Medium-rise condo for soldiers, cops launched in Cebu City

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): Medium-rise condo for soldiers, cops launched in Cebu City (By John Rey Saavedra)

HOUSING PROJECT. Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go (third left) is seen snapping photos of the crowd during the groundbreaking ceremony of the 13-story condominium-type housing project for the soldiers and policemen, at Barangay Pulangbato, Cebu City on Friday (July 9, 2021). Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Lloyd Dino (second right) and NHA general manager Marcelino Escalada Jr. (second left) accompanied Go in the 27th housing project of the Duterte administration. (PNA photo by John Rey Saavedra)

CEBU CITY – Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Friday led other government officials in the groundbreaking ceremony of a medium-rise condominium-type housing for the soldiers, policemen, and government workers.

The project called Southpark Residences situated in a 2.1-hectare site in Barangay Pulangbato, 15-kilometers from the city center, will have a total of 850 two-bedroom residential units, with each unit measuring 42-square meters, including a 2.5-square meter balcony.

In his speech, Go said the project is the 27th housing project being undertaken by the government in fulfillment of President Rodrigo Duterte’s promise to give the members of the uniformed service in the country affordable housing.

“The police and the military are our priority. Like what the administration did in 2018 when we raised their salary almost double. They are the partners in this administration in the war against drugs and criminality,” Go said in Cebuano.

He also cited the crucial role of the personnel of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the ongoing fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Apart from being affordable where each beneficiary can pay as low as PHP9,000 per month, Go said the government will also provide them with PHP100,000 affront subsidy so that they can still have funds to purchase furniture, kitchen utensils, among other things they would need moving into their new homes.

“We still have three more housing projects for groundbreaking before the end of the term of President Duterte. I hope that the next administration will continue this project that will benefit our people,” Go said during a press conference.

The 13-story residential condominium will stand amid landscaped gardens, tree-lined roads, commercial facilities, and community amenities.

National Housing Authority general manager Marcelino Escalada Jr. told reporters that the project, costing PHP1.6-billion, is expected to be finished in 2023.

“What happened in Pandi, Bulacan was the trigger why we have this project which is now better, bigger, and more comfortable housing for the police and the soldiers,” Escalada said in his speech.

He was referring to the AFP-PNP Housing Project in Bulacan that became the subject of criticism because of the smaller floor area measuring only 24-square meters, with the supposed beneficiaries describing it as “bahay ng kalapati” (dove house).

Escalada said the government has improved the floor areas in horizontal projects like single-detached housing to 60-square meters with two bedrooms, while those units in condominium type housing units have 42 to 45-square meters.

The country now has a total of 27,000 housing units for the police, soldiers, firemen, coast guards, and government employees.

In the Pulangbato project, Escalada said each beneficiary can get a unit for PHP1.9 million which is payable for 30 years.

In the afternoon, Go and Escalada flew to Bohol to inaugurate the same housing project in the municipality of Dauis.

Central Command (Centcom) commander Lt. General Roberto Ancan and Police Regional Office-7 chief Brig. General Ronnie Montejo, who both attended the groundbreaking ceremony, thanked Duterte for providing their men and women in uniform with decent housing.

“Nakita namon na (We see it that) these are very affordable for our soldiers, airmen, sailors, policemen with which they can have their own house. not only itong mga (these) condo, there are single detached units available. It’s up to them to choose which type they want,” Ancan told reporters in an interview.

He encouraged the soldiers to apply for housing loan so that they can avail of the housing project in Pulangbato this city.

Montejo said the police force in the region is very thankful to the President for providing them with the affordable housing project, stressing that this endeavor will uplift the lives of the cops especially those still renting houses in the slum areas.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146557

2 CPP-NPA supporters from Capiz yield

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): 2 CPP-NPA supporters from Capiz yield (By Perla Lena)

SURRENDER. Two supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) have surrendered to authorities in Dumarao, Capiz on July 7, 2021. They will be validated and recommended to avail of benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Interrogation Program. (Photo courtesy of Capiz Police Provincial Office)

The government’s campaign to end local communist armed conflict continues to bear fruit as two supporters of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) have surrendered to authorities in Dumarao, Capiz.

Col. Joem Malong, the spokesperson of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6), said in an interview on Friday that the surrenderers, both residents of Barangay Bungsuan in Dumarao, presented themselves at the Dumarao Municipal Police Station on July 7, 2021.

"Ka Fidel", 66, and "Ka Kano", 31, decided to surrender to make it clear they no longer support the rebel movement, she added.

Malong said Ka Fidel was an active supporter of the CPP-NPA sometime in 1992 and became inactive starting November 17, 2017. He used to be a leader and speaker in every mass action in Roxas City.

He was also on the list of periodic status reports on a threat group known as the Regional White Area Committee (RWAC) and chair of the Kahublagan ng mga Mangunguma sa Capiz (Kamaca).

“After 29 years, Ka Fidel decided to disband the group to live a normal and fearless life. This motivated him to surrender to the government and also to clear his name,” Malong said.

On the other hand, Ka Kano served as security when revolutionary taxes were being collected.

He left in 2012, just after a year in the movement.

He also turned over two pistolized single-shot homemade shotguns without markings, three shotgun ammunition, and one 40mm grenade launcher projectile.

Malong said they will be profiled and validated to be able to avail of benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Interrogation Program (E-CLIP).

The spokesperson also credited the Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) assigned in the area as well as barangay officials for being effective in convincing CPP-NPA supporters and members to return to the government's fold.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146587

Akap Kapatid program benefits 20 ex-rebels in C. Luzon

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): Akap Kapatid program benefits 20 ex-rebels in C. Luzon (By Zorayda Tecson)

REINTEGRATION. At least 20 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army from various areas in Central Luzon were given hope through a program that could help them return to mainstream society and live peacefully with their families. The Akap Kapatid program was launched Thursday (July 8, 2021) led by the Police Regional Office 3, in collaboration with the 7th Civil-Military Operations, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, and Central Luzon Cadre Team. (Photo by PRO-3)

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – At least 20 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) from various areas in Central Luzon were given hope through a program for them to return to society's mainstream and live peacefully with their families.

Col. Rommel A. Velasco, head of the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division 3 (RCADD 3), said on Friday the Akap Kapatid program was launched on Thursday in the region to prepare former rebels for reintegration into society.

The new program is led by the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3), in collaboration with the 7th Civil-Military Operations (CMO), 7th Infantry Division (ID), Philippine Army (PA), and Central Luzon Cadre Team.

Velasco said the program is a psycho-social intervention program and has two phases with the short term focusing on the self-assessment, psychosocial program, and confidence-building of participants.

The long-term will focus on the general welfare of the rebel returnees on how they can return to the community and live peacefully and sustainably.

“The most important is that they will be radicalized, the way they view the government will change and we have shown that the government looks after their welfare,” Col. David Poklay, head of the Regional Intelligence Division 3, said in official social media account post.

Aside from lectures, the former rebels were also given grocery packs through the PNP’s BARANGAYanihan Libreng Ayuda.

Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, PRO 3 deputy regional director for administration (DRDA), thanked the rebels who chose to surrender and urged them to convince others to join them by surrendering their weapons to the government.

He assured that the PRO 3, along with other member agencies of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), would continue to assist rebel returnees in their peaceful and successful reintegration into society.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146535

2 AFP senior officers promoted to higher rank

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): 2 AFP senior officers promoted to higher rank (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PROMOTED. AFP chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (center) poses for a photo opportunity with newly-promoted senior officers, Rear Admiral Antonio Palces (left) and Brig. Gen. Mark Edwin Moro (right) during their donning ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (July 8, 2021). Palces is the Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training (J-8) while Moro is the Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff of Communication, Electronics and Information Systems (J-6). (Photo courtesy of AFP)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, on Thursday personally presided over the donning ceremonies of two newly-promoted senior military officials.

Promoted were Rear Admiral Antonio Palces and Brig. Gen. Mark Edwin Moro. The ceremony was held at the Bulwagang Balangiga of the General Headquarters Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

“Our honorees possess impeccable service reputations that undoubtedly befitted them with distinct attributes as competent and committed officers and leaders of the AFP,” Sobejana said in a statement Friday.

Palces is the Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training (J-8) while Moro holds the position of Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff of Communication, Electronics and Information Systems (J-6).

The promotion to a higher rank in the military organization is one of the enduring demonstrations of the tradition of excellence and professionalism in the noble profession of arms.

Sobejana congratulated the honorees including their families for achieving the milestone while reminding the officers of their obligations as leaders of the AFP.

“This is truly a huge milestone in your respective careers, I, therefore, ask that you take time to reflect on the significance of this promotion. May it also serve as a reminder of the higher responsibilities and greater expectations of the organization and the Filipino people,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146500

Super Tucano aircraft in landing mishap repairable: PAF

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): Super Tucano aircraft in landing mishap repairable: PAF (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said the Embraer A-29B "Super Tucano" attack aircraft which was recently damaged during a "routine" maintenance check flight is repairable and will be returned immediately to service once the needed parts and technicians arrive from Brazil.

"The damages on the aircraft are all reparable and Embraer will provide the parts at no cost to the PAF," it said in a statement posted on its Facebook page late Thursday.

The PAF said the aircraft was damaged following a routine maintenance equipment check flight (ECF) in Clark Air Base, Pampanga.

At the time of the mishap, the aircraft was being flown by a Brazilian instructor pilot from Embraer as "pilot-in-command" with the PAF 15th Strike Wing commander as "observer/passenger" during the flight.

"The aircraft sustained some damage during landing in Clark. The Brazilian Instructor Pilot had full control of the aircraft and responsibility for the flight. The Wing Commander was just a mere passenger observing the performance and flight characteristics of the aircraft as part of his functions," the PAF said.

Based on the assessment made by the aircraft manufacturer, the structural integrity of the aircraft is "very much intact and by replacing the component parts that were damaged, it will be put back to operational status."

The PAF said this was a commitment made by Embraer's top management and the aircraft will be immediately returned to service the soonest possible time.

Both the pilot and the observer did not sustain any injuries during the incident.

"The investigation by PAF and Embraer found that the Brazilian Embraer instructor pilot failed to initiate a go-around and prevent a positive landing. Embraer considered the event a minor flight incident that normally happens during flights," the Air Force added.

And per its contract, Embraer will assume full responsibility for the aircraft throughout the duration of the training period.

"That is why during this period, all the Super Tucano aircraft can only be flown if an Embraer pilot is also present in the flight," the PAF added.

Four of the A-29B close-support attack aircraft arrived on September 19 while the remaining two arrived on October 1.

Embraer pilots flew the aircraft from the company airfield in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and made fueling stops in the Canary Islands, Portugal, Malta, Egypt, Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates, India, Thailand, and Vietnam before landing in the Philippines.

The A-29B aircraft were earlier scheduled to be delivered by the end of July 2020 but the pandemic and subsequent travel bans skewed the delivery timetables.

The "Super Tucano" is a turboprop aircraft designed for light attack, counter-insurgency, close air support, aerial reconnaissance missions in low threat environments, as well as providing pilot training.

The contract for the six aircraft is worth PHP4.97 billion and was issued in late 2017.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146522

NPA attack in Samar another unjustifiable act: CHR

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 9, 2021): NPA attack in Samar another unjustifiable act: CHR (By Marita Moaje)

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the latest attack by the New People’s Army against government troops in Eastern Samar and vowed to conduct an inquiry of its own.

CHR Deputy Spokesperson Marc Louis Siapno, in a statement issued on Friday, said “no ideology can justify violations of human rights nor be used as a reason to excuse themselves from any accountability”.

To recall, a member of the Philippine Army’s 52nd Infantry Battalion and two militiamen were killed while six others were injured after NPA members detonated three anti-personnel mines (APM) in Jipapad, Eastern Samar early Wednesday.

The Police Regional Office in Eastern Samar said 14 soldiers and members of the Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit Active Auxiliary (CAA) were heading to their new detachment when ambushed by about 30 NPA rebels in Sitio Cabatas, Barangay 4.

The report stated that the soldiers were about 70 meters away from the detachment when the APMs exploded simultaneously.

The CHR stressed in its statement that even non-state actors should comply with the International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

“In this incident, the indiscriminate use of improvised explosive devices, including landmines, continues to fail in distinguishing between civilians and combatants and protect especially civilians and communities from the ill effects of armed conflict, which violates the spirit of IHL,” Siapno said.

He said that through its regional office in Central Visayas, the CHR will pursue an independent probe.

The CHR sent its condolences to the families of the deceased and wished for a quick recovery of those wounded.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1146581

MILF: MILF-BIAF members attend community peace-building activity

 Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jun 30, 2021): MILF-BIAF members attend community peace-building activity (By Raffie S. Pasingan, Luwaran)

30JUNE

IN PHOTO: Resource speaker, Mr. Tirso Tahir from BLMI emphasizing to MILF-BIAF elements the significance of Peace Agreement to attain doable peace and development in BARMM region.

Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao (June 27, 2021)- We need to intensify our collective efforts in sustaining the gains of peace process to pave the way to doable peace and Development in BARMM Region. Mr. Tirso Tahir said during a peace building advocacy Saturday, June 26. at Barangay Balut, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao.

Hadji Bashir Ampat of the 9th Brigade Expeditionary Mission, Inner Guard Base Command, NGF-BIAF of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) initiated productive initiatives through conducting series of peace building activities in grassroots communities in a bid to provide valuable information and enhance the efforts of MILF-BIAF combatants in sustaining the gains of the peace process.

It also aims to update the MILF Combatants on the significance of peace agreement that led to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

During the activity, Mr. Tirso S. Tahir, officer from the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) gave updates on the programs implemented by BARMM.

Your unprecedented support and sacrifices in sustaining the atmosphere of peace in our region are part of Ibadah (worship), hence we must be responsive in peace-building endeavors that will pave the way to doable peace and development so that the Bangsamoro people will reap the dividends of Peace. What we see and feel right now is just the start towards the greater cause, Tahir said.

Tahir added that the establishment of BARMM is just a part and parcel of political aspect and democratic processes through the virtue of Republic Act 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2346/milf-biaf-members-attend-community-peace-building-activity

MILF: JPST heightens role as peacekeeping force

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 6, 2021): JPST heightens role as peacekeeping force

6JULY

In photo-BTA MP Abdullah Macapaar (center) cuts the ribbon during the inauguration of a pre-fabricated station in Brgy Panggao, Munai, Lanao Del Norte on June 26 (PHOTO BY OPAPP)

BRGY. PANGGAO, MUNAI, LANAO DEL NORTE July 2, 2021) --- Another 30 new members joined the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST) deployed in this town, as a prefabricated station was also completed and turned over to the JPST team here on June 26.

The JPST station was built with funding support from the Embassy of Japan, and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Support to Peacebuilding and Normalization Programme (SPAN).

The facility was constructed by Philkoei International and Tokai-Kogyo

The JPST is a composite peacekeeping force composed of 15 representatives from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front - Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF), 7 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and 8 from the Philippine National Police.

It is a key component of the Normalization track under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), and is mainly tasked to track and document private armed groups, and help in the reduction and control of weapons; support the observance of the existing ceasefire agreement to address and prevent hostilities; work on security arrangements for activities related to and personalities involved in the peace process; and support dispute resolution initiatives on the ground.

Continued support to the peace process

In his remarks, Winston Camarinas, head of the UNDP Cotabato Office, said: “Ang opening ng JPST station here ay hindi lamang po opening of the structure but it is a symbolic (push) for the cooperation ng lahat ng stakeholders.”

“UNDP will continue the support and we commit ourselves to continue to support the process sa pag implement ng peace process at the same time pagsuporta sa pagsulong ng lokal na kapayapaan dito sa area,” Camarinas added.

In his message read by UNDP staff member Lisa Custodia, Okada Fumiaki, first secretary of the Embassy of Japan, said that the Japanese government will continue to support the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace process.

“As the peace process of Mindanao is developing, the Japanese Government and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will continue and further expand the cooperation for the transition to Bangsamoro Autonomous Government, the Normalization process and improvement of socioeconomic infrastructures.”

Over the years, Japan has actively supported the GPH-Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace process through various development projects.

The Japanese government’s donations to the JPST have included 12 Toyota Hilux pick trucks, 1 Toyota Fortuner SUV, 6 dropside trucks, 40 motorcycles and construction of 10 JPST stations.

These equipment and facilities have provided a major boost to JPSTs deployed in the Bangsamoro.

Beacon of hope

Munai Mayor Racma Andamama said her municipality fully supports the Bangsamoro peace process.
Andamama believes that the deployment of the JPST in her municipality will help sustain peace and stability in the area.

 
“Ito pong pagkakaroon ng JPST dito sa Brgy. Panggao, ito na ang magiging simula na magtutulungan ang ating pinag-isang AFP, PNP at mga BIAF para mapanatili ang kapayapaan," the mayor said.

"On behalf of the LGU Munai, basta ang usapan ay para sa kapayapaan, palagi po kaming nakasuporta dahil ‘iyan din ang pangunahing gusto namin para sa munisipyo ng Munai,” she added.

Meanwhile, Colonel Charlemagne Batayola, deputy commander of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade, noted that the creation of the JPST is a symbol of unity and cooperation among all stakeholders in their common quest for long-lasting peace.

“This JPST is a solemn symbolism and a beacon of hope that all of us here today wants to attain -- lasting peace and conflict development not only for our MILF brothers and sisters or MNLF brothers or sisters but for everyone living in these peaceful communities,” Batayola said.

Member of the Parliament Abdullah Macapaar pointed out that government peace and development initiatives will not succeed if the people do not support them.

“Ang programa ng ating gobyerno ay mapanatili ang kapayapaan. Muslim o Christian man sana tumulong tayo sa pag implement sa mga programa ng ating Presidente. Tayo ay magkaisa at magtulungan,” Macapaar said.

JPSC as peacekeeping force

According to Brigadier General Francisco Ariel Felicidario, co-chair of the Joint Peace and Security Committee, the JPST deployed in Balindong in Lanao del Sur helped solve a rido in Balindong.
He clarified that it is not the role of JPSTs to carry out military offensives, but to help solve rido cases and to help sustain peace in the Bangsamoro.

“Hindi kayo pang opensiba unless atakihin kayo at kailangan ninyong depensahan ang mga sarili ninyo. Kayo ay andyan para tumulong na mapanatili ang kapayapaan,” Felicidario said.

“Kayo ay andyan para tumulong sa pamahalaan at lalong lalo na sa mga komunidad na maayos ang mga rido na kung minsan nagiging dahilan sa mabagal na pag unlad ng isang komunidad,” he added.

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2347/jpst-heightens-role-as-peacekeeping-force

MILF: OPAPP, TESD-Tawi-Tawi conduct orientation on skills training to MILF decommissioned combatants

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 8, 2021): OPAPP, TESD-Tawi-Tawi conduct orientation on skills training to MILF decommissioned combatants (By Raffie S. Pasingan, Luwaran)

8JULY

IN PHOTO: OPAPP, TESD-MBHTE with MILF-Decommissioned Combatants in Tawi-Tawi on July 3, 2021, at TTSAT- Covered Court, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi

2BONGAO TAWI-TAWI. July 5. 2021. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) in partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development (TESD-MBHTE) conducted an orientation to Decommissioned MILF Combatants, Saturday, July 3 at Tawi-Tawi School of Arts and Trade covered court, Bongao, this province.

Participants were 143 former MILF Combatants of Tawi-Tawi who were part of the second phase of decommissioning program on March 2020 at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Officials from the OPAPP led by Ms. Sanabila Sabil along with Dr. Maryam Nuruddin, Tawi-Tawi Provincial Director, Technical Education and Skills Development (TESD-MBHTE) conducted the activity to orient the former MILF-Combatants regarding the short-term capacity intervention on Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Focal persons led by Jurist Doctor Saliakram M. Adduh, Mr. Radzhadin Ahang and Mr. Aldaim Kasim from the Office of MP Prof. Abdulla A. Ahang, who is at the time the MILF Provincial Political Committee of Sama Province assisted in facilitating the activity so that they will be fully aware of the short-term program.

Mr. Tony Said, Tawi-Tawi Provincial Coordinator on Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (MILF- CCCH) and also the focal person on Decommissioned Combatants also helped in facilitating the program.

The Municipal Government of Bongao was represented by Mr. Jun Dail. CSO Officer from Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) Mr. Tirso S. Tahir was also present.

For his part, Mr. Moses I. Dalagan, TESD Scholarship focal person, underlined the significance of TESD Programs and their corresponding mechanisms on how to avail the program and urged those interested to visit the TESD Provincial office in Bongao.

In their message, both OPAPP and TESD Officials encouraged the Decommissioned Combatants and other interested Bangsamoro Individuals to avail the skills training program which is being rolled out by TESD, Tawi-Tawi.

The Decommissioned Combatants of Tawi-Tawi expressed their profound gratitude to individuals and government agencies who initiated the conduct of the activity and vowed to sustain the gains of the Peace process by supporting the BARMM Regional Government and its programs.

The TESD short-term program is a component and integral part of a socio-economic package to be allotted by the Philippine Government through OPAPP to MILF Decommissioned Combatants as stipulated in the peace agreement to enable the former combatants to enjoy the dividends of peace and live a peaceful life.

https://www.luwaran.com/news/article/2348/opapp--tesd-tawi-tawi-conduct-orientation-on-skills-training-to-milf-decommissioned-combatants

14 openly disavow CPP-NPA in Aklan

From Panay News (Jul 9, 2021): 14 openly disavow CPP-NPA in Aklan

Before a Philippine Army official, former supporters and sympathizers of communist rebels pledge allegiance to the government of the Philippines during a ceremony in Libacao, Aklan on June 8, 2021. PRO-6 PHOTO

LIBACAO, Aklan – Fourteen residents here publicly withdrew their support from the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

In a program yesterday at around 10 a.m. at Janlud High School in Barangay Janlud, the former rebel supporters said they decided to heed the call of the government to “surrender.”

They initially sought the help of local government officials and were eventually referred to the Libacao police station.

Their surfacing brought to 32 the number of rebel-associated people who yielded to authorities since last month.

In interviews, most of them revealed their support to the rebels came in the form of allowing the insurgents to sleep in their houses, giving them food supplies and money.

During the program yesterday, the 14 persons were debriefed. They also executed judicial affidavit.

The surenderers would still undergo profiling then recommended for inclusion to the Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.

Aklan Police Provincial Office led by director Police Colonel Ramir Perlito Perlas facilitated yesterday’s program supported by the Philippine Army (represented by Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Jason Estrada, 12 Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer), Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales (representing the Department of Justice), and Mayor Charito Navarrosa.

The withdrawal of support is seen to further weaken the CPP-NPA in Aklan.

Early this month, in the adjacent province of Capiz, an encounter between Philippine Army soldiers and rebels in Sitio Tabiay, Barangay Buri, Tapaz led to the recovery of materials used in making anti-personnel mines.

“These are proof that the NPA continue to use landmines against Army troops in clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL),” said Brigadier General Marion Sison, commander of the 301st Brigade.

The NPA’s purpose in using anti-personnel mines indiscriminately, he said, is to destroy lives, including those of innocent civilians.

“These terrorists want to brutally harm our troops and civilians, a blatant violation of the International Humanitarian Law,” said Sison.

https://www.panaynews.net/14-openly-disavow-cpp-npa-in-aklan/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Mga sasakyan-panghimpapawid ng AFP: Lumilipad na mga kabaong?

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 7, 2021): Mga sasakyan-panghimpapawid ng AFP: Lumilipad na mga kabaong?

Mistulang lumilipad na mga kabaong ang mga helikopter at eroplano ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Bumagsak noong Hulyo 4 ang isang C-130 Hercules transort plane ng militar sa Barangay Bangkal, Patikul, Sulu, na nagtamo ng pinakamalalang kaswalti sa nakaraang tatlong dekada.

Ayon sa pinakahuling ulat, umabot na sa 52 ang kumpirmadong namatay kabilang ang 49 na sundalo at tatlong residente ng Sityo Amman ng naturang barangay. Umaabot sa 53 ang sugatan at ginagamot ngayon, kung saan 49 sundalo at apat ang sibilyan.

Ang segunda-manong eroplanong ito ay binili ng rehimen noon lamang Enero mula sa US. Pinaglumaan na ang karamihan sa mga kagamitang pandigma ng AFP, kabilang ang mga barko at eroplanong ginamit pa noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig at sa gerang agresyon ng US sa Vietnam mula dekada 1960 hanggang 1970.

Naganap ang insidente ilang araw matapos ipinatigil ni Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana noong Hunyo 24 ang pagpalipad naman ng mga Black Hawk helicopter pagkatapos na bumagsak ang isa nito sa isang misyong pagsasanay sa Capas, Tarlac.

Bumagsak ang combat utility helicopter noong Hunyo 23 ng gabi pagkatapos mag-take off ito mula sa dating base militar. Kinabukasan, natagpuan ng mga pangkat ng search and rescue ang labi ng helikopter sa may Crow Valley, Tarlac. Patay lahat ang anim na sakay nito.

Ang bumagsak na S-70i Black Hawk ay isa sa 16 na binili ng Pilipinas sa Poland noong 2019. Ang anim nito, kabilang ang bumagsak, ay dumating sa bansa noong Nobyembre 2020. Dumating ang limang helikopter noong Hunyo at ang huling bats ay darating sa katapusan nitong taon.

Bahagi ang biniling 16 na Black Hawk sa $241-milyong kontrata (o ₱11.8 bilyon sa palitang $1=₱48.85) sa pagitan ng mga gubyerno ng Pilipinas at ng Poland na nilagdaan noong 2019. Gawa ang mga ito ng PZL Mielec ng Poland, subsidyaryo ng kumpanyang US na Lockheed Martin. (Napilitang bumili sa Poland ang Pilipinas dahil tinanggihan ito ng gubyerno ng Canada bunsod ng malalang rekord sa paglabag sa karapatang-tao ng rehimeng Duterte.)

Sa kabuuan, may 18 patay at apat na sugatang mga piloto at sundalo sa sunud-sunod na pagbagsak ng helikopter simula noong Hulyo 2020 hanggang Hunyo 23 nitong taon.

Noong Hulyo 2020, apat na mga piloto at sundalo ang napatay at isa pa ang nasugatan pagkatapos bumagsak ang isang Huey helicopter habang lumilipad sa isang pagsasanay sa gabing operasyon sa hilagang Luzon.

Pagpasok ng taong 2021, bumagsak naman noong Enero ang isang UH-1H Huey helicopter ng 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing sa Bulonay, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. Patay ang pitong sakay nito. Sumusuporta noon ang helikopter sa operasyong kombat ng 8th IB laban sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan.

Noong Abril, namatay ang isang piloto ng Philippine Air Force habang nasugatan ang tatlong iba pa pagkatapos bumagsak ang sinasakyang MG520 helicopter gunship ng 15th Strike Wing sa bayan ng Jetafe, Bohol.

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

https://cpp.ph/2021/07/07/mga-sasakyan-panghimpapawid-ng-afp-lumilipad-na-mga-kabaong/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Nang busugin ng diktador ang kanyang mga halimaw

Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 7, 2021): Nang busugin ng diktador ang kanyang mga halimaw

Hanggang sa nalalabing mga buwan ng upisyal na termino ni Rodrigo Duterte, nagpapatuloy ang pagpabor niya sa kanyang armadong mga tauhan, laluna sa Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Ang malimit niyang ituring na “mga sundalo ko” ay ipinapalayaw sa madalas na pagbisita sa mga kampo, pag-udyok sa kanila na pumatay at manggahasa, at maging sa pagprayoridad na mabakunahan. Nangunguna rin sa mga pabor ni Duterte ang pagbubusog sa kanila sa salapi at kapangyarihan.

Bilang pangunahing haligi ng kanyang teroristang paghahari, todo ang pagpapalaki at pagpapalakas ni Duterte sa militar at pulis. Humigit kumulang 400,000 ang kasalukuyang bilang ng mga sundalo at iba pang tauhang panseguridad. Bumibilang lamang sila ng may 347,000 noong magsimula si Duterte sa pagkapangulo. Gayundin, pinalaki ang bilang ng mga CAFGU, na target pang paramihin ng rehimen hanggang 79,000 mula noong 2020. Noong 2015 ay nasa 56,000 lamang ang bilang ng mga paramilitar. Sa kasalukuyan, may 190 heneral ang AFP at 146 ang Philippine National Police (PNP).

Ang pagpapalaki sa militar ay tulak ng desperasyon ni Duterte na sugpuin ang armadong rebolusyon. Noong 2016, ang Philippine Army na siyang pinakamalaking sangay ng AFP, ay bumibilang lamang ng may 81,000 tauhan na nahahati sa 87 batalyong pangmaniobra. Ipinakat noong Oktubre 2017 ang 88th IB bilang una sa karagdagang 20-35 batalyon na tinarget buuin ni Duterte. Ang 99th IB, isa sa mga pinakabagong batalyon, ay nakaistasyon ngayon sa Fort Magsaysay sa Nueva Ecija.

Pondo at mando ng US

Naging madali ang pagtupad ni Duterte sa kanyang balak dahil tinustusan ito ng US. Mula 2016-2019, tumanggap ang rehimen ng ₱27.2-bilyong ayudang militar. Kabilang dito ang ₱13.1-bilyong halaga ng mga armas at kagamitang militar. Inaabangan pa ng rehimen ang karagdagang ₱9.8-bilyong ayuda para sa taong ito.

Kabilang sa pinondohan ng US ang pagbubuo ng 11th ID noong 2018 na sumasaklaw ngayon sa mga isla at karagatan ng Sulu at target punuan ng 4,500 personel. Bahagi ng dibisyon ang 1st Brigade Combat Team (BCT) ng Philippine Army na nakabatay sa istruktura at direktang inaarmasan ng US. Nag-oopereyt ito bilang yunit na kumpleto sa suportang panghimpapawid, mga kanyon, armored personnel carrier at iba pa. Ang 11th ID at mga BCT ay idinidirehe ng militar ng US sa tabing ng iba’t ibang pagsasanay-militar.

Kabilang din sa mga bagong binuong yunit ang Cyber Battalion ng armi para manguna sa mga pag-atake gamit ang internet.

Alinsunod sa pakikipagmabutihan ni Duterte sa China, nakatanggap din ang AFP ng mga ayudang militar mula sa China. Kabilang dito ang 6,000 ripleng Norinco noong 2016. Bahagi ng pakikipagribalan ng China sa US, puspusan din ang pagsisikap ng China na magkaroon ng malakas na impluwensya sa mga upisyal ng AFP upang kontrahin ang kontrol dito ng US. Makikita na mayroon na ring tipak sa loob ng AFP na bumabaling sa China, na nananalig sa umuusbong na kapangyarihan ng China sa rehiyon, o di kaya’y mga nakinabang sa kikbak sa maanomalyang mga kontrata ng gubyerno at napaburan sa negosyo ng mga sindikato ng droga at ismagling.

Pabuya sa mga berdugo

Mula 2016, pinaburan ni Duterte na itaas ang sweldo ng kanyang mga sundalo at pulis. Naipirmi niya ang kanilang katapatan sa dobleng paglaki ng buwanang sahod ng mga karaniwang kawal hanggang sa mga heneral. Mas malaki nang halos ₱6,000 ang agwat ng batayang sahod ng bagong sundalo (₱29,668) sa bagong-pasok na mga guro sa mga pampublikong paaralan. Ang karamihan sa mga bagong tanggap na mga nars naman ay nakapako pa rin sa ₱22,000-₱24,000 ang buwanang sweldo. Ginawa ang pagtaas ng batayang sweldo para umakit ng mas maraming rekrut. Sa kabila nito, hindi pa rin naaabot ng mga sangay ng AFP ang target na bilang ng rekrutment.

Tumatanggap ang mga sundalo at pulis ng samutsaring alawans at benepisyo para sa pagkain, damit, pabahay at iba pa. May hiwalay pang bayad ang pagsabak sa operasyon at pagkasangkot sa armadong labanan. Mas mataas ang kanilang take home pay o naiuuwing sweldo dahil hindi sila naghuhulog ng pensyon, di tulad ng iba pang empleyado ng gubyerno.

Tumatanggap ng hiwalay na allowance ang mga upisyal. Ang mga kapitan ay buwanang binibigyan ng ₱7,000 habang ₱35,000 sa pinakamataas na ranggong heneral. Wala pa rito ang mga gantimpala sa mga sundalong ginagawaran ng kung anu-anong medalya, na maaaring umabot sa ₱100,000 kada buwan.

Pero ang lahat ng ito ay maliit na halaga kumpara sa mas malalaking pabuya sa mga heneral kapalit ng katapatan sa diktador. Inilalagay sila ni Duterte sa mga susing pusisyon sa gubyerno matapos magretiro. Paborito niyang bigyan ng pusisyon ang mga heneral na dating naitalaga sa Davao. Matatagpuan ang mga dating upisyal sa hindi bababa sa 12 pusisyon sa gabinete, maliban pa sa mga nasa mabababang pusisyon.

Naglublob sa pondo ng bayan ang mga heneral at iba pang upisyal. Sa pagpadrino ni Duterte ay kinontrol niya agad ang Bureau of Customs (BOC) para sa madulas na pagpasok sa bansa ng iligal na droga at mga kontrabando. Nang mabulilyaso ang pinalusot ng dating hepe ng BOC na si Nicanor Faeldon na ₱6.5-bilyong halaga ng shabu, dalawang dating heneral pa rin ang magkasunod na ipinalit sa kanya.

Pawang mga dating upisyal ng militar at pulis din ang tatlong magkakasunod na itinalaga sa Bureau of Corrections para makontrol ang produksyon ng mga druglord na patuloy na nakapag-oopereyt mula sa loob ng bilangguan.

Noong 2017, pinaniniwalaang milyun-milyon ang ibinulsa ng kasanggang mga heneral ni Duterte sa maanomalyang pagbili ng dalawang barkong pandigma ng Philippine Navy. Mismong si Duterte ay sangkot sa korapsyon sa ₱16-bilyong halagang kontrata. Ang mga alagad niyang heneral din ang nakinabang sa pakitang-taong pagsisante sa karibal na mga upisyal sa ngalan ng umano’y gera kontra-korapsyon at “gera kontra-droga.”

(Ilalabas sa susunod na isyu ang ikalawang bahagi.)

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

https://cpp.ph/2021/07/07/nang-busugin-ng-diktador-ang-kanyang-mga-halimaw/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: Maj. Gen. de Leon’s cockeyed diatribe only exposed his gross ignorance

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 7, 2021): Maj. Gen. de Leon’s cockeyed diatribe only exposed his gross ignorance

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS ISLAND

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 07, 2021

Recently AFP Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Operations Major Gen. Edgardo de Leon in a state-sponsored interview ludicrously blathered about “hatred as primary weapon of CPP-NPA in pushing for change.”

The people, especially the toiling masses of workers and peasants, abhor the semi-colonial and semi-feudal ruling system represented by the fascist US-Duterte regime and fanatically defended by Gen. de Leon for the intolerable exploitation and oppression it brought on them.

The series of neoliberal economic programs implemented by Duterte further deteriorated the already destitute economic condition of the people and now made even worse by the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions. Unbridled corruption smoke-screened as urgent efforts to help the people brace themselves during the Covid-19 pandemic have landed the country with an P11 trillion total debt.

This abysmal condition drives the people to launch all forms of struggles to assert their democratic rights, demands and welfare. And in the process, especially in lieu of the brutal campaign and dirty war the regime unleashed to suppress their struggles, they come to grasp the necessity of armed revolution to fundamentally change the rotten system.

Clearly, Maj. Gen.de Leon is grossly ignorant of the fact that no amount of hate speeches and rhetoric can incite a revolution much more sustain it for more than five decades. This mentality also showed his contempt for the people whom he viewed as brainless and uneducated mobs who can easily be manipulated or brainwashed.

The objective situation for waging a revolution is more favorable than ever as Duterte imposes more imperialist neoliberal economic prescriptions to raise funds for the forthcoming elections and desperately cling to power through fascist means.

This has nothing to do with generating public hate as Maj. Gen. de Leon imagined.###

https://cpp.ph/statements/maj-gen-de-leons-cockeyed-diatribe-only-exposed-his-gross-ignorance/

CPP/NDF-Negros Island: NDF Negros slams AFP official on gross ignorance

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 7, 2021): NDF Negros slams AFP official on gross ignorance

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS ISLAND

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 07, 2021

The National Democratic Front (NDF) – Negros released a statement today responding to a state-sponsored interview of an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) aired last June 28 calling it a “cockeyed diatribe exposing gross ignorance.”

Ka Bayani Obrero slammed AFP Deputy Chief-of-Staff for Operations Major Gen. Edgardo de Leon for “ludicrously blathering about hatred as primary weapon of [the] CPP-NPA in pushing for change” saying that “it has nothing to do with generating public hate as de Leon imagined.”

“Clearly, Maj. Gen. de Leon is grossly ignorant of the fact that no amount of hate speeches and rhetoric can incite a revolution much more sustain it for more than five decades. This mentality also showed his contempt for the people whom he viewed as brainless and uneducated mobs easily manipulated or brainwashed,” said Obrero.

According to Obrero, the people, especially the toiling masses of workers and peasants, abhor the semi-colonial and semi-feudal ruling system represented by the fascist US-Duterte regime and fanatically defended by de Leon for the intolerable exploitation and oppression it brought them.

Obrero pointed out that the series of neoliberal economic programs implemented by Duterte further deteriorated the already destitute economic condition of the people and now made even worse by the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions.

Unbridled corruption smoke-screened as urgent efforts to help the people brace themselves during the Covid-19 pandemic have landed the country with an P11 trillion total debt, said Obrero.

The NDF spokesman elucidated that “this abysmal condition drives the people to launch all forms of struggles to assert their democratic rights, demands and welfare. And in the process, especially in lieu of the brutal campaign and dirty war the regime unleashed to suppress their struggles, they come to grasp the necessity of armed revolution to fundamentally change the rotten system.”

“The objective situation for waging a revolution is more favorable than ever as Duterte imposes more imperialist neoliberal economic prescriptions to raise funds for the forthcoming elections and desperately cling to power through fascist means,” he remarked.###

https://cpp.ph/statements/ndf-negros-slams-afp-official-on-gross-ignorance/

CPP/NPA-Central Negros: Mangunguma kag indi NPA ang ginpatay sang mga barbarong suldado sang 62nd IB

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 7, 2021): Mangunguma kag indi NPA ang ginpatay sang mga barbarong suldado sang 62nd IB

JB REGALADO

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-CENTRAL NEGROS (LEONARDO PANALIGAN COMMAND)

NEGROS ISLAND REGIONAL OPERATIONAL COMMAND (APOLINARIO GATMAITAN COMMAND)

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

JULY 07, 2021

Lubos nga ginakondenar sang Leonardo Panaligan Command- New People’s Army (LPC-NPA) nga prenteng gerilya sa sentral negros ang isa naman ka kaso sang brutal nga pagpatay sa isa ka mangunguma sa syudad sang Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

Ang biktima ginkilala kay Randy Tapales, isa ka soltero kag residente sang So. Hinobaan, Brgy. Luz, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. Si Tapales ang nagapanglakaton lamang papuli nga naga-isahanon sang gin-ambusan sang mga pasistang tropa sang 62nd Infantry Battalion Philippine Army sa So. Pitik-pitik, Brgy. Luz sang nasambit nga syudad sadtong Hulyo 4, 2021 alas 7:00 sang kagab-ihon.

Sa pagkamatuod, wala sang kamatuoran nga may nahitabo nga enkwentro sa tunga sang mga NPA kag tropa sang militar sang sini nga panahon. Kag subongman indi katapo sang NPA ang ila ginpatay nga si Tapales.

Antes pa man ang panghitabo, nakadawat na si Tapales sang mga pagpamahug sa iya nga seguridad kag ang mga kabatan-onan sa ila nga Brgy. kutob sa gin “red-tag” nga tigsuporta kag mga myembro kuno sang NPA kag nangin kabangdanan sang pagtago-tago kag indi na makapuyo ang mga ginpang “red-tag” sa ila nga puluy-an.

Mabaskog man nga ginakondenar sang LPC-NPA ang pagpalubong sang mga tropa militar sa bangkay ni Tapales sa diin gindingot sang pasistang sa pamilya mismo sang biktima ang kinamatarong nga makita ang patay nga lawas sini kag madala pauli sa ila balay bisan isa lang ka adlaw sa pihak nga naga pakitluoy na ini sa mga nasambit nga militar sa rason pa nga gusto ilipod ang matuod kahimtangan sg biktima nga halos natadtad sang bala kag nabulag na sa lawas ang ulo sini.

Indi makatarungan ang kasubong sini nga pagpatay sang mga berdugong militar sa isa ka pumuluyo. Ini ang nagbunga sang kahadlok kag lubos nga pagkahangawa sa kaseguriduhan nga mangabuhi sang mga mangunguma kag ordinaryong pumuluyo sa kapareho sini nga barbaro nga kalakasan sang mga militar kag berdugo nga mga pulisya.

Imbes nga sabton ang matuod nga problema sang kapigaduhon kag krisis sang pandemya ang atubangon sang pasistang rehimeng US-Duterte, tiraniya ang ginpalapnag sini sa bilog nga pumuluyo para pahipuson kag paludhon ang pumuluyo para mangin sunod-sunoran sa iya.

Ipabatyag ang bug-os nga kusog kag kaakig sa pasistang rehimeng Duterte. Kaupod sang malapad nga pumuluyong pigos kag ginahimuslan, nagapalayag ang LPC-NPA sang kasubo, kaakig kag simpatiya indi lamang sa brutal nga pagpatay kay Randy Tapales kundi sa tanan nga nangin biktima sang ekstra-hudisyal nga pagpamatay kag iban pa nga porma sang pagpangtapak sang demokratikong kinamatarong sang mga pumuluyo sa idalum sang mapiguson nga laye sang Anti-terror Law, E.O 70 kag kurakot nga NTF-ELCAC.

Sobra na! Tama na! Maghiusa para pasabton si Duterte sang iya kriminalidad kag kapabayaan. Indi mahadlok nga maghimakas para tapuson ang nagakadunot na kag bangkarote nga Rehimen.

Hustisya para kay Randy Tapales!
Hustisya para sa tanan nga biktima sang tiraniyang US-Duterte nga Rehimen!

https://cpp.ph/statements/mangunguma-kag-indi-npa-ang-ginpatay-sang-mga-barbarong-suldado-sang-62nd-ib/