Gov’t, not communism is what people need in this time of crisis - Dino

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): Gov’t, not communism is what people need in this time of crisis - Dino (By Rachelle Nessia)

CEBU, Aug. 20 (PIA) -- Left-leaning groups are exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to attack the government from mismanagement to lockdown implementation, but a Cabinet official said the delivery of basic public services and programs must go unhampered even amid the health crisis as no time is more crucial than now when people need government the most.

Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino stressed the crisis should not be used to derail or slow down government works, but rather this is the time to move forward because people need government the most right now.

“We in government, we need to show that we are relevant to the people and that we care. We need to express that there is ‘malasakit' in the Duterte Administration. When we do that, we convey to the people that they need the government, and not communism,” said Dino during the recent Visayas Inter-Regional Task Force Convergence Meeting on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

Dino, appointed as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) in Central Visayas, said the decades-old problem of insurgency has hindered development in the countryside.

“We stand by our commitment to end local communist armed conflict by 2021,” emphasized Dino as gaps in basic government services in some areas of Negros Oriental are being poured by regional line agencies including health services, power, education and land distribution to qualified farmers.

Among the four provinces in the region, only the province of Negros Oriental has been tagged as a red area, or one that is plagued by the presence of armed rebels.

Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella, chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council 7, said 135 local government units (LGUs) in Central Visayas have declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), including its affiliate organizations, as persona non grata while 136 LGUs have formed their own task force on ELCAC.

In the Visayas, the manpower strength of the NPA shrunk by 10 percent with less than 1,700 members as of June 2020, reported the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command.

National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Jr., vice-chair of the National Task Force-ELCAC, told mayors and governors of the Visayas Region present during the virtual meeting to double their efforts and deliver their commitments to the vision of an insurgency-free Philippines by the time Pres. Duterte ends his term in 2022.

“We have to overcome and put an end to the enemy that will not bring good to our country,” said Esperon, reiterating Pres. Duterte’s order to address internal security through the whole-of-nation approach and bring development down to the countryside.

Esperon said the government will soon implement the Barangay Development Program (BDP) to pave for progress in insurgency-cleared barangays, with projects ranging from farm-to-market roads, health stations, schools, reforestation and livelihood opportunities to the residents in the areas.

Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado, in the same meeting, assured that ELCAC-related projects in line with the BDP will be given appropriate funding support by 2021, and that the budget will be given directly to the local government units to ensure projects are implemented without delay and on time. (fcr/pia7)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050874

Cebuano News: 12 ka mga NPA ubos sa GF Malayag misurender sa 88IB

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): Cebuano News: 12 ka mga NPA ubos sa GF Malayag misurender sa 88IB (By Bernadith G. Epan)

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Agosto 20 (PIA)-- Dose (12) ka mga kanhing miyembro sa New People's Army kon NPA ang boluntaryong misurender sa 88th Infantry "Maringal" Battalion Headquarters South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon sa may alas 10 sa kagabhion niadtong Agosto 24.

Ang nasangpit nga kanhing mga rebelde na-ila nga mga myembro sa Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC ubos sa ‘command’ ni alyas ‘Ricky’ nga nag-operate sa Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.

Uban sa gi-surender sa mga kanhing rebelde ang usa ka M16A1, duha ka Garand Rifle, tulo ka Carbine M1 Rifle, upat ka binuhat nga Shotgun, ug usa ka kalibre 45.

Sumala pa ni alyas Rolen usa ka babayeng Squad Supply Officer nga “Gutom ug kalisud ang among natagamtaman, nahadlok sad mi tungod sa pagkamatay sa among kauban atol sa engkwentro. Basin unya ug mapareha mi sa ila. Dili pa ko gusto nga mamatay tungod kay daghan pa ko’g gustong himuon sa akong kinabuhi kauban akong anak ug pamilya.”

Mahinumduman nga dunay nahitabong sunod-sunod nga engkwentro tali sa grupong Guerilla Front Malayag ug tropa sa kasundalohan sa lungsod sa San Fernando ug Cabanglasan sugod sa bulan sa Mayo hangtod sa katapusang adlaw sa Hulyo ning tuig nga miresulta sa pagkamatay ug pagkasamdan sa mga NPA, ug pagbungkag sa hideout sa teroristang grupo, nakuha ang daghang mga armas, mga materyales pang giyera, ug mga dokumento sa nahisgotang grupo sa mga terorista.

Gidayeg ni Lt Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer sa 88IB, ang boluntaryong pagsurender sa mga miyembro sa Guerilla Front Malayag. Matud niya nga unta mosurender nasad ang mga miyembro ni alyas ‘Migs’ ug iyang mga kauban.

“Alang sa tanang nagpabilin isip hulga sa kalinaw sa katawhan, dili kami mohunong sa pag-gukod sa mga komunista’ng terorista. Padayon ang pag-gukod sa kagamhanan niadtong mga naghimo ug kagubot. Dili kami mohunong hangtud dili makab-ot ug maangkon ang kalinaw sa Southern Bukidnon,” mipahimangno si Lt Col. Fabic. (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050883

Cebuano News: Dugang 3 ka mga NPA misurender sa 88IB human nadungog ang pag-surender sa mga kauban

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): Cebuano News: Dugang 3 ka mga NPA misurender sa 88IB human nadungog ang pag-surender sa mga kauban  (By Bernadith G. Epan)

MARAMAG, Bukidnon, Agosto 20 (PIA)—Laing tulo (3) pa ka mga miyembro sa New People's Army kon NPA ang boluntaryong misurender sa 88th Infantry "Maringal" Battalion Headquarters sa South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon human nadungog ang pag-surender sa ilang dose ka kauban niadtong Agosto 14.

Kining dugang 3 nga mi-surender mga miyembro sila sa Malayag 1, Guerilla Front Malayag, SRC2, NCMRC ubos sa ‘command’ ni alyas ‘Ricky’ nga nag-operate sa mga lugar sa Cabanglasan, Bukidnon

Uban sa gi-surender sa mga nasangpit nga rebelde ang usa ka Carbine M1 Rifle, duha ka binuhat nga Shotgun, ug usa ka ‘home-made pistol revolver’.

Matud pa ni alyas ‘Kuyaw’ usa ka regular member sa NPA nga grabe nga ka hadlok ang ilang gibati para sa ilang kinabuhi samtang naa sila sa lasang. Nahadlok sila nga mangamatay sa wa’y hinungdan nga pama-agi. Nakuyawan nasad daw sila kay daghan na ang nag-surender. Miingon siya nga mas maayo nalang daw ug mag-surender nalang pud sila.

Mahinumduman nga dunay nahitabong sunod-sunod nga engkwentro tali sa grupong Guerilla Front Malayag ug tropa sa kasundalohan sa lungsod San Fernando ug Cabanglasan gikan bulan sa Mayo hangtod sa Hulyo nga miresulta sa pagkamatay ug pagkasamdan sa mga NPA, ug pagkabungkag sa ‘hideout’ sa teroristang grupo.

Matud ni Lt Col. Franklin Fabic, Commanding Officer sa 88IB, nalipay siya nga nahibal-an nga daghan pa diay ang mga miyembro sa GF Malayag nga gusto nang mobalik sa sabakan sa balaod.

Tungod niini gi-awhag niya ang ubang mga miyembro nga mo-surender aron makabenepisyo sa nagkalain-laing programa sa gobyerno pinaagi sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Ang E-CLIP usa ka programa sa gobyerno alang sa mga kanhi rebelde ug sakop sa ilang pamilya diin makadawat sila sa mga mosunod: Immediate Assistance, Livelihood Assistance, Libreng edukasyon, ug balay sa mga miyembro niini. Naa pay dugang benepisyo’ng pinansyal alang sa mga mi-surender nga nagdala ug armas.

Gi-awhag ni Lt Col. Fabic ang mga nahabilin nga miyembro sa teroristang grupo sa GF Malayag nga gipamuno-an ni alyas ‘Migs’ nga unta mag-surender na karon ug pahimuslan ang mga programa sa gobyerno alang kanila ug alang sa ilang pamilya samtang naa pa ang kahigayonan. (CMO, 88IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050887

Another 38 ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon get P1.7M livelihood aid

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): Another 38 ex-NPA rebels in Bukidnon get P1.7M livelihood aid (By Camille M. Bumatay, CMO, 8IB)



IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon, August 20—Another 38 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and ‘Militia ng Bayan (MB)’ received more than P1.7 million worth of cash as livelihood assistance from the government for paving the way towards lasting peace.

Through the government’s Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the said 38 former rebels (FRs) received their cash incentives from Bukidnon E-CLIP Committee on Thursday, August 13, in a mass awarding ceremony at Kaamulan Folk Arts Theater, Malaybalay City.

Each of the 23 former NPA combatants received P50,000 livelihood assistance plus P15,000 immediate aid, while the 15 ‘Militia ng Bayan (former NPA supporters)’ received P15,000 each.

Alias ‘Jer,’ one of the FRs and now a CAFGU Active Auxilliary (CAA) expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming assistance he received from the government.

“Sobra akong kalipay ug pasalamat sa gobyerno sa ilang kinasingkasing nga pagdawat ug paghatag ug daghang suporta. Kani-adto, naa pa ko sa armado’ng grupo nga nagto-o sa sayop nga idolohiya, sa sayop nga pamuno-an. Apan karon, usa na ako ka hingpit nga CAA nga naga serbisyo sa among komunidad ug sa atong nag-inusarang gobyerno, ang gobyerno sa Pilipinas.” (I am very happy and thankful to the government for providing me utmost support. Before, I was with the struggling armed group believing in a wicked ideology, a wrong leadership; Now, I am a certified CAA serving our community under our only one government, the Philippine government,” alias Jer said.

Governor Jose Maria R. Zubiri Jr, E-CLIP Committee chairman, said "Malipayon ako nga kamo nakadawat na sa pinansyal nga tabang nga inyong magamit para magsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi. Kini nga probinsya padayon nga maghatag sa mga interbensyon nga kinahanglan ninyo aron masuportahan ang imong pamilya." (I am glad that you've received the cash assistance that you will use to start a new life. This province will continue to provide interventions that you need to support your families).

Last month, July 20, it can be recalled that 67 FRs in Bukidnon received a total of P2.5 million worth of financial aid.

Lt. Col. Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr, 8IB commanding officer, meanwhile, urged all the remaining communist terrorist members to surrender and avail of the government’s livelihood assistance programs.

“Ug sa makausa pa, kami nagahangyo sa mga nahibilin nga mga miyembro sa Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) nga mo-surender na, buhi-i na ang inyong mga armas ug magpuyo nga malinawon kauban ang inyong pamilya. Ang gobyerno dunay E-CLIP nga maghatag ug kumpleto nga tabang para sa mga rebelde ug ilang mga pamilya nga gusto na mobiya sa armadong pakigbisog ug mobalik na sa sabakan sa balaod. (Once again, we urge all remaining CNT members to surrender, lay down your arms, and live peacefully with your families. The government has an E-CLIP that provides a complete package to the rebels and their families who decide to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law),” Lt. Col. Talaroc said.

Major General Andres Centino, commander of the AFP’s 4th Infantry Division, meanwhile, said they believe that more NPA rebels would lay down their arms after seeing their former comrades now living in peace.

“President Duterte wants to end this insurgency problem before his term ends. I am therefore urging the remaining NPA rebels to surrender and avail of the integration and livelihood programs that the government has in store for them,” MGen. Centino said. (CMO, 8IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050858

MILF’s 124th base command condemns Dawla Islamiya

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): MILF’s 124th base command condemns Dawla Islamiya (By 55th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

MADALUM, Lanao del Sur, Aug. 21 - Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) 124th Base Command together with the residents of Brgy Tamporong, this municipality condemned the Dawla Islamiya Local Terrorist Group (LTG) and their atrocities, Monday, August 17.

Through the initiative of the Madalum Municipal Task Force on Ending Local Armed Conflict (ELAC), Tamporong Barangay Task Force ELAC, and the Army’s 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade, the members of the MILF’s 124th Base Command and residents of Brgy Tamporong declared the Dawla Islamiya LTG as persona non grata and denounced all of their activities through a barangay resolution.

“The Dawla Islamiya are not welcomed here, what they are fighting for are the wrong interpretations of Islam. Their presence has disrupted the projects here,” said Abu Zubair, commander of the MILF’s 124th Base Command.

Lieutenant Colonel Alano, commanding officer of 55th Infantry Battalion, said the MILF has requested for army installations in the area and so far they’ve been very cooperative when it comes to counter-terrorism operations.

“This is a big blow against the Dawla Islamiya in terms of their support systems. We have further constricted their area of operation by lessening the communities where they can go to recruit members and entice supporters,” added LtCol. Alano.

The condemnation activity was highlighted by the burning of the LTG's black flag to symbolize the said terrorist group and all of their atrocities which have hampered progress and development in the area.

Madalum Vice Mayor Sultan Usman Sarangani Sr. said the LGU and Municipal Task Force ELAC’s is in full support to all initiatives that would put an end to all kinds of armed conflict which will bring-forth development in the municipality.

Meanwhile, Colonel Nolie Anquilliano, deputy brigade commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade said the condemnation activity means the people of Brgy Tamporong and the members of MILF’s 124th Base Command are exhausted of the senseless violence brought about by the misuse of religion by this terrorist group which is greatly damaging the image of Islam. (55th IB)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050962

Manhunt launched vs CNTs after 30-minute fight in MisOr

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): Manhunt launched vs CNTs after 30-minute fight in MisOr (By Maj Francisco P. Garello)

MISAMIS ORIENTAL, Aug. 21 – Brigadier General Maurito L. Licudine, the Commander of 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade has ordered a massive manhunt operation against the fleeing members of the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) after an encounter with the troopers of 58th Infantry (Dimalulupig) Battalion in the forested area of Sitio Mangilet, Barangay Bal-ason, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.

“An order was already sent to the troops to scour the vicinity of the encounter site and pursue without let up the escaping CNTs,” Licudine said.

Licudine stressed that the CNTs are in the area to sow terror to the civilians and extort money and food for their survival.



“We will not give any chance for these terrorists to regroup and harass the residents in Barangay Bal-ason and the surrounding areas. We want these New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists pushed hard until they give up their arms and surrender to the government,” Licudine maintained.

While the CTGs are now distressed, hungry and tired after the armed confrontation, the 58IB troopers must continue to track down, pursue and neutralize the fleeing NPA terrorists, the 402Bde commander emphasized.

Elements of 58IB under the operational control of 402nd Brigade were conducting combat operations in the area after receiving reports from residents on the presence of armed CTG members who are planning to conduct harassments and extortion activities.

Around twenty CNTs believed to be members of Guerrilla Front (GF) 4B of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) headed by an @ PATRICK (TNU) were engaged by the operating troops in a 30-minute gun battle. The CNTs then abandoned their positions and retreated toward the southeast direction in the area after the encounter leaving still unidentified one dead comrade and possibly sustained undetermined number of casualties as evidenced by the bloodstains discovered on the spot where they positioned during the skirmish and on their escape route while no one was hurt on the government side.

The government troopers also recovered from the encounter site one M14 rifle, one anti-personnel mine (APM), a 50-meter wire, three magazines for M14 rifle loaded with ammunition, one Baofeng radio, one solar charger, and assorted medical paraphernalia.

“Your Army, particularly those under the operational control of 402nd Brigade, will not rest in pursuing these NPA terrorists who continue to hamper development initiatives of the government especially in the remote areas considered as geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas that are under the CapDEV or PDZ program,” Licudine said, as he pointed out that services of the government are needed by the people nowadays amidst the continuing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“Instead of paving the way for the help and services to reach remote barangays during this pandemic, these NPA terrorists are aggravating the hardships of the people by spreading fear through harassment and intimidation,” Licudine said. He also lauded the courage of the residents in the area for informing the Army on the presence of the CNTs.

“We encourage the populace to report to us the presence of these terrorists in your communities and surely we will act on them. They are none a pestilence than COVID-19.” Licudine added. (402nd Infantry “Stingers” Brigade)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050961

NTF-ELCAC visits IP communities in MisOr

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 21, 2020): NTF-ELCAC visits IP communities in MisOr (By MAJ FRANCISCO P GARELLO JR)

MISAMIS ORIENTAL, Aug. 21 - In line with its commitment to strengthen the Indigenous People's communities within its area of responsibility, the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade represented by Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., Deputy Brigade Commander, participated in the Inter-Agency Visitations to Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) spearheaded by National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Chairman Secretary Allen A Capuyan.

The IPs visited belonged to the Higaonon Tribe from Gingoog City, Magsaysay, Medina, Talisayan, Balingoan, Binuangan, Salay and Lagonglong held on August 19, 2020 at Brgy Bobuntugan, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental.



The inter-agency visit to IP communities was initiated by the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) spearheaded by Secretary Allen A Capuyan, the Executive Director and at the same time the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Chairman facilitated by Director Jeanne Ann M Zoilo, the Regional Director of NCIP Region 10, NCIP MisOr, the 402nd Infantry Brigade and 58th Infantry Battalion in close partnership with the provincial government of Misamis Oriental.

The visit aimed to gain first-hand knowledge on how the ICCs/IPs are coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, food security programs and progress in their ancestral domain management and the violence and human rights violations being perpetrated against the ICCs/IPs by the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs).

Other agencies present during the event were Col. Michelle Anayron, assistant division commander for RRA of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division; Engr. Marisha Naivet, provincial director of DILG MisOr; Plormelinda Olet, deputy regional director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), and representatives from Department of Agriculture (DA), Bureau of Fish and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Department of Health (DOH).

Meanwhile, Secretary Capuyan met with the tribal leaders to hear and address the pressing issues that were presented during the dialogue as a way to protect and promote the interest of the ICCs/IPs according to the principles of the four bundles of rights enshrined in the IPRA law. (402ndBgde)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050963

Two militias receive benefits under ECLIP

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 22, 2020): Two militias receive benefits under ECLIP (By Peter A. Balocnit)

CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga, Aug 22(PIA) - - Government awarded financial assistance to two Militia ng Bayan enrollees to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) on Friday at Capitol here.

A 22- year old male from Apatan, Pinukpuk received P50,000 for his hog raising livelihood plus P15,000 immediate assistance. The 28 year- old married woman from Bagumbayan, Tabuk city also received P50,000 for her palay production livelihood and P15,000 immediate assistance.



Governor Ferdinand Tubban awarded the benefits witnessed by ECLIP members - DILG Provincial Director Mayer Max Adong, PNP Provincial Director Davy Vicente Limmong, Capt. Ben Cawa of 503rd Brigade, PSWDO Digna Dalutag, and Peter Balocnit of the Philippine Information Agency with the special presence of Pinukpuk Police Chief Master Sergeant Johnny Yogyog.

The provincial local government unit (LGU) during their profiling earlier gave the duo P5,000 each and 25 kilos of rice.

Tubban welcomed the former militia members hoping for others who are still undecided to resurface . The government he said is open for rebel returnees to rejoin mainstream society,.

He said what was awarded is a start-up for them to engage in livelihood. The LGU will still look on their other needs.

Tubban advised the two to still engage on other income generating livelihood. “Nu gagetam ket mabiyag ka ken awan papanana nu di ag progreso. Mabalin met agtaraken ti manok wenno dadduma nga dingwen, ken nu adda bassit nga daga nu mulaam, dakkel itulong na ti pamilya,” he said.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Digna Dalutag also assured the enrollees of other assistance like training or accessing them to the services of agencies. “We hope that your respective livelihood will prosper. You expect us to monitor their progress,” she said.

Provincial PNP Director Davy Vicente Limmong congratulated the two for coming back to the folds of the law and challenged them to become models for others to emulate especially those who are still connected with the New People’s Army.
He assured them that the PNP will provide security if their lives are endangered or being threatened by their former comrades.

Captain Ben Cawa of the 503rd Brigade thanked the two returnees of their wise decision. “Awan met naala yo idi adda kayo ti banbantay, sunga salamat unay ta napanunut yo nga nagsubli ti sidung ti gobyerno,” he said.

Yogyog who exerted efforts in facilitating the return of the male returnee expressed Pinukpuk Municipal Station’s gratitude for trusting them during the process of convincing him to enroll under ECLIP.

Meanwhile, Provincial DILG Director Mayer Max Adong encouraged the enrollees to join the Kalinga Returnees Association in order to avail of services offered by government offices to organized groups. (JDP/PAB-PIA CAR, Kalinga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050841

CPP/NPA-Southern Tagalog: Bukas na liham sa lahat ng mamamayang lumalaban sa ATA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Aug 18, 2020): Bukas na liham sa lahat ng mamamayang lumalaban sa ATA

ARMANDO CIENFUEGO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-SOUTHERN TAGALOG

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

AUGUST 20, 2020

Binabati ng Melito Glor Command-NPA Southern Tagalog (MGC-NPA ST) ang sambayanang Pilipino na matatag na lumalaban at walang-tigil na sumusuporta sa pakikibaka laban sa pagsasabatas ni Duterte sa Anti-Terror Act of 2020 (ATA). Ang libo-libong mamamayang humugos sa lansangan sa kabila ng militaristang lockdown at kulang sa isang milyong netizens na nagpetisyon upang tutulan ang ATA ay patunay na hindi kailanman kayang pigilan ni Duterte ang nag-aalimpuyong galit ng taumbayan at pagkamuhi sa mga anti-mamamayan at pasistang patakaran ng rehimen. Kasalukuyang may 27 petisyon ang mga manggagawa, magsasaka, abugado, taong simbahan, mga makabayang pulitiko at lingkod-bayan, mga pambansang minorya at iba pa na nakahain sa Korte Suprema para ibasura ang ATA.

Labis na nasisindak si Duterte sa lakas ng mamamayan. Ipinataw niya ang isang malupit na batas na nagbibigay sa kanya ng absolutong kapangyarihan laban sa buong hanay ng mga mamamayan. Pangunahing tinatarget nito ang mga aktibista, mga progresibo’t makabayan, kritiko at oposisyon sa rehimen. Pinasaklaw ng rehimen ang ATA upang hatulang “terorista” ang sinumang hindi papabor sa mga anti-mamamayan at anti-demokratikong patakaran na naglilingkod sa interes ng imperyalismo at lokal na mga naghaharing uri sa Pilipinas. Kamakailan, nagbanta pa siya sa mga doktor na nagpaparating lamang ng mga hinaing hinggil sa pangangailangan ng sektor ng kalusugan na “mag-rebolusyon na lang sila” sa harap ng tumitinding pasismo ng kanyang rehimen at atake ng COVID-19.

Buong lakas na pinakakawalan ni Duterte ang terorismo ng estado sa mamamayan. Sa Timog Katagalugan inaresto’t bininbin ang 88 aktibistang nagprotesta sa SONA ni Duterte. Karumaldumal na pinaslang ng rehimen ang isang progresibong Barangay Captain sa Laguna na si Froilan Reyes noong Hunyo 18. Pinakahuli ang brutal na pagpaslang kay Randall Echanis na consultant ng NDFP sa loob ng kanyang inuupahang kwarto sa Quezon City noong Agosto 10 at kay Sarah Alvarez ng Karapatan-Negros na inambus ng military death squad ng rehimen sa Bacolod City nito lamang Agosto 17. Ang mga krimeng ito ay nagsisilbing dobleng talim na pumapaslang sa mga kritiko at naninindak sa mamamayan.

Sa kabila ng samu’t saring pakana ng estado para supilin ang pakikibaka ng sambayanan, nananatiling matibay ang paninindigan ng mamamayang Pilipino na labanan ang tiranya, teror at pasismo ni Duterte. Hindi natatakot ang mamamayang Pilipino na harapin si Duterte. Taliwas sa inaakala ni Duterte na mananahimik ang mamamayan, lalong lalakas ang kanilang panawagan para sa hustisya at karapatan hanggang sa pagpapabagsak sa kinamumuhiang rehimen.

Kaugnay nito, ipinararating ng MGC-NPA ST ang lubos na suporta sa pakikibaka ng mamamayan laban sa ATA at kay Duterte. Habang nagpapatuloy ang panawagan ng bayan na ibasura ang ATA at patalsikin si Duterte, patuloy na ilulunsad ng mga yunit sa ilalim ng MGC ang mga taktikal na opensiba para durugin ang mga teroristang AFP-PNP na siyang sandata ni Duterte laban sa mamamayan at instrumento sa pagpapatupad ng ATA. Hindi lulubay ang mga yunit ng NPA sa rehiyon sa pagsusulong ng armadong pakikibaka upang papanagutin ang mersenaryong AFP at PNP at ipagtanggol ang sambayanan laban sa pasismo ng rehimen sa gitna ng pandemya.

Bukas ang mga larangang gerilyang saklaw ng MGC sa lahat ng mamamayang nanganganib at may banta sa kanilang buhay mula sa military death squad ni Duterte. Handang kanlungin ng mga yunit ng NPA ST ang sinumang mamamayang nanganganib ang buhay at kaligtasan mula sa kriminal at mamamatay-taong rehimen.

Sa halip na matakot at mapipilan, ang sambayanan ay kinakailangang lumaban sa anumang paraang alam nila at humawak ng sandata at magsulong ng armadong rebolusyon para wakasan ang tiraniya at pasismo ni Duterte. Lagi’t laging katuwang ng malawak na hanay ng mamamayang Pilipino ang NPA sa pagtatanggol ng kanilang interes. Nariyan din ang PKP para pamunuan ang kanilang pakikibaka. Sa nagkakaisang lakas ng CPP-NPA at ng sambayanang Pilipino, maibabagsak natin ang diktadurya ni Duterte at maitatayo ang tunay na gubyernong nagsusulong ng interes ng mamamayan.

Ibasura ang Anti-Terror Act of 2020!

Mabuhay ang CPP-NPA-NDFP!

Mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!

https://cpp.ph/statements/bukas-na-liham-sa-lahat-ng-mamamayang-lumalaban-sa-ata/

Opinion: Why the position of AFP chief of staff is like a revolving door

Oponion piece posted to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 20, 2020): Why the position of AFP chief of staff is like a revolving door

The strongest organization in any Third World country is its military organization. It is from this organization where the head of state, elected or otherwise, obtains his capacity to protect his office, as his office is always subjected to challenges.

In the Philippines, past or present, we are all aware of this truism. It is therefore the policy of the head of state to appoint a completely trusted and loyal officer of his military in the person of the chief of staff (CoS) to command the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and through him, he has control of the entire military.

In our structure, the CoS is a very powerful man, and checks and balances hardly exist. He commands the entire AFP with loyal subordinates, from top to bottom, who are also graduates of the same school where he came from. Coming from the same school provides the culture that makes his subordinates loyal to him (right or wrong) in spite of the military structure and laws against it. It is no wonder then that the head of state would rather have a CoS who gets rotated frequently, to get the loyalty of the man who wields such vast power on the entire AFP.

But if the CoS performs only his functions as described by his title, his power of command is taken away. It reverts to the commander in chief (CinC) who can delegate such functions of command to the major service commands, separate or area commands like Cemcom, Nolcom, etc. With that kind of structure, the CoS position will become less significant, other than providing advice to the CinC and more rigorous planning for the AFP. At this point, the head of state will feel at ease with the safety and security of his office. That would be reason enough for the CoS to have a term of office.

I will not suggest that the position of CoS be abolished or the appointee be replaced by the secretary of national defense (SND) in an acting capacity. The CoS is a soldier position, but the SND may be a civilian as it should be.

It is suggested, though, that professionalism in the officer corps of the AFP should be raised. Today, the AFP is a military dynasty controlled by PMA graduates. If one checks the roster of the major positions in the AFP, he will find that what I said is true.

Years back, there was a bill filed by several senators to create academies for the Air Force and the Navy, but that bill never came to pass. The main points of that bill were twofold: to provide checks and balances in the AFP, and to provide training to sons and daughters of poor families. Had these schools been created, I am sure we could have produced well-schooled officers for the two technical services of the AFP and, further, contributed highly trained personnel for the management of the aviation and maritime industries.

It is never too late to create these schools now, as a law has been enacted for the government to provide free college education while there is also a need for highly educated officers to man the very expensive naval ships and fighter jets.

Lt. Gen. Antonio E Sotelo
AFP (retired)
Alabang Hills Village, Muntinlupa City

https://opinion.inquirer.net/132846/why-the-position-of-afp-chief-of-staff-is-like-a-revolving-door

EASTMINCOM: High ranking NPA militia leader arrested in Davao Oriental

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 20): High ranking NPA militia leader arrested in Davao Oriental

A wanted individual known to be a high ranking leader of a militia under the Communist Terrorist Group in Davao Oriental was arrested by the combined elements of 28th Infantry (Kamagong) Battalion, 104MICU, and PNP Lupon in his hideout at Sitio Kinawasan, Brgy. San Isidro, Lupon, Davao Oriental on August 15, 2020.

The arrested individual identified as Antonio Arendain alias Toto, who has a pending Homicide case, came after former rebels pointed his location to authorities, which was immediately acted upon through a Warrant of Arrest issued by the Lupon Regional Trial Court (RTC).

Recovered from him possession is an AK47 and M14 rifle.

FULL STORY: bit.ly/3gbbiwj

#AFPYouCanTrust

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3336806586379555/3336806476379566/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3336806586379555/3336806523046228/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/

EASTMINCOM: AFP discovers NPA hideout in Butuan City

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 20): AFP discovers NPA hideout in Butuan City

LOOK | An abandoned hideout belonging to the Communist Terrorist Group operating in Agusan del Sur was discovered by the troops of 23rd Infantry "Masigasig" Battalion, Philippine Army in a forested area of Sitio Lamusig, Barangay Tungao, Butuan City on August 18, 2020, through the information of concerned citizens.

Seized from the encampment are packs of ammunition and food supplies concealed in caches.

FULL STORY: bit.ly/3hdKqgH

#AFPYouCanTrust

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3336955126364701/3336954583031422/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3336955126364701/3336954676364746/?type=3&theater

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https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3336955126364701/3336954799698067/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/

EASTMINCOM: 3 NPA rebels surrender with weapons in Agusan del Norte

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 20): 3 NPA rebels surrender with weapons in Agusan del Norte

An NPA couple identified as alias Milan and alias Cris, together with alias JR, another NPA regular, returned to the folds of the law on August 14, 2020, after fearing for the future of their family while being with the terrorist group.

Facilitated by the 29th Infantry "Matatag" Battalion, Philippine Army at Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, the former rebels also yielded one (1) Caliber 5.56mm Bushmaster rifle with one plastic and four short loaded magazines, one (1) AK47 rifle with four loaded magazines, and one (1) Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

#AFPYouCanTrust

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337370619656485/3337370406323173/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337370619656485/3337370469656500/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337370619656485/3337370509656496/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337370619656485/3337370566323157/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/

EASTMINCOM: 3 NPA Militiang Bayan (MB) members surrender in Bukidnon

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 20): 3 NPA Militiang Bayan (MB) members surrender in Bukidnon

Three Militiang Bayan (MB) members of a Communist Terrorist Group operating in the area of Kibawe, Bukidnon surrendered on August 15, 2020, to the 16th Infantry Maglilingkod Troopers Battalion through the effort of its Community Development Team.

The surrenderees brought along with them one (1) Springfield US Model of 1917 and two (2) homemade shotguns with a magazine and live ammunition.

FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/31daOlj

#AFPYouCanTrust

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337421566318057/3337421396318074/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337421566318057/3337421496318064/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337421566318057/3337421529651394/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/

EASTMINCOM: 4 NPA members surrender in Agusan del Norte

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Aug 20): 4 NPA members surrender in Agusan del Norte

Four NPA members operating in Agusan del Norte recently abandoned the terrorist group and yielded to the troops of 23rd Infantry Battalion on August 13, 2020, in Buenavista town.

The NPA deserters, led by a certain alias Benon, said that they chose to run away from the Communist Terrorist Group to return to their families after realizing that they were only deceived to join in return of financial benefits, which turned out to be unlawful as it led them to commit extortion activities and atrocities against communities, and in turn suffered their families.

FULL STORY: https://bit.ly/3hjmEQo

#AFPYouCanTrust

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337540176306196/3337539912972889/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337540176306196/3337539979639549/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337540176306196/3337540039639543/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/photos/pcb.3337540176306196/3337540089639538/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/eastmincom/