At least 9 dead, 3 injured in Magundanao ambush

From ABS-CBN (Feb 12, 2022): At least 9 dead, 3 injured in Magundanao ambush

At least 9 people were killed Saturday morning after they were ambushed at Kalumamis Village in Guindulugan town, Maguindanao.

The Maguindanao PNP said the group, led by a certain Peges Mamasainged, a.k.a. Commander Black Magic, was headed to Kitapok Village in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town when gunmen attacked them around 8:30 a.m.

They were headed to the village to allegedly settle a "rido" or clan war and celebrate a "kanduli" or thanksgiving.


Black Magic was among those killed, according to PNP Maguindanao spokesperson Police Capt. Fhaeyd Cana, while 3 others were injured.

Cana said authorities have an idea who the perpetrators were.

"Ang suspect, a group of certain a.k.a. Jordan pati ’yong anak niya na si a.k.a Nilong. One of the allegations is that itong grupo at grupo nitong victim ay mayroon na silang previous rido," Cana said.

Meanwhile, Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces spokesperson Von Alhaq said Black Magic was a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

 
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/12/22/at-least-9-dead-in-magundanao-ambush

9 dead in ambush in Maguindanao

From GMA News Online (Feb 12, 2022): 9 dead in ambush in Maguindanao (By FERDINANDH CABRERA

Personnel from the Philippine National Police SOCO team inspect the site of an ambush conducted by unidentified armed men in Guindulungan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning, February 12, 2022. Nine people died in the incident. Ferdinandh Cabrera

Nine people were killed and died on the spot when unidentified armed men staged an ambush on a convoy of maroon and black pick-up trucks in Guindulungan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning.

The news was confirmed by Guindulungan Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr.

Initial reports said a Kumander Pags Mamasainged alias "Black Magic" was allegedly the target of the ambush.

Maguindanao Police spokesperson Police Lieutenant Fayeed Cana said Mamasainged's group aboard three SUVs was on the way to Barangay Kitapok in Datu Saudi Ampatuan for a "rido" settlement with the family of a Jordan Mamalintang when the incident occurred in Barangay Kalumamis.

The Philippine National Police is conducting an investigation to determine the identity of the persons behind the incident and their motive.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/821642/9-dead-in-ambush-in-maguindanao/story/

Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Seizure of high-powered firearms further weakens NPA in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

SEIZED FROM REBELS. Some of the 34 high-powered firearms recovered by soldiers in a remote village in Pinabacdao, Samar on Wednesday (Feb. 9, 2022). This is the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas, the Philippine Army said. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

The recent recovery of 34 high-powered firearms from the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pinabacdao, Samar on February 9 will further cripple the communist terrorist group, a military official said on Friday.

Capt. Ryan Layug, the spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said the recovered firearms in remote Bugho village Wednesday was the biggest seizure of firearms in Eastern Visayas.

“In the entire country, we have not heard bigger than this. This will reduce their capability to do terroristic acts like extortion and attack on government troops and civilians,” Layug said in a phone interview.

The firearms recovered were 24 M16 rifles, two M4 carbine assault rifles, seven China-made AK47 variant rifles, and an M14 rifle.

Layug said the rebels buried the assault rifles since they do not have enough manpower to carry them.

“This a result of reduction of manpower since many of their members have already surrendered to the government,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Troops from the Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade scoured the area, acting on tips from residents on the presence of armed men.

The town of Pinabacdao, around 46 kilometers away from Tacloban City, is known for frequent sightings of NPA members.

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

The Anti-Terrorism Council also formally designated the National Democratic Front as a terrorist organization on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA that was created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167554

Bombing attempt at Maguindanao power firm compound foiled

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Bombing attempt at Maguindanao power firm compound foiled (By Edwin Fernandez)

FOILED BOMBING ATTEMPT. A powerful improvised bomb left inside the compound of the Maguindanao Electric Cooperative is safely deactivated by bomb experts after it was found by a utility worker in Datu Odin Sinsuat on Thursday afternoon (Feb. 10, 2022). The bomb was rigged from a 60mm mortar round with a mobile phone as a triggering device. (Photo courtesy of Maguindanao PPO)

An alert utility worker of the Maguindanao Electric Cooperative (Magelco) here prevented what could have been a bloody Thursday afternoon at work after he found a bomb and alerted authorities about it, police said.

In an interview Friday, Capt. Fahyed Cana, the spokesperson of the Maguindanao provincial police, said the improvised explosive device (IED) bomb was found by a janitor near the Magelco’s main office at past 2 p.m.

“He noticed electrical wiring and a mobile phone attached to a box and suspected it was a bomb,” Cana said.

Members of the Army’s bomb disposal unit safely defused the IED using a water disruptor.

Cana said the explosive was fashioned from a 60mm mortar round with a mobile phone as a triggering mechanism.

Police probers are digging deeper into the matter since the Magelco compound, being a vital utility, is supposedly well secured.

Cana said investigators are looking into other possible motives for the attempt.

The component and power of the explosive clearly showed that it was meant to kill or harm people, he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167566

Another NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Another NPA rebel killed in Surigao Norte clash (By Alexander Lopez)

LOST LIFE. An NPA rebel, identified as Ricky Vocales Rosaldo alias Kenz, is killed during an encounter with the troops of 30IB on Thursday (Feb. 10, 2022) in the hinterlands of Barangay Budlingin, Alegria, Surigao del Norte. The government troops also recovered from the site an anti-personnel mine, subversive documents, and other war materiel. (Photo courtesy of 30IB)

A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed Thursday, the second this week, in a series of encounters with troopers of the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

In a statement Friday, the 30IB said the latest skirmish in Barangay Budlingin occurred as the troops continued their military operations after the February 8 encounter in Barangay Alipao that also resulted in the death of an NPA leader-cum-bomb expert.

“The 30IB troopers encountered on Thursday an undetermined number of the combined forces of Guerrilla Front (GF) 16C1 led by Roel Neniel, alias Jacob and GF 16C2 headed by Alberto Castañeda, alias JD of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA,” the 30IB said.

The 30IB identified the slain NPA rebel in Thursday’s encounter as Ricky Vocales Rosaldo alias Kenz, a member of GF-16C1.

“The remains of the slain NPA rebel were brought by our troopers to a funeral parlor in Barangay Pongtud in Alegria for proper disposition,” the military said.

Soldiers also recovered from the site an anti-personnel mine, a detonating device, a blasting cap, M16 rifle magazines, ammunition for M16 and AK-47 rifles, assorted medicine, food, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

Lt. Col. Ryan Charles Callanta, the 30 IB commander, ordered his troops to continue the military operation and hunt down the remaining NPA rebels in the area.

“I commend the bravery and dedication of 30IB troopers in the performance of their duties and responsibilities,” Callanta said.

He also assured the residents of Alegria and Surigao del Norte of the 30IB’s continued services by providing security in communities for the attainment of genuine peace and development.

“For the remaining NPA rebels in the area, you still have the chance to change your lives. Return to the government and your families,” Callanta said.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167561

‘Show of force’ an NPA extortion ploy as 2022 polls near: IPMR

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): ‘Show of force’ an NPA extortion ploy as 2022 polls near: IPMR (By Alexander Lopez)

EXTORTION PLOY. Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, believes that the New People's Army's “show of force” staged on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022 in Cortes town was a reminder to politicians to pay their “permit to campaign and permit to win” to the rebels. Maca urged politicians, political parties, and businesses in Surigao del Sur not to give in to the extortion demands of the rebels. (Photo grabbed from Rico Hayahay Maca FB Page)

The New People’s Army’s (NPA) blocking off a section of the highway in Cortes, Surigao del Sur was an extortion ploy to remind candidates running in the upcoming polls of their presence in the area, an indigenous community leader said Friday.

Datu Rico Maca, the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, said Thursday’s “show of force” staged by the NPA in Cortes town was aimed to prompt local politicians to pay the “permit to campaign and permit to win.”

“Extortion is the primary reason for that show staged by the NPA rebels. They are reminding the politicians that they are still around and that they will pursue with their extortion activities as the campaign starts and the election is nearing,” Maca told Philippine News Agency on Friday.

An undetermined number of NPA rebels blocked a portion of the national highway Thursday morning in Sitio Lucbon, Barangay Mabahin of Cortes town where they flagged down and threatened motorists.

A residence of a retired Army officer in the area was also ransacked by the rebels.

“The ransacking of houses was only secondary. The NPA rebels were really reminding the politicians, and even threatening them, to pay permits for campaigns,” Maca said.

The IP leader urged the candidates and political parties not to give in to the threats and demands of the rebels.

“If you will pay, then you are contributing to the useless cause of these bandits. You are, in a way, taking part to strengthen the terroristic activities of these insurgents. Your payment will further escalate the killings, lootings, human rights violations, and other terroristic activities that the NPA rebels are known for,” Maca said.

The “show of force,” he added, was also directed at companies and business groups in the province.

“They also targeted the businesses here in Surigao del Sur. The show was a direct reminder for them to pay revolutionary taxes,” Maca said.

He also advised the businesses in the area to refrain from giving extortion dues to the rebels.

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

The National Democratic Front has been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167567

Death of minors due to NPA ambush in N. Samar 'unjustifiable'

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Death of minors due to NPA ambush in N. Samar 'unjustifiable' (By Perla Lena)

CALL FOR JUSTICE. Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) spokesperson, Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales said on Friday (Feb. 11, 2022) that the death of two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8 during an ambush by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) has no justification. Gonzales called on the people of Northern Samar to unite in a common goal of putting an end to the local communist armed conflict. (PNA file photo)

The Western Visayas Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF6-ELCAC) has chided the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and demanded to take responsibility for the death of two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8.

In a statement on Friday, task force spokesperson, Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Flosemer Chris Gonzales, said there is no justification for what the communist terrorists have done.

The children were in the vicinity gathering coconuts when the communist terrorists ambushed the government troops.

“Innocent lives were lost. Two families lost their sons on that day. We do not take such things lightly. We demand accountability and responsibility. We demand that justice be served to the heartless CPP-NPA terrorists who killed the two children,” he said.

The task force also called on the people of Northern Samar to unite in a common goal of putting an end to the local communist armed conflict and no longer wait for their children to fall victim to the hands of the terrorists.

“It is our aspiration and our prayer, that our people come to realize that a just and lasting peace can only be achieved if we put an end to the communist insurgency for good at the soonest possible time,” he added.

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.

The NDF has also been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167577

Davao Oro town 2 remote villages receive BDP projects

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): Davao Oro town 2 remote villages receive BDP projects (By Che Palicte)

BDP PROJECT. Barangay Magangit in Maco town, Davao de Oro receives a newly constructed health center from the government's Barangay Development Program (BDP) under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, on Feb. 8, 2022. The program aims to eradicate the root causes of the insurgency, poverty, disease, lack of education and opportunities, and social injustice in remote communities across the country identified to have been influenced by the communist ideology. (Photo courtesy of Davao de Oro PIO)

Two remote barangays in Maco, Davao de Oro received new health centers worth PHP5.6 million from the government’s Barangay Development Program (BDP) this week, the provincial government said Friday.

Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy said barangays Magangit and Sangab in Maco town acquired the health centers on February 8 and 9, respectively, with the hope of providing residents with their health care needs.

Uy said the villages were former strongholds of armed rebels, but with the help of the “whole-of-nation approach” or the convergence of national and local government agencies and the security sector, they are insurgency-free.

In 2021, the province received an allocation of PHP1.3 billion from the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) intended for the BDP, of which PHP20 million has been earmarked for each of the 65 barangays that were cleared of communist insurgency.

A hallmark program of the NTF-ELCAC with the end goal of bringing development to former conflict-prone communities, the BDP forms part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach in fighting the rebellion waged by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) in the countryside.

The program aims to eradicate the root causes of the insurgency, poverty, disease, lack of education and opportunities, and social injustice in remote communities across the country identified to have been influenced by the communist ideology.

In 2021 the BDP targeted to rehabilitate and develop 822 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas formerly established influenced by the CPP-NPA-NDF in many parts of the country. This year, 1,406 barangays have been identified to benefit from the BDP.

“The provincial government puts emphasis on the importance of the establishment of health care facilities, especially in far-flung areas, to easily access basic health services for all the constituents of the barangay,” Uy said.

Barangay Magangit chief Veneranda Benaning expressed appreciation to the government for finally seeing their village with a new health center through the BDP.

“We thank the government for this big project, especially since we dreamed of having a health center here in our barangay,” she said. “Through the NTF-ELCAC, they made our dream come true.”

Magangit also received a daycare center worth PHP1.5 million that was funded through the province’s 20 percent development fund.

Barangay Sangab chief Delbert Canedo likewise expressed gratitude for the newly constructed health center in their area where residents could benefit from efficient and quality health services from the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167592

JTF Bicolandia condemns NPA over CamSur explosion

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): JTF Bicolandia condemns NPA over CamSur explosion (By Connie Calipay)

EXPLOSION SITE. The area where the New People's Army (NPA) detonated an anti-personnel mine in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Thursday (Feb. 10, 2022). Four civilians, including a minor, and a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) were wounded in the incident. (Photo courtesy of PRO-5)

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia has condemned the New People's Army (NPA) for detonating an anti-personnel mine (APM) that wounded four civilians, including a minor, and a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Thursday morning.

Maj. Gen. Alex Luna, commander of JTF Bicolandia, said in a statement on Friday the incident is a clear violation of the Anti-Terrorism Law and International Humanitarian Law.

"Gayunpaman, pinapaalalahanan po natin ang ating mga kababayan na maging mapagmatyag sa kanilang mga komunidad upang maiwasan natin ang anumang mapagpinsalang gawain ng teroristang NPA (Nevertheless, we are reminding the public to be vigilant in their communities to ensure that any destructive move by the NPA could be avoided)," Luna said.

Meanwhile, Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol) Director, Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, has ordered the Libmanan municipal police to conduct a thorough investigation of the explosion.

A police report identified the wounded victims as “Jeffrey”, a minor; Melvin Acabado, 57, a resident of Barangay Mambulo Nuevo, Libmanan; Ria Ables, 19, of Barangay Gugon, Camaligan; Joseph de Lima, 28, of Barangay Sagrada, Minalabac; and John Lee Basangit, 26, a Cafgu member from Barangay Paolbo, Canaman.

Estomo assured the public that they would monitor any suspicious activity in the nearby villages and conduct an in-depth investigation into the incident.

“Tayo po ay naglalatag na ng karagdagang pulis sa lugar para subaybayan ang mga kahinahinalang pagkilos sa lugar at para na rin maiwasan ang takot ng mga residente. Wala po kayong dapat ipag-alala sapagkat nakahanda ang pulisya upang kayo ay dipensahan (We have assigned additional police personnel in the area to monitor suspicious and unusual activities and allay the fears of the residents. You don't have to worry because our police force is ready to defend you)," he said.

Estomo also appealed to the public to give any information that could speed up their investigation.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (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/1167620

NPA rebels ‘cowards’ for killing even children: NTF-ELCAC

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11, 2022): NPA rebels ‘cowards’ for killing even children: NTF-ELCAC (By Lade Jean Kabagani)

Catubig, Northern Samar (Google map)

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Friday condemned the recent "purposive" attack of the New People's Army (NPA) that killed two children in Barangay Roxas, Catubig, Northern Samar on February 8.

In a statement, NTF-ELCAC spokesperson for Social Media Affairs and Sectoral Concerns, Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, also extended her condolences to the families of Andre Mercado, 12, and Leandro Alivio, 13, who were killed when rebels belonging to the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), ambushed government troops.

She said the insurgents are “cowards who could only take on children” and deprive them of a safe place “where they can grow up, fulfill their destinies and be the strong pillars of our democracy”.

"Our hearts lie broken and we are awash in rage at the murder by the terrorist CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front). Terrorists opened fire and purposely targeted the children who were in the vicinity of a firefight with government troops who were in hot pursuit of them," Badoy said.

She narrated that instead of pointing their guns at the soldiers, "these violent extremists pointed their guns at the two boys and their other companions -- two of them minors as well -- and opened fire”.

Badoy said the violent attacks of communist groups "are not anymore about pure political differences, but simple terrorism."

"Our children have long been sacrificed at the altar of this inhumane and brutal ideology, communism, that has targeted the most helpless among us: the poorest of the poor, our children, our indigenous peoples. And they have held our country hostage," she added.

Badoy called on the public to stand and unite with the NTF-ELCAC in putting an end to communist insurgency.

She said children deserve to play in a safe and peaceful place.

"We, therefore, enjoin our people to stand united with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and bring to an even fuller vigor the whole of nation approach that will put behind bars the leaders of this terrorist organization and finally put an end to this bloody and tragic chapter in our country’s history," Badoy said.

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.

The NDF has also been formally designated as a terrorist organization by the Anti-Terrorism Council on June 23, 2021, citing it as “an integral and inseparable part” of the CPP-NPA created in April 1973.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1167603

CPP/Ang Bayan: Makabayan Coalition declares support for Leni-Kiko tandem

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Makabayan Coalition declares support for Leni-Kiko tandem

 

This article is available in PilipinoBisaya

February 07, 2022

The Makabayan Coalition declared its support for the Leni Robredo-Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan presidential and vice-presidential tandem in the upcoming May 2022 elections. This was after the formal endorsement by 1Sambayan on January 28 of the senatorial run of Atty. Neri Colmenares of Makabayan.

1Sambayan was formed in March 2021 as a coalition of organizations and individuals opposing Rodrigo Duterte’s rule, and united with the aim of defeating the Duterte clique in the 2022 elections. The 1Sambayan supports the presidential candidacy of Vice Pres. Robredo.

The Makabayan’s endorsement of the Leni-Kiko tandem is an “important development in unifying all democratic forces to defeat Marcos and Duterte,” said Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes.

This symbolizes the united struggle of various groups and sectors to oppose attempts of the Marcoses and Duterte to return to Malacañang. Makabayan sees that Robredo has the highest chance to defeat the Marcos-Duterte tandem.
Common stand on issues

In a press release on January 29, the Makabayan Coalitions stated the grounds and conditions for endorsing the Leni-Kiko tandem. It said these include, “common stand on issues, track record of candidates, and the very important struggle to oppose defeat the Marcos-Duterte tandem.”

Among the common points is the plan to implement a scientific and humanitarian pandemic response, promotion of the rights of workers and fighting contractualization, and upholding the rights of farmers to land. Both parties have the same stand with regards to opposing human rights violations, and upholding the sovereignty of the country and its rights in West Philippine Sea.

It supports the plan of the tandem to review the cases of elderly and sick political prisoners and consider their release based on humanitarian grounds. Both parties support the call to renew the franchise of ABS-CBN. They have the same stand on defending the environment, national minorities, Filipino farmers and fisherfolk by reviewing and revising laws and policies on mining. There are similarities on their stand to review the closure and re-accredit Lumad schools. Robredo pledged to review the structure and practices of the NTF-Elcac in the face of Maka­bayan’s stance for its abolition.

Both parties agree to continue peace negotiations and hold accountable government officials involved in human rights violations, and allow the International Criminal Court to subject Duterte and his cohorts to trial. Robredo is pushing for electoral and political reforms to oppose abuse of power, promote people’s participation, and give them a voice.

[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/2022/02/07/makabayan-coalition-declares-support-for-leni-kiko-tandem/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Justice for murdered revolutionaries

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Justice for murdered revolutionaries

 

This article is available in PilipinoBisaya

February 07, 2022

Pedro Codaste (Ka Gonyong), 72, was convalescing when he was abducted, tortured and killed by 4th ID soldiers. Since August 2021, he has been detached from a unit of the New People’s Army (NPA) and has been living in a house in Bukidnon to recover. He was abducted along with Ka Sandro between January 19 and January 21. The military made it appear that the two were killed during an encounter on January 21 in Barangay Halagay, Impasug-Ong, Bukidnon. No such encounter took place in the area on that day.

The killing of Ka Gonyong is the latest incident in the Duterte re­gime’s long list of crimes of murdering peace consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and revolutionary leaders.
Liquidation operation

Duterte ordered the military and police to carry out liquidation operations and “take no prisoners” against peace consultants and revolutionary leaders, starting 2020.

From 2019, at least 20 were brutallly killed by armed elements of the fascist regime. Victims include Julius Giron (Ka Nars), Jorge Madlos (Ka Oris), Menandro Villaneuva (Ka Bok), Antonio Cabanatan (Ka Manlimbasog), Randall Echanis, Eugenia Magpantay (Ka Fiel) and Agaton Topacio (Ka Boy), Florenda Yap (Ka Osang). Mario Caraig (Ka Jethro), Dennis Rodinas (Ka Mayen), Leonido Nabong (Ka Charo), Randy Malayao, Alvin Luque (Ka Joaquin), Reynaldo Bocala (Ka Minoy), Fr. Rustico Tan, Kerima Tariman (Ka Ella), Sandra Reyes (Ka Kaye) and Jhon Niebres Peñaranda (Ka Parts Bagani). Majority of these killings were perpetrated in 2020 and 2021.

All of the victims were killed in cold-blood. Many were abducted or illegally arrested and tortured before being killed. Others were shot during “raid operations” in houses where they were staying. Other victims of liquidation were captured in battle and rendered hors de combat before being executed.

Most of these crimes were brazenly carried out by uniform soldiers and policemen. To cover up the crime, state forces make it appear that the victims were killed in encounters. Military and police officers peddle lies that the victims fought back and died in battle. Some of the victims were killed by state agents. There has been no thorough investigation into any of these cases and cadavers have not been autopsied to determine the actual circumstances of the victims’ death. In many cases, the AFP and PNP deliberately denied family access to lawyers and information.

Among the 20 victims recorded by Ang Bayan, 12 were aged 60 years old and had no capacity to fight back. Others were recovering from illnesses.
Violation of CARHRIHL, JASIG and laws of war

The killing of NDFP peace consultants violates the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG) which guarantees the rights and safety of individuals involved in peace negotiations. It also violates the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) which ensures the rights and humane treatment of those not taking part in the armed conflict.

This includes protection of their “life, dignity, human rights, political beliefs and their moral and physical integrity.” Likewise, “all persons deprived of their liberty for reasons related to the armed conflict shall be treated humanely,” and “should be considered for safe release on humanitarian or other reasonable grounds.”

Laws on the armed conflict also uphold the rights of persons hors de combat. The Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols strictly prohibit “torture, assaults upon personal dignity” of persons hors de combat. In combat situations, the injured or sick should be spared and given medical aid by enemy forces who take custody of them.

The US-Duterte’s relentless campaign of killing revolutionaries is part of its perverted belief that it could crush the revolution by killing revolutionaries. Contrary to this aim, the spilling of blood of revolutionaries only strengthens the people’s determination to advance the struggle for justice and social change.

[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/2022/02/07/justice-for-murdered-revolutionaries/

CPP/Ang Bayan: NPA mounts 23 offensives in 2 months

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): NPA mounts 23 offensives in 2 months

 

This article is available in PilipinoBisaya

February 07, 2022

The New People’s Army (BHB) mounted a series of armed actions in Bicol, Samar and Northeastern Mindanao from December 2021 until the first week of February.

On February 1, the NPA-Catanduanes (Nerissa San Juan Command) ambushed an operating police unit at Sitio Tucao, Barangay J.M. Alberto, San Miguel. Three pistols and other military equipment were seized during the operation. Team leader Police Sr. MSgt. Johnny Tiston was killed in the ambush.

Three were killed and five were wounded in an ambush by the NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command) against AFP troops operating in Barangay Recodo, Cawayan on January 28. On January 23, two soldiers were wounded in an ambush by the NPA-East Camarines Sur (Tomas Pilapil Command) against a unit of the 83rd IB in Barangay Pinamihagan, Lagonoy.

Eight other offensives were mounted by the NPA in Pilar in Sorsogon, Esperanza in Masbate, and Daraga, Camalig and Legazpi City in Albay in December 2021.

In Agusan Del Norte, a soldier was wounded in a sniping operation mounted by the NPA against a detachment of the 65th IB in P-5, Barangay Tagungabangan, Remedios T. Romualdez on February 1. Another soldier was wounded in an NPA ambush against a unit of the 29th IB on January 25 at Sitio Maranahao, Barangay Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City. On January 15, the NPA-Agusan del Sur ambushed a CAFGU element in Barangay San Isidro, Sibagat.

In December 2021, units of the NPA-Agusan del Norte mounted five harassment operations against AFP elements operating in Barangay Puting Bato, Cabadbaran City. This was after the deployment of 29th IB and 65th IB soldiers aboard 23 vehicles in the barangay, from December 12 to December 23, 2021. A soldier was killed during one of the offensives.

In Northern Samar, three 20th IB and police elements were killed, and another was wounded during an NPA offensive in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas on January 4. In Western Samar, two 46th IB elements were killed and another was wounded in an NPA offensive at Sitio Guinpondoan, Basey on January 12. The NPA also conducted harassment operations in Barangay Pelaon, Pinabacdao, Western Samar on January 25. Three 46th IB and CAFGU elements were killed.

Meanwhile, the people’s army meted revolutionary justice against Police Staff Sergeant Jorel D. Pajac in Barangay Calingnan, Catubig, Northern Samar on January 10. Pajac was a police intelligence officer involved in the establishment of intelligence networks in the barrios of Catubig and Las Navas.

[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/2022/02/07/npa-mounts-23-offensives-in-2-months/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Military bombs community in Cagayan

Propaganda article from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Military bombs community in Cagayan

 

This article is available in PilipinoBisaya

February 07, 2022

A bombing incident near a civilian community in Cagayan, as well as cases of illegal arrests and harassment against farmers and other civilians are among Ang Bayan’s reports in the past two weeks.

The AFP dropped 30 bombs in four rounds from 3 a.m. on January 29 in Barangay Sta. Clara, Gonzaga, Cagayan, even though there was no NPA unit in the area. Several hours of strafing followed. As a result, 66 families, majority of whom are Agta families, were forced to evacuate.

In Sorsogon, the 31st IB and police arrested Ruben Estremadura in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Bulusan on January 12. State forces also arrested Renaldo Gaan on January 28 in P4, Barangay Mahaba, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte. Both were accused of being members of the people’s army.

In Quezon, Gabriela-Southern Tagalog disclosed on January 21 information about “Belle,” a 15-year old girl raped by a soldier. Belle was abducted by soldiers of the 59th IB and was detained from June 27 to August 13, 2020. She was forced to admit that her mother, who is an activist fighting for the return of the coco levy funds to farmers, is a member of the NPA. The family of the victim decided to report the case to Gabriela due to relentless attacks by the AFP against them.

On January 28, armed goons of Gregorio Araneta III, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s brother-in-law, fired at members of peasant organizations conducting a fact-finding mission on the illegal demolition in Lupang Teresa, Barangay San Roque, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. The goons also seized the belongings and relief goods brought by the fact-finding team. Four houses and farmlands were demolished in the area on January 26.

[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/2022/02/07/military-bombs-community-in-cagayan/

CPP/Ang Bayan: Resist “local peace”

Propaganda editorial from the English language edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Feb 7, 2022): Resist “local peace”

This article is available in PilipinoBisaya

February 07, 2022

The tyrant Rodrigo Duterte, the fascist officials of the NTF-Elcac, generals and even some presidential candidates have been prattling about “local peace” to conceal the all-out terrorist attacks against civilians and their communities. This is contained in Duterte’s Executive Order 158 declaring “peace, reconciliation and unity” to deceptively counter the long-standing aspiration of the people for just and lasting peace. This is poised to be used over and over in the coming months to hide the heightening attacks against the people.

In reality, the US-Duterte regime’s “local peace” is nothing but a new name and form for old tactics of counterinsurgency and pacification. Its tactics of psywar and repression targeting civilians are as old the history of Philippine counterrevolution on the distorted pretext that one must “drain the ocean the catch the fish.”

The fascists declare that under “local peace,” people have “surrendered in the thousands,” when they are in fact victims of of the relentless campaign of armed intimidation, suppression, arrests and killings. Rights have been violated wholesale with people denied legal processes and the opportunity to defend themselves even under reactionary laws. This is also in violation of international humanitarian law as civilians are considered armed combatants and targets of armed suppression and surrender.

To the people, “local peace” promoted by the fascists and state terrorists is equivalent to the absence of peace in their communities which have been placed under siege, encircled and occupied by abusive military and police troops. The presence of fascists which subject their communities to the so-called Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) bring a permanent state of fear. Their every movement is surveilled, their homes and property are repeatedly subjected to search, commerce is restricted and the purchase of food items is limited. They are monitored when they work in the fields. They are prohibited from expanding their farms on the malicious claim that their produce goes to support the people’s army.

Formerly quiet communities are now enveloped in fear and disquiet. Village people are forcibly made to work to construct military and police camps. Treated like slaves, children and women are made to fetch water. The youth are exposed to a rotten culture by troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) who engage in drinking sprees, and promote cockfighting, drug use and pornography in the communities.

The old peace in the villages is shattered by drones that fly for hours overhead to observe their fields and mountains, and by helicopters and jet fighters that attack in the night or early morning to drop bombs and rain bullets. From their communities, vile soldiers fire their cannons to terrorize the masses and declare themselves supreme. Bombs are aimed at fields and nearby mountains endangering civilian llives and detroying their properties and livelihood.

Duterte’s “local peace” is a thin camouflage to hide the psywar operations to attack and destroy the unity of the masses. This also conceals intelligence operations to locate relatives of Red fighters and Party cadres.

Local associations active in defending the rights and peasants’ clamor for genuine land reform are targeted. Those identified as members are harassed and made to leave to destroy their organizations and deny them the strength to defend themselves. The military establishes fake organizations and force people to join to make it appear that the community favors land grabbing and projects of big plantations, mining companies, landlords and big capitalists.

The “local peace” signboard is used to conceal the malevolence and corruption of the fascist soldiers. Billions of pesos are squandered in corruption involving the “E-CLIP”, the “Kalahi-Cidds”, and the construction of roads, school buildings and other infrastructure under the “barangay development program.” Indigenous peoples are offered “housing” to uproot the people from their ancestral land which is their source of wealth and livelihood. These projects are described as the “answer to the grievance” of the peasant masses, but which in fact aggravate their problem of landlessness and land grabbing.

The Filipino people must thoroughly expose and denounce the deceptive “local peace.” The AFP and PNP’s dirty war against the people must be tirelessly exposed and condemned. Expose all forms of state terrorism and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. Measures and means must be devised so that the vile acts of state’s fascist forces in the remote areas will be exposed to the general public through the media and social media. Rouse and guide the masses to stand firm and act to defend their rights and carry forward their struggle for land and livelihood.

The New People’s Army must continue to strengthen and grow, and persevere in waging guerrilla warfare and agrarian revolution. Continue to strengthen the links and cooperation between the people’s army and the masses. Mount all forms of tactical offensives to defend the masses, dismantle the enemy’s network for intelligence and repression, attain revolutionary justice and punish the fascist criminals.

Draw the support of various sectors and the international community to reject the fascist “local peace,” amplify the demand to end the dirty war of the AFP and PNP, including the relentless aerial bombing campaign.

The broad masses of the people must unite and demand an end to the ideology of “anti-terrorism” which the US has imposed to serve as cover for their armed intervention. As long as this remains the policy of the reactionary state, the fascists will continue to gain power and leave no room for the people’s aspiration for a just and lasting peace.

[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/2022/02/07/resist-local-peace/