Masbate Bicol ROC: Hustisya para sa mga kabataang sina Ronel at Robert Monsanto: Kabataan, sumapi sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 11, 2024): Hustisya para sa mga kabataang sina Ronel at Robert Monsanto: Kabataan, sumapi sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan! (Justice for youth Ronel and Robert Monsanto: Youth, join the New People's Army!)

 


Luz del Mar

Spokesperson | NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)

New People's Army

July 11, 2024

Pinagkaitan ni Marcos at ng 2nd Infantry Battalion – Phil. Army ng kinabukasan ang mga kabataang magsasaka at magkapatid na sina Ronel Monsanto, 22 anyos at Robert Monsanto, 18 anyos sa kanilang lugar sa So. Laray, Barangay Aguho, bayan ng Esperanza noong Hulyo 8.

Nagpapastol ng alagang hayop ang magkapatid nang madaanan at mapagdiskitahan ng mga sabog-sa-drogang militar. Dinala ang mga biktima sa Barangay San Roque ng parehong bayan at pinalabas na mga NPA na napatay sa engkwentro.

Nakikidalamhati ang Jose Rapsing Command – Bagong Hukbong Bayan Masbate (JRC – BHB Masbate) sa pamilya’t mga kaanak ng magkapatid na Monsanto, laluna sa kanilang mga magulang. Tiyak na makakasama ninyo ang JRC – BHB Masbate sa laban para sa hustisya.

Tulad nila Ronel at Robert, marami pang kabataan ang nanganganib na mapagkaitan ng kinabukasan sa ilalim ng nagpapatuloy na paghaharing militar sa prubinsya.
Dapat na mabatid ng mga Masbatenyo ang kahayupang ito ng militar sa harap ng malawakang kampanya ng pagrerekrut sa mga kabataan na mag-Army. Sa likod ng mga palabas na pa-liga, ROTC, leadership training at iba pang pakana para linlangin ang kabataan na sumapi sa AFP ay ang katotohanang walang pinipiling biktima ang terorismo ng militar.

Sa pagpaslang kina Ronel at Robert, lalong nagiging malinaw para sa mga kapwa nila kabataang Masbatenyo na wasto at kailangang humawak ng armas. Para sa hustisya, lalo silang nahihikayat na lumahok sa rebolusyonaryong armadong pakikibaka at sumapi sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan.

Nananawagan ang Jose Rapsing Command – BHB Masbate sa mga kabataang Masbatenyo: Para kina Ronel at Robert at sa marami pang kabataang biktima ng abusong militar, sumapi sa NPA! Para sa buhay, katarungan, karapatan at kinabukasan, sumapi sa NPA!

Kaugnay nito, inaatasan ng pamprubinsyang kumand sa operasyon ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan – Masbate ang lahat ng mga yunit ng NPA na ibuhos lahat ng pagsisikap para sa nagpapatuloy na kampanya ng rebolusyonaryong hustisya para sa lahat ng biktima ng abusong militar sa prubinsya. Kabahagi nito ay ang paglulunsad ng mga taktikal na opensiba upang pagbayarin ang AFP-PNP-CAFGU sa kanilang mga krimen. Kasabay nito, nararapat na maglunsad ang kada yunit ng Hukbo ng mga kampanya para sa pagrerekluta sa mga kabataan na sumapi sa BHB.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/hustisya-para-sa-mga-kabataang-sina-ronel-at-robert-monsanto-kabataan-sumapi-sa-bagong-hukbong-bayan/

CPP/NPA-Central Luzon ROC: Isang mahusay na Kumander at Kadre Pulitiko-Militar//Itanghal ang pinakamataas na pagdakila at pagpupugay kay Harold “Ka India/Luzon” Meñosa!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 11, 2024): Isang mahusay na Kumander at Kadre Pulitiko-Militar//Itanghal ang pinakamataas na pagdakila at pagpupugay kay Harold “Ka India/Luzon” Meñosa! (A great Politico-Military Commander and Cadre//Present the highest honor and tribute to Harold “Ka India/Luzon” Meñosa!)

 


Central Luzon Regional Operational Command (Josepino Corpuz Command)

New People's Army

July 11, 2024

Iginagawad natin ang pinakamataas na pagdakila at pagpupugay sa katatagan, katapangan, kahusayan at kagitingan na ipinamalas ng Pulang Kumander ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan na si Harold “Ka India/Luzon” Meñosa.



Kasing tatag at liksi ng kaniyang pisikal na pangangatawan ang kaniyang ipinamalas na dalawang dekadang pagtatalaga ng sarili, tiwala at katapatan sa Hukbo, Partido at masang kaniyang pinaglingkuran sa kabundukan at laylayan ng Sierra Madre, Caraballo sa East Pangasinan hanggang Nueva Vizcaya-Quirino.

Isa si Ka Luzon sa sampung magigiting na Hukbo at kadre ng Partido na walang pag-aalinlangang sinagupa ang mga pasistang militar hanggang maglaan ng pinakamataas na pagsasakripisyo ng pag-aalay ng buhay. Kasama siya sa Pantabangan 10, ang madugong engkwentro na naganap sa Barangay Malbang, Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija nuong ika-26 ng Hunyo. Gamit ng tuta na AFP/PNP ang armas at teknolohiya ng Estados Unidos at ng mga sundalong Kano na may kampo sa loob ng kalapit na Fort Magsaysay, labas-masok sa APECO at sa mag-iisang buwan nang nakadaong na barko sa Baler.

Isinilang sa bayan ng San Luis, Aurora si Ka Luzon sa pamilya ng maralitang magsasaka na hitik sa rebolusyonaryong pamana. Sa panahon ng kanyang murang edad ay nakakasalamuha na ang mga Hukbong naka-erya sa kanilang lugar, lalu na at dalawa sa kaniyang nakatatandang kamag-anak ay kumikilos at pinaslang pa nga ng kaaway. Maagang namulat sa marahas na tunggalian ng mga uri, sa naranasang pagsasamantala at pang-aapi sa kanila ng mga naghaharing uri at pasistang estado. Bagay na sa murang edad ay mapapanday ang kahandaang mag-alay ng buhay sa marahas na rebolusyonaryong pakikipagtunggali sa mga kaaway ng sambayanan.

Aktibo siya sa binuong grupo ng mga kabataan sa kanilang baryo na kabilang sa gawain ay suportang-kombat sa pagpinsala sa kaaway. Isa sa matampok na pinangunahan nila ay ang pagsira sa trak ng pasistang militar. Unang pumasok sa yunit ng BHB si Ka Luzon noong July 2001, bitbit ang kanyang masigasig na kapasyahang tahakin ang mas mataas pang porma ng pakikibaka bilang Pulang Mandirigma. Ngunit dahil labimpitong taong gulang (edad 17) pa lamang noon, pansamantalang ipinagpaliban ang pagtanggap sa kanyang pagpapahayag. August 2001, pagtuntong nya ng labinwalong taong gulang (edad 18) ay pormal nang tinanggap ang kanyang walang pagdadalawang isip na pasyang sumampa sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan. Taong 2002 ay maitatalaga siya sa Panrehiyong Yunit Seguridad (RYS) kung saan Medic ang una niyang naging tungkulin. Agad din siyang nakaranas ng mga pag-aaral pampartido at mga pagsasanay militar.

Siya ay nakakitaan agad ng potensyal bilang kadre ng Partido at ng Hukbo. Kapwa pulitiko-militar ang ginagampanang tungkulin. Makalipas ang isang taon pa lamang ay tumayong Iswad Lider at nahirang sa KT ng Sangay ng Platun. Naririyan na habang Pangalawang Platun Lider ay gumagampan ding Pulitikal Instruktor dito. Aktibong nasabak agad sa mga magkakasunod na taktikal na opensiba at ilang depensibang labanan. Mahigpit niyang tangan ang bakal na disiplina ng Hukbo at aktibong namuna sa mga maling estilo ng pamumuno laluna sa mapanghamon na mga pagkakataon nang internal na suliranin at kalagayan. Isinasabuhay lagi ang sinumpaan sa Partido na, “… buong katapatang pupunahin ang mga kamalian at kahinaan ko at ng aking mga kasama upang mapabuti ang paggawa at estilo ng paggawa…”, at nanindigan na manatili sa gabay ng pamumuno ng Partido at Hukbo upang mabuo ang pagkakaisa at lakas. Isa siya sa matatag na nagpuna, nagwasto at nanindigan sa kabila ng pagbitiw sa tungkulin ng mga nasa unang hanay na mga kadre. Bilang isa sa mga batang kasapi ng Partido ay maaga siyang nasubok at nagpamalas ng husay at tining nang umako ng mabigat na tungkulin ng konsolidasyon at pagpapalakas ng Partido at Hukbo.

Matampok sa kanyang paggampan ang masinop na pagtupad sa gawain, pagpapahalaga sa kolektibong pamumuno, sistemang komite, kahalagahan ng komand at kontrol, bakal na disiplina sa Hukbo at kapangahasan pero maingat at matalinong nagpaplano upang maging matagumpay ang anumang aksyong militar. Sa edad niyang dalawampu (20) ay itinalaga siyang Platun Lider ng isang seksyon ng isang yunit ng Hukbo sa coastal ng Aurora na ang misyon ay gawaing masa at nyutralisasyon sa mga pinag-aaralan at malalabong indibidwal na nasa saklaw ng larangang gerilya. Dulot ng kabaguhan at pagiging mapusok ay pinuna sa mga naging labis na pakikitungo sa bihag. Na agad namang inako at mapagkumbabang nagpuna pati ang mga kasama sa yunit na pinamunuan niya.

Taong 2007, muling nasubok at naipamalas ni Ka Luzon ang pagiging kumander na pulitiko-militar ng palargahin naman sila pa-Norte ng Aurora na siya muli ang Platun kumander. Bitbit ang mataas na moral at baong mga aral ay matatag niyang tinalunton ang misyon ng platun para sa pamilyarisasyon sa erya, gawaing masa at kung kaya na pakatan ang kaaway. Nakapanaig sila na makairal sa erya ng tatlong buwan sa kabila ng maigting na kilos ng kaaway. Binuno ni Ka Luzon ang pagpapanday ng sarili sa gawaing pulitiko militar. Saanman sa kabundukan hanggang laylayan at tabing karagatan ng Aurora ay mahahalaga ang mga naging papel niya sa pangunguna sa gawaing masa, pagkabisa sa tereyn, gawaing paniktik, pag-aaral sa kilos ng kaaway at pagbira o pagpapahina sa kanila.

Sa taong 2009-2011, walang pagdadalawang-isip niyang tinanganan ang tungkulin na mula Sierra Madre ay tumawid sa Caraballo. Ang maagang pagkakapanday ng sarili ay naging matatag na pundasyon para sa pagsuong sa patuloy na nag-iibayong mapanghamon na tumataas na antas ng rebolusyonaryong digmang bayan. Sa panahong nagpapatupad na ang kaaway na walang puknat na lakas-kumpanyang operasyon ay mahusay na naimamaniobra ni Ka Luzon ang hukbo sa Caraballo, malaking papel ang ginampanan ng organisado at mulat na pagmamahal at pagtataguyod ng mga masa at mga pwersa sa baryo. Nakabutas ng mga bagong ruta at bumasag sa maling pagtingin na “ayaw ng magpa-organisa ng masa”.

Nagmarka ang kaniyang pangalan sa mga masa at pwersa na “Ka Luzon” hindi lang dahil sa matining at mahusay niyang rekord sa mga misyong militar na puminsala sa dalawang detatsment sa East Pangasinan, pamamarusa sa mga mga masasmang elemento sa baryo at kaaway sa uri at pagpinsala sa mga operasyong militar ng mga kaaway sa Sierra Madre, Caraballo, hanggang Nueva Vizcaya. Kundi dahil din sa palagi’t laging may ngiti at matiyaga niyang paglilinaw na ang pagtatagumpay ng Demokratikong Rebolusyong Bayan ay sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaisa ng mga api’t pinagsasamantalahan, at sa pagdurog sa Imperyalismo, Burukrata Kapitalismo at Pyudalismo.

May mga pagkakataong nagiging liberal ang kasama. Naging matampok ito sa kalagitnaan ng kanyang pagtangan sa tungkulin bilang Pangalawang Platun Lider ng binuong bagong yunit gerilya taong 2011. Nahihirapan siya sa mahahaba at magaspang na tunggalian kaya’t ang tendensya ay hindi na aktibong nakapaghahapag ng kanyang punto. Umaabot pa na maging pasibo sa mga pagkakataong sa tingin niya ay magagawa na naman ng mas mahuhusay sa kanya. Higit ang kanyang sigla sa pamumuno at pagsusulong ng mga gawain kung masigla at buhay ang kolektibong pamumuno. Sa ganitong kalagayan siya nakarerekober. Lagi namang nakaagapay sa kanya ang mga kasama at ang nagmamahal niyang asawa na si Ka Lunti na kasama niyang nag-alay ng buhay sa naganap na engkwentro sa Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija.

Napakabrutal at berdugo ng pasistang militar! Hindi nakaligtas sa terorismo at pasismo ng kaaway ang kanyang mga mahal sa buhay sa Bayan ng San Luis, Aurora. Pambabanta, pananakot at surbeylans ang walang-puknat na ginagawa sa kanyang mga magulang para lamang pasukuin siya. Hanggang sa dukutin at hindi na muling ilitaw ang kanyang pinakamamahal na Tatay na si Deodicto Meñosa noong Marso 2019.

Ginamit pa ng Municipal LGU-NTF ELCAC ang kanyang burol sa kanilang bahay sa San Luis, Aurora upang palabasin na sila ang tunay na may malasakit sa pamilyang nagdadalamhati. Mula nang maiburol ng June 29 hanggang sa libing ni Ka Luzon nuong July 4 ay hindi tinantanan ng halos isang iskwad na mga militar ang kanyang pamilya at bantay-sarado ang mga makikilamay, kahit pa pinagtatabuyan na at pinagmumura ng kaniyang pinakamamahal na Nanay. Inabot pa nga na walang gustong makilamay kahit mga kapitbahay.

Sinubok man nito ang kanyang katatagan hanggang sa sangandaan ng kanyang buhay. Sa kaniyang pagbabalik sa pormasyong riple ng Hukbo sa taong ito, hanggang sa kahuli-hulihang buhay ni Ka Luzon ay pinili niya na tahakin muli ang daan ng kabundukan at laylayan ng Sierra Madre, sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan, sa piling ng mga masang kaniyang sinumpaang paglingkuran. Hindi niya maitanggi ang marahas na tunggalian ng mga uri at ang pangangailangan ng dahas para wakasan ito.

Si Ka Luzon na sa murang edad ng kanyang kabataan na nagpasyang baybayin ang Sierra Madre hanggang Caraballo, napanday sa buhay at kamatayang paglilingkod sa masa ng sambayanan at rebolusyon ay dakilang huwaran. Ang kanyang dakila at magiting na pamana ay nararapat nating panatilihing buhay sa bawat isa sa atin sa araw-araw. Itanghal natin siya sa bantayog ng mga bayani ng kasaysayan. Sa walang sawang pagtahak ng landas niyang pinag-ambagan ng kanyang buhay, sa paghahawan ng lipunang malaya, makatarungan at wala ng pang-aapi at pagsasamantala. Buhay na kaniyang inialay para makapag-ambag sa ikatatagumpay ng Digmang Bayan!

Pinakamataas na pagpupugay at pagdakila kay Ka Luzon!

Pulang saludo sa mga martir at bayani na Pantabangan 10!

Mabuhay ang CPP(MLM)/NPA/NDFP!

Mabuhay ang Sambayanan!

Mabuhay ang Rebolusyong Pilipino!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/itanghal-ang-pinakamataas-na-pagdakila-at-pagpupugay-kay-harold-ka-india-luzon-menosa/

CPP/NDF-IIO: Japan-PH military pact is another step in US imperialism’s march towards war

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 8, 2024): Japan-PH military pact is another step in US imperialism’s march towards war

 


International Information Office

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

July 08, 2024

The recently signed Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) betrays the victims of Japanese war crimes against the Filipino people during World War II and dangerously positions the country on the front lines of war . By allowing the deployment of Japanese soldiers on Philippine soil for so-called joint military exercises, the Marcos Jr. and Kishida administrations are shameless puppets in the elaborate war preparations orchestrated by the US in its march toward an armed confrontation with China.

The RAA with Japan comes at the heels of US overtures to strengthen military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region in its continuing ‘first island chain strategy’ to encircle China. The RAA with Japan allows Japanese military to freely enter and exit the Philippines for combat training including live-fire drills – akin to the lopsided Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) of the Philippines with the US government which the latter has been using to justify its provocative saber rattling against China.

According to both parties, the so-called defense pact is meant to help the Philippines defend its territory against an increasingly assertive China. Aside from trampling on Philippine sovereignty, the RAA risks further embroiling the Philippines in the middle of a potential hot war, sacrificing Filipino lives and sovereignty on the altar of American imperialist ambitions.

The wounds of the brutal Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II run deep, marked by unspeakable atrocities and brutality against the Filipino people. Around 1,000 Filipinas some as young as 12 years old, were enslaved and turned into ‘comfort women’ during the war. Japanese soldiers killed an estimated 527,000 Filipinos until they were driven away by the Communist Party-led Hukbo ng Bayan Laban sa Hapon (Hukbalahap), ending Japan’s three-year military occupation of the country. Marcos Jr.’s military pact with Japan represents a profound betrayal of war crime victims who continue to cry for justice until today.

The Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement marks a dangerous precedent, undermining prospects for a peaceful resolution of territorial conflicts in the region while stoking the flames of war. The path to lasting peace lies not in the buildup of military personnel and materiel that serve US war designs against China.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/japan-ph-military-pact-is-another-step-in-us-imperialisms-march-towards-war/

Japan reflects on defense forces works in region as RAA nears signing

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2024): Japan reflects on defense forces works in region as RAA nears signing (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – The Japanese Embassy in Manila reflected on the contributions of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) in the Philippines and the region, from boosting peace and security to its humanitarian works, including during the 2013 Typhoon Yolanda.

“Seventy years ago, Japan's Self-Defense Forces was established with a solemn oath, vowing to never repeat the tragedies of the past and to serve as a force for peace and independence of the country,” Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuya Endo said at the 70th JSDF anniversary reception in Makati City.

“Over the course of their service, the JSDF has effectively solidified their role as a key stabilizer in the region.”

He cited the JSDF’s active participation in peacekeeping operations in Timor Leste and South Sudan, as well as its counter-piracy efforts that helped safeguard maritime routes for trade.

“Beyond its role in defense, the JSDF has also served as a lifesaver, evolving to encompass humanitarian assistance and disaster relief – a leading example was set during the Typhoon Yolanda in 2013,” he said.

After the onslaught of Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Philippines, the JSDF extended a prompt and efficient response, bringing much-needed relief to the typhoon victims.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense and the JSDF at that time deployed 1,180 personnel, three vessels, and 16 aircraft for medical assistance and relief supplies in the affected areas.

“Reflecting on the JSDF’s past achievements and present commitments, we envision a future where JSDF forges ahead as a pillar of stability and a beacon of peace in the region,” Endo said.

As negotiations for the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) nears conclusion, Endo said he looked forward to a closer security collaboration between Manila and Tokyo.

The Philippines is hoping the RAA would be signed at the 2+2 foreign and defense ministerial meeting on July 8.

“We look forward to the early conclusion of the RAA negotiations and expects to see further progress in promoting exchanges between the JSDF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Endo said.

He did not elaborate but said the negotiation is “now close to conclusion.”

“Once concluded, the RAA will facilitate mutual visits between our forces to further promote our security cooperation,” he added.

The envoy noted that tensions in the South China and East China Seas create a “volatile environment” in the region.

Concerns, he said, also remain over North Korea's “provocative military posture,” Myanmar’s deteriorating situation, and the critical need to maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait.

“In this context, the Philippines’ role in maintaining regional stability and security is undoubtedly important,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228346

Brawner orders use of PH flag patches in AFP uniforms

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2024): Brawner orders use of PH flag patches in AFP uniforms (By Priam Nepomuceno)

'RAISE OUR FLAG'. A soldier demonstrates how to properly put a Philippine flag patch on a military uniform in this undated photo. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Thursday (July 4, 2024) that he had ordered the inclusion of the Philippine flag patch in battle dress uniforms of Filipino soldiers to highlight the military's role in upholding the country's sovereign rights and territorial integrity. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has ordered the inclusion of Philippine flag patches in battle dress uniforms of Filipino soldiers to highlight the military's role in upholding the country's sovereign rights and territorial integrity.

In a statement Thursday night, Brawner said this initiative aims to reinforce patriotism and solidarity as a visible reminder of the AFP's commitment to upholding Philippine sovereign rights and territorial integrity.

"As chief of staff, I have authorized all members of the AFP to wear our flag on our right arm," he said.

Formerly, Philippine flag patches are only worn by AFP personnel when conducting exercises with foreign military counterparts, such as the "Balikatan," and when abroad.

"This aligns with the broader efforts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to foster national pride and unity among Filipinos," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said.

Meanwhile, the AFP also launched the "Mulat" communication plan for the West Philippine Sea that aims to fight misinformation on the issue.

Brawner said "Mulat," which means "awakened” in Filipino, seeks to bolster transparency, counter disinformation, and enhance public awareness regarding the Philippines' rights and interests in the region.

He noted that by enhancing public awareness and rallying patriotic sentiment, the plan would unite Filipinos in advocating for the nation’s interests and contributing to a more resilient Philippines.

The main point of the Communication Plan is the theme "Our Seas, Our Rights, Our Future," reflecting the AFP's commitment to engaging all stakeholders in defending and preserving Philippine waters.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228350

PH troops to 'respond appropriately' vs. another WPS harassment

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2024): PH troops to 'respond appropriately' vs. another WPS harassment (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (PNA file photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Filipino troops will "respond appropriately" in case of a repeat of the recent incident in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) where China Coast Guard (CCG) personnel harassed a Philippine rotation and resupply (RORE) contingent, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Thursday.

"Under the Rules of Engagement (ROE), a person has the right to defend himself in any manner. Pero meron po tayong steps na sinusunod sa (but we have steps to follow under the) ROE. So, for instance, meron pong umatake sa akin, ang gagawin po natin is (should someone attack, what we will do is) that we will apply the same level of force that would allow us to defend ourselves," he said during an interview shortly after the first-semester command conference with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Brawner said this means that if Filipino troops are attacked with knives, they will use similar weapons to defend themselves.

"Hindi po yung lalabis. That's the concept of proportionality. So hindi po natin siya babarilin (We will not resort to excessive use of force. That's the concept of proportionality. So we will not shoot them)," he added.

The AFP chief also said Filipino troops would never allow themselves to be bullied and would continue fulfilling their mandate in compliance with the law.

During the June 17 incident, Filipino troops were seen being threatened by knives and other pointed weapons by CCG personnel to disrupt their resupply mission to the Philippine naval vessel BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57) in the Ayungin Shoal.

Aside from threatening AFP personnel, the Chinese also looted and damaged Philippine rigid hull inflatable boats used in the mission.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228351

PBBM calls on AFP troops to ensure peaceful 2025 BARMM polls

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2024): PBBM calls on AFP troops to ensure peaceful 2025 BARMM polls (By Filane Mikee Cervantes)

PEACEFUL POLLS. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. calls on troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to ensure the holding of peaceful elections for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament next year, during his visit to the headquarters of the 11th Infantry Division in Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu on Friday (July 6, 2024). Marcos said the AFP should ensure that terrorism and political violence do not interfere with the political exercise. (Photo courtesy of President Marcos' official Facebook page)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Sulu to ensure the holding of peaceful elections for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament next year.

Marcos made the call during his visit to the headquarters of the 11th Infantry Division (ID) in Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu on Friday.

“Kailangan natin magkaroon ng peaceful na election sa darating na halalan (We must hold a peaceful election [next year]),” he was quoted as saying in a Presidential Communications Office (PCO) news release. “Napakahalaga dahil kailangan nating masabi na nahalal itong mga members of the parliament… nang tama (It's important that we make sure that members of the parliament are elected the right way)."

Marcos said the AFP should ensure that terrorism and political violence do not interfere with the political exercise.

“Walang terrorism, walang political violence. Basta’t minimized natin lahat ‘yan (There should be no terrorism or political violence. Those should be minimized)," he said.

This will be the first time for the country to conduct parliamentary elections for the BARMM, which will coincide with the midterm legislative elections on May 12, 2025.

Marcos reminded the uniformed personnel that elections must be won in peace.

“Let us not sit on our laurels kung baga (so to speak). Let us not become complacent because these are challenges that we will have to manage,” he said.

The President emphasized that peace in Mindanao is a priority of the government.

“That is all in the interest of peace. We do this because we want peace to continue in this area, in the southern Philippines. We do not want to see the kind of fighting that we saw many decades ago," he said.

He hailed government forces in Mindanao for successfully reducing the threat posed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and other enemies of the state in the province.

“I have to congratulate all of you who have worked to achieve this success, who have worked very hard and have made many sacrifices so that we can now say that the capabilities of the main threat, which is the ASG, have been severely reduced,” he said.

As the Commander-in-Chief, the President said he was briefed by the military command in Sulu on the constant drop in the insurgents’ capabilities, manpower, and number of firearms.

“Ang assessment na nga ay ‘yung threat (The assessment is that the threat) is only from individual actors. Wala na silang units na gumagalaw (They don't have any units acting) as a unit. They are… basically (neutralized)… We have dismantled their machinery for causing, for bringing terror,” he added.

Marcos was also informed about the diminishing threat posed by other terrorist groups.

“We also spoke briefly about the continuing threat of outside terrorist groups coming in, ‘yung mga Al-Qaeda-inspired, ‘yung mga ISIS-inspired na dating nakikita nating pumapasok dito ay mukha namang hindi na… tayo masyadong nate-threaten tungkol sa ganyang klase (the Al-Qaeda-inspired and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant or ISIS-inspired groups that we saw enter here, they don't appear to be a threat anymore to us),” he said.

Marcos, meanwhile, highlighted the AFP’s shift to external defense amid the emerging regional threats, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

He said the goal of creating a task force with a maritime force and the Navy is to beef up the Philippine Coast Guard’s presence and police the area.

“Ito ‘yung mga gagawin natin para maging mas secure tayo, lalung-lalo na dito sa area ninyo dahil (These are the steps we are taking to keep us secure, especially in your area because) I’m sure that there are many, many instances na mayroon tayong report na mga dumadaan na barko (that we received reports of passing ships),” Marcos told the troops.

“So, we just have to keep vigilant and to continue to watch what is going on and to make sure that namo-monitor natin lahat ng nangyayari (we are monitoring everything that is happening).”

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228422

PCG has concrete evidence vs. China in West Philippine Sea conflict

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 6, 2024): PCG has concrete evidence vs. China in West Philippine Sea conflict (By Ferdinand Patinio)

National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City on July 6, 2024 (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continues to document the illegal movements of China, according to National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela.

Tarriela said they are ready to provide pieces of evidence once needed.

“With regard to the transparency efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard, we are documenting the aggression and the illegal presence of the Chinese government in the West Philippine Sea,” he said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.

He said the PCG is leaving it up to the legal experts on to what to do next.

“We are not the legal authority as to how the Department of Justice or the Office of the Solicitor General will make use of our report. We only document the actual incidents that happened and we have tremendous trust in our legal luminaries,” Tarriela said.

He said China’s strategies can no longer be considered just gray zone tactics, or below military armed conflict.

“Ang tawag na natin dito (We call these) illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive action of Chinese government. We just call them as outright illegal activities,” he said.

“It has been very obvious. Ang ginagawa nila ay (What they do are) violations of the international law, coercion, deception and basically, harassment in deploying of their vessels illegally,” he added.

On Thursday, the Chinese government said it would not pay PHP60 million for the damage and losses its coast guard supposedly inflicted on Philippine Navy assets during an encounter near Ayungin Shoal on June 17.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in announcing Beijing’s response, repeated its claims over the waters, which is well within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

The latest China aggression happened during the routine resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre.

A Filipino soldier lost his right thumb while the Armed Forces of the Philippines said the Chinese looted their guns and damaged the boats and its navigational and communication equipment.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228440

WPS issue, UNCLOS ruling in DepEd curriculum pushed

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 7, 2024): WPS issue, UNCLOS ruling in DepEd curriculum pushed (By Zaldy De Layola)

TRESPASSER. One of several Chinese vessels photographed by the Western Command loitering around Ayungin Shoal in this Dec. 14, 2023 photo. A legislator is pushing for the inclusion of the West Philippine Sea issue in the Department of Education curriculum. (Photo courtesy of Wescom)

MANILA – A party-list legislator on Sunday recommended to incoming Education secretary, Senator Sonny Angara, to include in the national history curriculum the territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) arbitral ruling.

Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Party-List Rep. Margarita Nograles said the topics will provide students with a deeper understanding of the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia and the importance of upholding the rule of law in international relations.

"Educating our youth about the significant issues surrounding our territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea is crucial for fostering a well-informed citizenry and cultivating a sense of national pride and responsibility," she explained.

Filipino students must be taught comprehensively about the UNCLOS 2016 arbitral ruling, she said, adding that it is a pivotal moment that affirmed the country’s sovereign rights over territories that are being claimed by China.

"Our young Filipinos should be aware of the legal and historical context of our territorial claims to better appreciate the efforts of our government and diplomats in defending our sovereignty," she added.

Meanwhile, she expressed her full support for the appointment of Angara as the new head of the Department of Education.

"Senator Angara’s extensive experience in public service, his advocacy for education, and his proven leadership make him exceptionally qualified for this role. I am confident that under his stewardship, our educational system will continue to advance and address the evolving needs of our nation," Nograles said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228457

PAF contingent in Australia for 'Pitch Black' drills

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2024): PAF contingent in Australia for 'Pitch Black' drills (By Priam Nepomuceno)

READY FOR 'PITCH BLACK'. A C-295 aircraft of the Philippine Air Force carrying essential equipment and operational cargo arrives at the Royal Australia Air Force Base in Darwin, Australia on Sunday (July 7, 2024). The PAF's contingent will participate in the "Pitch Black" exercises, and will incorporate various tactical flying and large-scale operational collective training activities. (Photo courtesy of PAF)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has deployed an initial contingent to participate in the "Pitch Black" exercises hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) scheduled from July 12 to Aug. 2.

In a statement Monday, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the contingent as well as "essential equipment and operational cargo" arrived in Australia's northern city of Darwin on Sunday.

"The PAF contingent was ferried from the Philippines to Darwin via the RAAF KC-30 aircraft. The crucial equipment and operational cargo were transported by the RAAF C-130 and PAF C-295 aircraft, ensuring the seamless arrival of all necessary assets for the exercise. The main contingent will fly to Darwin a few days from now, prior to the official start of the exercise," she added.

"Pitch Black 2024" is a major biennial Australian and international military exercise, renowned for its large-scale, multinational large force employment. This year, it features participation from 20 nations, including the Philippines.

The three-week exercise will incorporate various tactical flying and large-scale operational collective training activities.

"The exercise will emphasize Offensive Counter Air and Air Interdiction operations in a multi-national coalition environment," Castillo said.

A notable highlight of this year’s exercise is the participation of PAF FA-50 fighter jets.

Castillo said this marks the first time the Philippines would deploy air assets to participate in an international exercise outside of the country, making it a monumental event in the history of the PAF.

"The participation of the Philippine Air Force in Exercise Pitch Black 2024 is a pivotal opportunity to enhance our operational capabilities, strengthen international partnerships, and reinforce our commitment to regional security and stability. Our involvement in this exercise is crucial to advancing our readiness, interoperability, and professionalism as an Air Force," she added.

Castillo said the PAF contingent is prepared to engage in various tactical and strategic operations, contributing to the overall success of "Pitch Black".

She added that the experience gained from this exercise would further the PAF's mission of ensuring the defense and security of the nation and contributing to regional peace and security.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228472

PH, Japan seal defense pact in Malacañang

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2024): PH, Japan seal defense pact in Malacañang (By Priam Nepomuceno and Darryl John Esguerra)

DEFENSE AGREEMENT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (standing, center) witnesses the signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan at Malacañan Palace on Monday (July 8, 2024). The new defense deal would facilitate mutual visits between Filipino and Japanese armed forces for training and joint exercises. (PNA photo by Darryl John Esguerra)

MANILA – The Philippines and Japan on Monday signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that would facilitate mutual visits between Filipino and Japanese armed forces for training and joint exercises.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. signed the treaty documents in the presence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at Malacañan Palace.

The treaty will have to be ratified by the respective legislative bodies of the Philippines and Japan before it comes into force.

In a courtesy call by Kamikawa and Japan Defense Minister Kihara Minoru to the President, Marcos expressed elation over the signing of the new defense deal.

“Your presence here increases our confidence in the importance that the Japanese government puts on this very important agreement that we have. And I’m very glad that we have come to this day,” Marcos said.

For her part, Kamikawa said the signing of the RAA is “a great achievement” for the two countries deepening bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, Kihara touted the leadership of Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in strengthening the ties of the two countries.

He also vowed to continue working with Teodoro to further enhance the defense cooperation and exchanges of the Philippines and Japan.

The Philippines has been expanding engagements with its allies while also beefing up the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines amid China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

It has similar defense pacts with the United States and Australia, while another defense deal is being pursued with France.

Upgraded ties

Teodoro, meanwhile, said the partnership between the Philippines and Japan has been “upgraded one level higher", following the signing of the RAA.

"This is another milestone in our shared endeavor to ensure a rules-based international order to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and particularly in our region. Once again we thank the Government of Japan for the assistance rendered to us in several fields," Teodoro said during his bilateral meeting with Kihara held at the Shangri-la The Fort, Manila in Taguig City.

Teodoro said this landmark deal has added security to the “traditional fields” where Manila and Tokyo have strong ties, particularly economy and trade.

"By adding the vital aspect of security which creates a holistic dimension or adds a holistic dimension to our bilateral relations. It will also add to the multilateral efforts that both our governments are doing to make sure that our region, with respect to international law, we (worked) hand in hand in creating a global architecture which will ensure sustainable peace and stability particularly in our area," Teodoro said.

The DND chief said Manila is looking forward to more confidence-building measures between the Japanese Self-Defense Force and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with their respective defensive departments.

Meanwhile, Kihara extended his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome he had received from the Teodoro and the DND.

"The relationship between Japan and the Philippines has seen great strides in the field of defense cooperation and exchanges and I welcome the signature of the Japan-Philippines RAA which took place moments ago, representing the deepening cooperative relationship between our two nations," he added.

Kihara also noted the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations are situated in a very strategically important region placed in a key junction of Japan’s sea lanes.

No significant differences

In a press briefing after the 2 +2 meeting of Manila and Tokyo's top defense and foreign affairs officials at the Shangri-la The Fort Manila in Taguig City, Teodoro said the RAA has no significant differences with Philippines' Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with Australia and the United States.

"It is just tailored to conform to the requirements of the domestic law of each country, that is the only difference. In essence, everything remains the same," he added.

ALLIES. Top defense and foreign officials of the Philippines and Japan shake hands during their bilateral meeting at the Shangri-la The Fort Manila in Taguig City on Monday (July 8, 2024). Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (right) said the newly-signed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan would greatly enhance interoperability between their militaries. (PNA photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

Teodoro also said the "way forward" for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is to come up with mutually acceptable confidence-building measures "between and amongst themselves which will include greater training and interoperability exercises."

In his prepared statement, the DND chief said the signing of the RAA will put "flesh" into the already robust bilateral relations between the Philippines and Japan.

"It will be a great step towards the concretization of trusts and now comes the work of building confidence (among) the members of the JSDF (Japan Self-Defense Forces) and the AFP. it will also lead to greater interoperability, exchanges of information, and other cooperative activities both bilaterally and multilaterally under the aegis of a rules-based international order and the upholding of the essence, principles, and concepts of international law particularly, UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)," he added.

Through the RAA, the DND chief said the Philippines and Japan can further increase their partnership on humanitarian assistance and disaster response measures.

Meanwhile, the National Security Council welcomed the signing of the landmark pact.

"This agreement, achieved in less than a year of dedicated negotiations, underscores our shared commitment to enhancing regional security and defense cooperation. It will facilitate greater interoperability and mutual support between the AFP and the JSDF, bolstering our collective capacity to respond to common challenges," National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año said in a statement.

He added that the pact reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to upholding international law and promoting stability in the Asia-Pacific Region.

He added this agreement builds upon decades of collaboration and mutual respect, reflecting our shared values of democracy, rule of law, and respect for sovereignty.

Key partnership for peace

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri lauded the timely signing of the RAA, which he said will boost defense interoperability.

"It was in 2022 when then-Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko and I first discussed the possibility of pursuing a Reciprocal Access Agreement between our countries, and I brought this idea to President Marcos early into his administration," Zubiri said in a news release.

"I am very hopeful that it will be a key partnership for achieving peace in the region,” he added.

Zubiri said Japan is an "invaluable ally" to the Philippines and its assistance has been vital to the modernization of Coast Guard and Navy.

“With this RAA, we can further strengthen our capacity-building through joint military exercises," he said.

For his part, Senator Jinggoy Estrada said any strategic partnership that strengthens the country’s close security relationship with a regional partner “is an encouraging and welcome development.”

“Aside from joint military exercises, the RAA plays a crucial role in coordinating humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, given the frequent occurrence of natural disasters in the region requiring rapid and coordinated response efforts,” Estrada said in a statement.

As chair of the Committee on National Defense and Security, Estrada said he will see to it that the ratification of the RAA will be among the priority agenda of the Senate when Congress opens the 3rd Regular Session on July 22.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228478

97 MNLF forces undergo profiling for OPAPRU transformation drive

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 8, 2024): 97 MNLF forces undergo profiling for OPAPRU transformation drive (By Priam Nepomuceno)

TRANSFORMATION DRIVE. Members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) undergo socio-economic profiling in Lamitan, Basilan on July 4, 2024. The OPAPRU on Monday (July 8, 2024) said aims to complete the profiling of all the remaining MNLF combatants in the province who are among the target beneficiaries for the fiscal year 2023. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said 97 Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) combatants participated in the verification and socio-economic profiling process as part of its transformation program.

In a news release on Monday, the OPAPRU said the procedure was held in Lamitan, Basilan on July 4 as part of the MNLF Transformation Program through the agreed terms of the Government of the Philippines (GPH)-MNLF Management Committee.

The project is managed by the OPAPRU and is designed to uplift the socio-economic conditions of MNLF combatants, their families, and communities.

This is among the commitments made by the national government under the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the MNLF.

On Sept. 30, 2023, the OPAPRU launched the MNLF Transformation Program in Basilan wherein 460 combatants completed the validation, verification, and socio-economic profiling process.

The peace body aims to complete the profiling of all the remaining MNLF combatants in the province who are among the target beneficiaries for the fiscal year 2023.

In 2023, some 1,705 MNLF combatants were profiled in Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Cotabato City, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur and North Cotabato.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228502

Defense pact to lift restrictions on PH-Japan military exchanges

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2024): Defense pact to lift restrictions on PH-Japan military exchanges (By Priam Nepomuceno)

INCREASED EXCHANGES. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (left) and Japan Self-Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida, shake hands during their bilateral meeting in Shangri-La The Fort Manila in Taguig City on Monday (July 8, 2024). The two countries signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement, which would facilitate mutual visits between Filipino and Japanese armed forces for training and joint exercises. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

MANILA – The newly signed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) will lift restrictions on military exchanges between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).

In a statement Monday night, Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said the pact would allow the holding of "joint military exercises and disaster relief operations" both in the Philippines and Japan.

Before the signing of the RAA, Japanese troops could only participate in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions and act as observers in joint military exercises, such as the annual "Balikatan."

He added that the RAA with the Philippines is Japan's first with a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"The new bilateral defense agreement, which requires the concurrence of the Philippine Senate and ratification of Japan's Diet, aims to pave the way for joint military exercises, and closer defense and security relations," Andolong said.

In 2015, Japanese lawmakers passed a law enhancing the role of its troops, which had been restricted by its post-World War II Constitution.

This law allowed the JSDF to increase participation in international peacekeeping missions and defend its allies even when not under attack.

In a separate statement, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the RAA would greatly boost military relations between Manila and Tokyo.

"The RAA will pave the way for joint military exercises, closer defense cooperation, and robust security relations between our forces. This agreement exemplifies our shared commitment to uphold a rules-based international order and secure a peaceful and prosperous region," Brawner said.

‘Deepen security, maritime cooperation’

In a meeting with reporters on Monday night, Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Deputy Press Secretary Mariko Kaneko said the RAA allows the development of defense capabilities and promotion of interoperability between the JSDF and the AFP through bilateral and/or multilateral exercises, and cooperation on defense equipment and technology.

“Every time we need to have like the visa clearance or we need to ask for the use of facilities in the Philippines, these kind of procedures by having these RAA, will be streamlined and so that we can have more joint exercises to strengthen defense capabilities,” she said.

Kaneko noted that specific activities for such exercises would still need to be determined by both countries but it will not include the establishment of Japanese bases in the Philippines.

Citing that both countries face law enforcement and security challenges, she said Japan has decided to continue the cooperation on strengthening maritime and air domain awareness with the Philippines and further promote cooperation on cybersecurity and open, interoperable, secure, reliable, and trusted telecommunications networks, including Open Radio Access Network.

“Minister Yoko Kamikawa, she has said that Japan would further deepen security and maritime cooperation, including through the provision of coastal surveillance radar system under the Official Security Assistance, the strengthening of coordination among coast guards, and the provision of additional patrol vessels under Official Development Assistance,” she said.

Apart from economic and security partnerships, Japan will further promote bilateral trade and investment relations to help the Philippines achieve upper middle-income country status.

Kaneko said Kamikawa visited the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 to check its condition to know other forms of assistance Japan could provide for the development of the infrastructure.

Japan and the Philippines, she said, have decided to introduce measures on visa exemption arrangements for their diplomatic passport holders and continue to promote people-to-people and cultural exchange through tourism.

As for multilateral cooperation, Japan also affirmed the importance of strengthening trilateral cooperation with the United States to complement existing multilateral mechanisms and to uphold international peace and security.

“This will enhance the strategic cooperation among Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States and collaboration of the four countries in promoting the shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific through the conduct of the Maritime Cooperative Activity among the four armed or defense forces,” Kaneko said.

The RAA will also enhance the conduct of humanitarian activities and disaster relief operations between Japan and the Philippines, she added.

Crucial moment in PH-Japan ties

House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez, meanwhile, lauded the signing of the landmark agreement between the Philippines and Japan as a “crucial moment for enhanced defense cooperation” amid regional challenges.

“The signing of the RAA signifies a crucial moment in Philippine-Japan relations, heralding a new era of strengthened defense cooperation amid evolving regional geopolitical challenges,” Romualdez said in a statement.

He said the RAA highlights the two nations' "shared commitment" to regional stability and security, while also reaffirming the Philippines’ strategic partnership with Japan.

"This agreement reflects our shared values of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region," he said.

Romualdez said the defense agreement also underscores the Philippines' proactive approach to addressing security challenges and promoting a rules-based international order.

On Monday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the Philippine-Japan RAA in Malacañang Palace.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko signed the agreement after Marcos met with the Japanese officials and delegation. (with a report from Filane Mikee Cervantes and Ma. Teresa Montemayor/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228554