Troops stop BIFF plot to bomb NGCP tower in Cotabato

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 13, 2023): Troops stop BIFF plot to bomb NGCP tower in Cotabato (By JOSEPH JUBELAG)

COTABATO CITY – Security forces thwarted an alleged Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters plot to bomb a transmission tower of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines in Pikit, Cotabato on Independence Day.

Police Lt. Col. Rowel Gavilanes, 90th Infantry Battalion commander, said personnel of the Army Explosive Ordnance Unit detonated at least three improvised explosive devices (IED) at the perimeter of NGCP Tower No. 39 in remote Barangay Batulawan.

THE military foiled a plot to bomb an NGCP tower in North Cotabato (Army FB)

He said the recovery of the IED came after residents reported to authorities a bomb explosion in the area at past 8 a.m.

Major Gen. Alex Rillera, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the prompt recovery of IEDs thwarted the possible bomb attacks on NGCP transmission towers by suspected local terrorist group out to destabilize the peace and security of Central Mindanao.

Security forces also recovered on Monday an unexploded 81mm mortar ammunition in Barangay Kadigasan, Midsayap, Cotabato.

Authorities have tagged the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, an Islamic State-inspired local terror group, as behind the terror plot.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/6/13/troops-stop-biff-plot-to-bomb-ngcp-tower-in-cotabato

Northern Samar governor condemns NPA landmines attack on 2 civilians

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 13, 2023): Northern Samar governor condemns NPA landmines attack on 2 civilians (By MARIE TONETTE M. MARTICIO)

TACLOBAN CITY – Northern Samar Gov. Edwin Ongchuan called the recent landmine explosion that killed two civilians in Las Navas town a display of violence by the New People's Army.



GOV. Edwin Ongchuan (NEDA FB)

The victims who were residents of Barangay Quirino, Las Navas were construction workers on an ongoing farm-to-market road.

They were reportedly on their way home late Saturday, June 3, 2023, when the landmines were detonated on the roadside, which caused their untimely death.

"It is a clear reflection of the desperate tactic of the NPAs to sow fear among our people, especially in remote areas where they find civilians, children, and women, easy targets," he lamented.

He stressed that the use of landmines, which is a violation of the Ottawa Convention or the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, should stop.

"While we grieve for the loss of two men from our community, we cannot, and will not yield to their twisted revolutionary cause," the governor said.

He said they will pursue our peace and development initiatives primarily in geographically isolated and displaced areas of the province where help is needed most to increase people’s access to government services and reduce poverty.

Ongchuan added that they look forward to having the perpetrators brought to the bar of justice.

"May this unfortunate event push us to unite more, and help the government in its efforts to build a peaceful community, that which is free from atrocity and violence. We call on our communities to stay firm, keep our resolve to fight terrorism and unjust killings."

Northern Samar is known as the last bastion of local insurgency in the country.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/6/13/northern-samar-governor-condemns-npa-landmines-attack-on-2-civilians

8ID, NTF-ELCAC units vow to beat 2 remaining NPA fronts in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 13, 2023): 8ID, NTF-ELCAC units vow to beat 2 remaining NPA fronts in Samar (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Screengrab from NTF-ELCAC Facebook live video)

MANILA – The Catbalogan, Samar-based 8th Infantry Division (8ID) and local front-liners of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) will be able to eliminate the two remaining New People's Army (NPA) fronts in its area of operation within this year.

“I am confident that we will finally end this armed conflict by the third quarter of this year, or safe to say by the end of the year,” 8th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo said during the NTF-ELCAC's weekly forum dubbed “Tagged Reloaded: Debunking The Lies By Telling the Truth” on Monday.

Ligayo said this is possible as the 8th Infantry Division and local units of the NTF-ELCAC are closely working to eliminate the two remaining NPA fronts.

The 8ID operates in Samar and other parts of the Eastern Visayas.

By the end of third quarter, he said one of the active fronts will be downgraded to a “weakened” status.

“Pa-konti na ng pa-konti (They are dwindling),” Ligayo said, defining the remaining two NPA fronts, whom he added has no village to turn to, and choose to go deep into the mountain to escape annihilation from intensified focused military operations.

The 8ID commander also condemned the newest atrocities of communist rebels for killing two construction workers last week in Las Navas town.

On June 3, Rowel Lebico and Hersan Cabe of Barangay Quirino died from an anti-personnel mine attack of the NPA.

He said the civilian victims were workers of a farm-to-market road project being implemented by the government.

Reacting to the NPA violence, Alma Gabin, former education deputy secretary of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), said the remaining NPA units in the region are trying to blocked the government’s efforts of giving farm-to-market roads in far-flung barangays formerly used as the "communist terrorist group" (CTG) lair.

“We call them (the) road to hell,” she recalled, referring to the NPA’s term for farm-to-market road.

Gabin said this is because the NPAs are using lack of roads as a big issue against the government to encourage village residents to join and support them.

He said if the NPA members see roads being constructed in these areas, the insurgents will immediately coerce residents, burn equipment or even kill individuals to stop its constructions.

Gabin also noted that building roads is a “significant leverage” for the government as this will force insurgents to go to the mountains.

Asked about the case of Lebico and Cabe, Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Eastern Visayas director Desiree Pontejos vowed to take actions against the perpetrators of the killings.

He said their quick reaction team have already investigated the incident and are now in the process of identifying the suspects regardless of being NPA members.

Meanwhile, Ligayo urged all local government units (LGUs) to actively join in the fight to end the reign of terror of the local communist armed conflict.

“We're only running against two remaining active fronts of the NPA in the region and the national government through the NTF-ELCAC is making great strides. To reciprocate this, it is vital to gain the support of local officials and their constituents,” he said.

Ligayo said if residents in far-flung villages would see for themselves how the government is trying to help them, they will turn their backs from supporting or sympathizing with the NPA.

“Mahirap mag-operate kung ang kasama mo ay sumusuporta sa kabila (It is hard to fight when your partner supports the enemy),” he lamented.

Ligayo hinted that some local government officials are sympathetic to the communist movement.

“We just celebrated the 125 years of our independence. Let’s end this together, without traitors,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203400

BRP Andres Bonifacio returns after 'Komodo' stint in Indonesia

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 13, 2023): BRP Andres Bonifacio returns after 'Komodo' stint in Indonesia (By Priam Nepomuceno)

BRP Andres Bonifacio (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy's offshore patrol vessel, BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17), arrived in time to celebrate the country's 125th Independence Day on Monday shortly after its successful participation in the "Komodo" naval exercises in Indonesia.

"After a successful and meaningful participation in Multilateral Naval Exercise 'Komodo' 2023 in Makassar, Sulawesi, Indonesia, BRP Andres Bonifacio arrived in the Philippine waters just in time for the celebration of 125th Philippine Independence on 12 June 2023," the ship said in its Facebook page late Monday.

For security reasons, the BRP Andres Bonifacio did not post its exact location in Philippine waters.

"Komodo" is a military exercise by the Indonesian Navy annually held between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans.

The first iteration of the naval exercise took place in 2014 in Indonesia's Batam City.

This year's exercises took place from June 4 to 8. The BRP Andres Bonifacio left Naval Operating Base Subic last May 29 to participate in these naval drills.

"With a complement of 187, the sailors and marines aboard PS-17 sail back full of vigor and enthusiasm for getting home on one of the most important days in Philippine history," it added.

The post said that BRP Andres Bonifacio became the epitome of a freedom defender patrolling the entire archipelago, protecting critical areas, and promoting the country’s maritime interests.

"As the nation celebrates Independence, the Katipuneros of PS-17 reaffirms its commitment to the land and the Filipino people to uphold the mandate of protecting the country’s Freedom, Future, and History," it further stressed.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203402

Transfer of Army brigade to help end insurgency in Samar Island

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 13, 2023): Transfer of Army brigade to help end insurgency in Samar Island (By Roel Amazona)

NEW HOME. Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir points to a facility during his visit to one of the army camps in Eastern Samar in this undated photo. The Philippine Army’s 802nd IBde has been transferred from Leyte province to Eastern Samar to help suppress the insurgency in Samar Island. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade (802nd IBde) has been transferred from Leyte province to Eastern Samar to help suppress the insurgency in Samar Island.

The brigade, which was based in Camp Downes in Ormoc City for more than two decades, was officially transferred to Borongan City in Eastern Samar to help meet the target of ending insurgency in Samar provinces within the year.

“We are here to help the campaign of ending the local communist armed conflict in Samar Island,” said Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, the 802nd IBde commander, in a phone interview on Tuesday.

With the addition of the 802nd IBde in Eastern Samar, all three brigades under the 8th Infantry Division are now operating in Samar Island.

The 801st IBde is based in Hinabangan, Samar with operations covering some parts of Samar, Eastern Samar and the Pacific towns of Northern Samar province.

Based in Catarman, Northern Samar, the 803rd IBde covers some areas in the northern part of Samar province and the rest of Northern Samar province.

Areas under the newly transferred brigade are the nine towns in Samar province and 15 towns and one city in Eastern Samar province.

Under the brigade are three battalions -- the 46th Infantry Battalion in Calbiga town, 63rd IB in Basey town, and 78th IB in Borongan City.

Government forces in the region are targeting to end the threat of the New People’s Army before the end of 2023.

Of the four communist guerrilla fronts operating in Samar Island, two are already dismantled by the military with two still operating in Northern Samar province and some parts of Eastern Samar and Samar provinces.

Meanwhile, Vestuir assured the public that the government troop’s presence will still be felt in the provinces of Biliran, Leyte and Southern Leyte since the two battalions with camps in Leyte province -- the 93rd IB in Kananga town, and 14th IB in Mahaplag town will remain in the island.

He added that the Joint Task Group Tandaya headed by Army's 8th Infantry Division assistant division commander Brig. Gen. Perfecto Peňaredondo will supervise the military operations in Leyte and Biliran provinces.

“We will do our best. Just like what we did in Leyte, we maintained a peaceful environment and negate the remnants of the CPP-NPA-NDF to do harm to our people,” Vestuir added.

The 802nd IBde was activated on Nov. 10, 1981. It took more than a year to complete its organization, training and equipping before it arrived in Catbalogan, Samar on March 3, 1983.

In the past 40 years, the brigade has been assigned in Sta. Rita and Hinabangan in Samar; Borongan and in Eastern Samar; Catarman, Northern Samar, and Lanao Del Sur. The brigade was based in Ormoc City in Leyte from 2002 until May 2023.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203415

Bomb try to topple NGCP tower in N. Cotabato foiled

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 13, 2023): Bomb try to topple NGCP tower in N. Cotabato foiled (By Edwin Fernandez)

RECOVERED BOMBS. Army and police bomb disposal experts secures three improvised bombs attached to an NGCP pylon in Barangay Batulawan, Pikit, North Cotabato on Monday (June 12, 2023). The local police said the bombs bore the signature style of the lawless Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters operating in the area. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

PIKIT, North Cotabato – Army and police bomb experts foiled an attempt by lawless elements to topple a transmission tower of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) in this town, military and police officials said Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Rowel Gavilanes, Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion commander, said the Army and police bomb disposal team safely disarmed at 10:30 a.m. Monday three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) attached to NGCP Tower 39 in Sitio Punol, Barangay Batulawan, Pikit.

Gavilanes said at about 8:30 a.m. a mild explosion had occurred in Sitio Punol. Civilians who heard the blast alerted authorities about it.

“We sent troops to check on the blast and they found three more bombs attached to the NGCP steel tower,” Gavilanes said.

The bombs were rigged from two mortar explosives and a rocket-propelled grenade head duct-taped together to a mobile phone as a trigger mechanism.

Security in the locality has been raised following the bombing attempt.

Lt. Col. John Miridel Calinga, municipal police station chief, the EIDs bore the signature style of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters operating in the area.

“It was not meant to harm civilians but only the NGCP tower,” Calinga said, adding that the site is far from residential areas.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, has placed all Army units in Central Mindanao on alert to ensure the safety of communities.

Rillera, also the commander of Joint Task Force Central, said the plot could have caused massive power service interruption had it not been averted in parts of North Cotabato, Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte provinces.

The discovery of IEDs here came a day after residents of Barangay Kadigasan, Midsayap town, North Cotabato, also found a homemade bomb fashioned from an 81-mm mortar explosive. Bomb experts safely deactivated the ordnance.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203417

2 NPA fighters killed, residents displaced in Negros clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 13, 2023): 2 NPA fighters killed, residents displaced in Negros clash (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

ENCOUNTERS. A site map shows the site of the series of encounters between New People’s Army fighters and troops of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Macagahay, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Tuesday (June 13, 2023). The firefights led to the death of two unidentified communist rebels. (Image courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – Two unidentified New People’s Army (NPA) fighters were killed in a series of encounters with troops of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) in the remote village of Macagahay in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Tuesday, a report of the Philippine Army said.

The encounters came almost a month after similar clashes took place in the neighboring Barangay Quintin Remo that claimed the lives of five communist rebels.

“No casualty on the government side while two fatalities left behind by their comrades were discovered,” the 62IB, led by commander Lt. Col. William Pesase Jr., said in a statement.

At 9:08 a.m., the first encounter took place in Sitio Cupad, where the troops engaged six NPA rebels for about 20 minutes, and was followed by another clash at 9:42 a.m., which transpired for about 15 minutes.

A third firefight happened at 10:20 a.m. in Sitio Mantauyan.

During the clearing operation, the troops recovered one M16 rifle, one 12-gauge shotgun, one .38 caliber revolver, one rifle grenade, four short magazine assemblies for M16, two rounds of ammunition for a shotgun, six rounds of ammunition for a caliber .38 revolver, and 79 rounds of 5.56mm bullet for M16.

They also found two bandoliers, a binocular, two backpacks, two sling bags and a power bank.

Meanwhile, the report said the skirmishes displaced at least 32 families, who sought shelter at the evacuation center in Sitio Mantauyan and were provided food assistance by the Moises Padilla Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

“We again call on the wounded and fleeing rebels to voluntarily surrender. The government forces are giving you a chance to return to the fold of the law. The troops of 62IB and Philippine National Police will not stop hunting you to ensure peace and development in central Negros,” the 62IB further said.

In April, an encounter in Sitio Lower Tiyos, Barangay Quintin Remo also led to the death of Jose “Jojo” Albores, one of the leaders of the “kangaroo court” under the Central Negros Front 1 of the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203477

DND vows to prioritize welfare of Filipino veterans

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12, 2023): DND vows to prioritize welfare of Filipino veterans (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (right) (Photo courtesy of DND)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said it continues to look after the welfare of Filipino veterans.

"One of the essential tasks or jobs of the Secretary of National Defense is to ensure the welfare of our veterans. Yan po ay patuloy na pinagbibilin ng ating Pangulo sa at sisikapin po natin na masigurado natin na (That was one of the instructions of our President [Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.] and we will try to ensure that) they get the best of care, particularly those who cannot care for themselves," Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said in an interview with reporters at the Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion, Manila North Cemetery in celebration of the country's 125th Independence Day.

Teodoro, meanwhile, said the Philippines is for the Filipinos and that their interest must be of paramount importance.

He also urged all Filipinos to study or research the challenges being faced by the country and have more discussions and dialogues so that a better understanding of these issues is reached.

"Para sa ganun, makipag-ugnayan tayo bilang magkababayan, bilang magkakapitbahay, para sa ganoon, lumakas ang ating bansa. Ganun din ang mga kababayan natin na wala dito sa Pilipinas ngayon, na napakalaki ang tulong sa atin. Kami po ay nagpapasalamat din dahil sila ay mga bayani din. Hindi natin sila dapat kalimutan (Just like that, we can communicate like fellow Filipinos and neighbors, through this, our nation will be strengthened. The same should be done with Filipinos abroad, they are a big help to us. We are also thanking them as they are heroes too. We should not forget them)," he added.

Teodoro also said the task of Filipinos does not end with the declaration of the country’s independence from foreign domination.

He likened the country’s independence to a tree or a person that needs to be nurtured.

Honor sacrifices of Filipino patriots

Meanwhile, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Monday paid tribute to the valiant men and women who paved the country's path towards sovereignty.

"What made these individuals remarkable was their strength of will which enabled them to stand up against powerful foreign adversaries; their unequivocal love for our nation; and most of all their willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow Filipinos," OPAPRU acting Secretary Isidro Purisima said in a statement.

With the country facing pressing social, economic, diplomatic, peace and security concerns, the OPAPRU chief reminded Filipinos to remember the lessons left behind by Filipino patriots who are the country's "champions of independence and apply them as we address the challenges of nation-building."

"All across the globe, it is disheartening to witness nations and governments that are trying to subvert the independence of other democratic, peace-loving countries, and even their own citizens. The Philippines was in this situation before," Purisima stressed.

He also added that Filipinos know how it is to be at the mercy of sword-wielding invaders whose only desire is to impose their will on the colony and rob people of their dignity.

Purisima also emphasized the Filipinos' willingness to fight with "every ounce of our courage and strength to preserve our freedom."

"Independence, however, does not only mean being free from the bondage of colonizers; it means being free from the shackles of violence, fear, mistrust and prejudice that has held our country back from achieving sustainable development and long-lasting peace," the OPAPRU chief emphasized.

Purisima also said the true measure of a nation’s independence is having the ability to fully harness its God-given resources, and create an environment wherein all its citizens can enjoy the dividends of peace and development without foreign intervention.

"To our fellow Filipinos who are in the frontlines and risk their lives everyday to protect our nation’s sovereignty, thank you for your selflessness, dedication and commitment. You are heroes of democracy in the truest sense," he added.

Serve people well, cops told

The Philippine National Police also joined the nation's observance of the country's 125th Independence Day anniversary.

“For our part in the Philippine National Police, the celebration of the 125th year of Philippine Independence is an opportune time to reaffirm our professional commitment to uphold law and order, and help our government achieve lasting peace and sustained progress,” PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said in a statement sent to reporters on Monday.

“In recognition of the fruitful gains that we have established as a nation all those years under a regime of freedom, justice and peace, the PNP continues to be at the forefront of government efforts to make democracy work by ensuring that every Filipino can enjoy the blessings of our hard-won independence, free of foreign control, and threats to peace and stability of our nation,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission urged Filipinos to remember the sacrifices of the country's forefathers, heroes and ancestors.

“Their unwavering spirits, selflessness and bravery have paved the way for the independence we hold today. The theme of the year’s celebration carries the powerful message that resonates keeping with us,” Cruz said in his message during the Quezon City Police District's traditional flag raising rites. (with Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)


https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203354

DND: Ex-AFP chief Rodolfo Biazon icon of patriotism, integrity

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12, 2023): DND: Ex-AFP chief Rodolfo Biazon icon of patriotism, integrity (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Former AFP chief and senator Rodolfo Biazon (File photo)

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) extended its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff and lawmaker Rodolfo Biazon, who passed away at the age of 88 on Monday morning.

In a Facebook post, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon said his father succumbed to pneumonia at 8:30 a.m.

"Sen. Biazon's illustrious career spanned his active service in the military as an officer in the Philippine Marine Corps, and later entering public service as a member of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Throughout his decades-long service to the Filipino nation, Sen. Biazon embodied patriotism, integrity, and commitment to the protection of the country's freedom and its democratic institutions," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

Biazon was diagnosed with lung cancer in July 2022. This year, he caught pneumonia twice, the second more serious than the first which had further weakened his lungs.

"He courageously fought his last battle like a Marine would, but it is the Lord’s will which prevails," the younger Biazon posted.

Biazon, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1961, was born on April 14, 1935, in Batac, Ilocos Norte.

Before being appointed as the 21st AFP chief from Jan. 24 to April 12, 1991 under the administration of the late President Corazon C. Aquino, Biazon served as AFP vice chief of staff from 1990 to 1991, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) commandant from 1987 to 1989 and PMA superintendent from 1986 to 1987.

He was the first PMC member to be appointed as AFP chief.

Biazon also served as senator from June 30, 1992 to June 30, 1995 and from June 30, 1998 to June 30, 2010, and as Muntinlupa representative from June 30, 2010 to June 30, 2016.

"Sen. Biazon leaves a legacy worthy of emulation by current and future generations of Filipinos. May God grant him eternal rest," Andolong said.

The AFP also paid tribute to its late chief.

"Gen. Biazon played a pivotal role in defending the country’s democracy and upholding the integrity of our armed forces. His commitment to public service extended into his political career, serving as a senator who championed key legislations that advocated for the welfare of our countrymen," AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said in a statement.

He added that Biazon's leadership and integrity will continue to inspire future generations of servicemen and public servants.

"The AFP shall provide appropriate military honors to the late Gen. Biazon in recognition of his legacy and sacrifices as a soldier and head of the military," Aguilar said.


‘Model citizen, brave soul’

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez also mourned the passing of Biazon, describing him as “brave soul” who was "summoned back to God's army on a day that we Filipinos associate with bravery."

"That is a fitting tribute to Pong Biazon by the Almighty, telling us to emulate the great Filipino that he was," Romualdez said in a statement.

He said Biazon should be acknowledged for his inspiring and selfless service to the nation, and for being a model citizen.

Romualdez also hailed Biazon for his long body of work as a legislator.

Biazon's filed measures that became laws include Republic Act (RA) 9208, Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act; RA 9161, reforming the renting industry; RA 7835, Comprehensive and Integrated Shelter Finance Act; RA 7898, An Act providing for the Modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; RA 7742, amending the mandatory membership to the Pag-IBIG Fund; RA 7901, creation of Caraga (Region XIII); and RA 7889, establishing the University of the Philippines Mindanao.

Also pursued by Biazon were Joint Resolution No. 7, increasing the subsistence allowance of soldiers and policemen; RA 8763, amending the Home Guarantee Corporation Act; RA 9040, tax exemption of allowances and benefits for members of the AFP; RA 9049, granting monthly gratuity and privileges to awarded of the Medal of Valor; and RA 10354, or the Reproductive Health Act.

"Saludo kami sa iyo (We salute you), General. You're one of a kind," Romualdez said.



Fellow lawmakers' tribute

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said Biazon brought the same military discipline and commitment to the Senate and to every aspect of his life as a public servant.

“I am grateful for the time that we spent in the Senate together and I am glad we had one last chance to reconnect with him last November, when he attended the Senate reunion. He was as bright and astute as ever, and a fountain of guidance and wisdom for those of us currently in the Senate,” Zubiri said in a statement.

Senator Rissa Hontiveros said Biazon “always answered the call of duty even when he was no longer in office” and was a steady source of strength for women and women’s advocates in the fight for the passage of the Reproductive Health Law.

“Regarded as macho due to his military background, he challenged stereotypes to stand not just for, but with women,” Hontiveros said in another statement.

Senator Grace Poe said the country lost an exemplar soldier and solon.

“His valuable work in fortifying the military institution and in lawmaking will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in these trying times,” Poe stated.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada said their former colleague during the 13th and 14th Congresses witnessed firsthand Biazon's "unparalleled passion for public service and unwavering advocacy for low-cost housing and increased benefits for our soldiers. His wisdom, experience, and exemplary work ethic were always evident, making him an invaluable asset to our institution and a true inspiration to us all.” (With reports from Jose Cielito Reganit, Leonal Abasola/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203369

CPP/NDF-Mindoro: Palayain si Mary Joyce Lizada at Arnulfo Aumentado! Panagutin ang 203rd Brigade sa pandarahas nito sa mga sibilyan at tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 11, 2023): Palayain si Mary Joyce Lizada at Arnulfo Aumentado! Panagutin ang 203rd Brigade sa pandarahas nito sa mga sibilyan at tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao! (Free Mary Joyce Lizada and Arnulfo Aumentado! Hold the 203rd Brigade accountable for its violence against civilians and human rights defenders!)

 


Ma. Patricia Andal

Spokesperson

NDF-Mindoro

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

June 11, 2023

Kinukondena ng NDFP – Mindoro ang patuloy na panggigipit kina Mary Joyce Lizada at Arnulfo “Ompong” Aumentado, mga volunteers ng grupong Bigkis at Lakas ng Katutubo sa Timog Katagalugan (BALATIK), at tagapagtaguyod ng karapatan ng mga katutubo sa isla ng Mindoro. Iligal silang dinakip at inaresto noong Abril 26, higit isang buwan na ang nakakaraan, sa Sityo Buol, Brgy. Teresita, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro. Ang iligal na pag-aresto ay naganap habang sila ay nagsasagawa ng panlipunang pananaliksik sa pinsalang dulot ng oil spill at ang epekto nito sa kalagayan ng mga katutubong Mangyan lalo na sa pamayanan nilang malapit sa aplaya at nagsisilbing sekundaryong hanapbuhay at pinagkukunan ng pagkain ang aplaya at karagatan.

Upang pagmukhaing lehitimo ang pag-aresto, tinaniman sila ng baril at ibinalandra bilang mga matataas na opisyal ng NPA. Ilang araw lamang matapos ang iligal na pag-aresto ay bininbin na sila sa Camp Capinpin Army Station Hospital upang diumano ipakita ang “pagmamalasakit” ng gobyerno sa kapakanan ng dalawang nakabinbin. Subalit ang “pagmamalasakit”na ito ay sa katunayan tabing lamang sa iligal na detensyon sa kampo military. Hanggang ngayon, patuloy pa din ang iligal na pagdetine sa kanila kahit wala pa ring malinaw na kasong isinasampa sa kanila gayong lampas isang buwan na silang iligal na nakadetine sa 2nd ID Headquarters.

Garapalan ang iligal na pagbibinbin na ito sa dalawang tagapagtaguyod ng karapatan ng mga katutubong Mangyan. Itinanggi pa sa mga kapamilya kung nasaan ang mga ito, na kaya lamang nasunson sa Camp Capinpin ng pamilya dahil sa tulong na ibinigay ng mga tagabayan ng Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro. Nakailang araw pa bago nasunson ang dalawa kaya sa buong panahong ito ay ipinagkait din sa kanila ang karapatang makaugnay sa abogado. Nang iharap si Mary Joyce sa mga kapamilya at abogado, nakitaan siya ng indikasyon ng pagpapahirap at tortyur samantalang si Ompong Aumentado ay hanggang sa sinusulat ito hindi pa ipinakausap sa kanyang abogado at pamilya.

Sa pagtrato sa kanila na waring mga hostage sa loob ng kampo, ipinagkait sa kanila ang “right to due process”. Isa na namang patunay ito ng pag-iral ng pangil ng pasismo at bangis ng ilehitimo, pahirap at papet na rehimeng US-Marcos II at kanyang mga galamay na AFP-PNP. Binabaluktot mismo ng mga ito ang Saligang Batas ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno alang-alang sa paglulunsad ng kanilang hibang na gyera kontra sa mamamayan sa ngalan ng anti-terorismo

Sina Lizada at Aumentado ay kabilang sa humahabang listahan ng mga tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang pantao sa Mindoro at sa bansa na walang-awang biniktima at inakusahan ng pasistang estado dahil sa kanilang adbokasiya at adhikain. Kaisa ang NDFP-Mindoro sa panawagan ng mamamayan at kilusang magsasaka’t katutubo na kagyat silang palayain. Dapat patuloy na itulak ang pasistang 2nd ID na panagutan ang kanilang krimen laban kay Lizada at Aumentado. Itambol ng mamamayan ang panawagan para sa pagpapalaya kina Lizada at Aumentado, kasama ang 169 pang bilanggong pulitikal sa iba’t ibang kulungan sa bansa!

Sa patuloy na pagsidhi ng kampanyang supresyon sa mamamayang Mindoreño at sambayanang Pilipino, nananatiling wasto ang pagtahak sa landas ng pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon na may sosyalistang perspektiba upang baguhin ang kasalukuyang bulok at bangkaroteng sistemang umiiral. Ang tagumpay ng rebolusyon lang ang maglilikha ng isang lipunang makatarungan at kumikilala sa batayang karapatan ng mamamayan.

Palayain ang Mansalay 2!

Isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan!###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/palayain-si-mary-joyce-lizada-at-arnulfo-aumentado-panagutin-ang-203rd-brigade-sa-pandarahas-nito-sa-mga-sibilyan-at-tagapagtaguyod-ng-karapatang-pantao/

CPP/NPA-Southern Tagalog ROC: Huwag waldasin ang pera ng bayan sa pensyon ng mga papet at pasistang sundalo’t pulis

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jun 11, 2023): Huwag waldasin ang pera ng bayan sa pensyon ng mga papet at pasistang sundalo’t pulis (Don't waste public money on the pension of puppets and fascist soldiers and police)

 


Armando Cienfuego

Spokesperson

Southern Tagalog Regional Operational Command (Melito Glor Command)

New People's Army

June 11, 2023

Panahon nang tigilan ang pagsusustento ng reaksyunaryong estado sa pensyon ng mga nagretirong tauhan ng AFP-PNP gamit ang pera ng bayan. Hindi makatarungan na ang pondong tinipon mula sa pawis at dugo ng mamamayan ay gagamitin na mistulang pabuya para sa mga pasistang nag-“serbisyo” sa imperyalismo at lokal na naghaharing uri. Lalo itong hindi katanggap-tanggap ngayong binabata ng sambayanan ang napakatinding krisis pang-ekonomiko at pinagtitiisan ang mumong pondo na inilalaan ng gubyerno sa serbisyong panlipunan at ayuda sa kabuhayan.

Daig pa ng AFP-PNP ang linta na walang konsensyang humihigop sa pondo ng bayan. Nakakalula ang P273 bilyon na apropriyasyon ng Kongreso para sa pensyon ng 137,649 na sundalo’t pulis ngayong taon. Malaking kalamangan ito kaysa sa badyet ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (P197 bilyon) na ginagamit sa relip at ayuda. Ang masahol pa, buu-buong ibinibigay ang pensyon sa mga unipormado dahil hindi ito sinisingil mula sa kanilang sahod noong sila’y nasa serbisyo pa. “Espesyal” ang mga sundalo’t pulis samantalang ang lahat ng kawani ng gubyerno ay awtomatikong kinakaltasan para sa kanilang pension fund sa pamamagitan ng GSIS.

Labas pa sa pensyon, nakakarimarim na napupunta sa sweldo ng mga kasalukuyang nasa serbisyo ng AFP-PNP ang daan-daang bilyong pisong pinaghirapan ng bayan. Halos ubusin ng pinalaking sahod ng mga militar at pulis ang badyet ng Department of National Defense—nasa ₱29,668 ang tinatanggap ng bagong pasok na sundalo samantalang nasa ₱43,829 ang sahod ng pinakamababang ranggong opisyal. Sa ganitong kwentahan hindi nakapagtataka na laging isa ang DND sa tumatanggap ng pinakamalaking tipak ng pondo. Patuloy pa itong lalaki hangga’t tuluy-tuloy ang pagrerekrut ng bagong sundalo’t pulis para gamitin sa hibang na kontra-rebolusyonaryong gera. Itutulak din ng pagtaas ng sahod ang pagpapalaki sa pensyon dahil sa patakarang itinataas ang ranggo ng mga nagreretiro at doon ibinabatay ang tatanggapin nilang pensyon.

Sa sobrang laki ng kinakailangang pera para imantine ang pensyon at sahod ng AFP-PNP ay kinukunsidera pa ng gubyernong umutang para lang matugunan ito. Ayon sa Department of Finance, kakailanganing manghiram ng ₱3.43 trilyon hanggang 2030 para bayaran ang pensyon. Sobra nang ipapasan pa sa mamamayan ang bigat ng pagbabayad sa utang para lang magtuluy-tuloy ang pensyon ng AFP-PNP.

Animong mga anak ng diyos ang mga sundalo’t pulis na kumokopo ng pinakamalaking pondo at pagkatapos magretiro sa maagang edad na 56 ay mayroon pang tatanggaping malaking pensyon. Tinatamasa nila ang ganitong pabor dahil gusto silang silawin ng mamamatay-taong estado upang patuloy na magpakasangkapan sa brutal na gera laban sa mamamayan. Sinasamantala ng estado ang napakahirap na kalagayan para akitin ang mamamayan na magparekrut sa AFP-PNP. Gamit ang malaking sahod, pensyon at iba pang benepisyo, itinatali ang mga unipormadong tauhan sa kanilang maruming trabaho na pang-aatake sa mga sibilyan, panunupil sa mga sibil-pulitikal na karapatan at pambubulabog at pambobomba sa mga komunidad. Sa tunay na makatarungang lipunan, ang ganitong mga gawain ay hindi sinusuklian ng mataas na sweldo, bagkus, ito’y mga krimen na nilalapatan ng karampatang parusa.

Habang binubusog ang mga pasista, ginugutom ang ibang sektor ng lipunan at ibang pampublikong empleyado. Hindi man lang sila makatikim ng makatarungang taas-sahod sa gitna ng napakataas na implasyon! Nagkukuripot ang reaksyunaryong gubyerno sa sahod ng mga guro, nars at iba pang kawani nito, habang nagbibingi-bingihan sa panawagang taas-sahod ng mga nasa pribadong sektor. Kung hindi matiyak ang maayos na sahod, lalong hindi aasahan na mapagkakalooban ang mga karaniwang manggagawa at kawani ng pensyon.

Sa ganito, sinusuportahan ng MGC-NPA ST ang namumuong panawagang ipatigil na ang espesyal na kaayusan sa pensyon ng mga unipormadong tauhan ng gubyerno. Malaking bagay ang pagsusulong ng reporma sa pensyon ng AFP-PNP tulad ng panukalang kunin ang 5-9% ng sahod ng mga unipormado para sa kanilang pensyon at pagtigil sa awtomatikong promosyon kapag nagretiro. Dapat na ring itigil ang pagpaparami ng sundalo’t pulis. Dagdag lang na pabigat sa bayan ang ipapasahod sa mga pasista na perwisyo naman sa mga komunidad. Ang matitipid na pondo mula sa mga hakbanging piskal na ito ay dapat ilaan sa kagyat na panawagan at pangangailangan ng bayan tulad ng suporta sa kabuhayan, serbisyong panlipunan at ayuda para sa mga walang-wala at sinalanta ng kalamidad.

Kung tutuusin, panimula at bahagya pa itong mga hakbangin kung susuriin ang pangkabuuang sistematikong pagwawaldas ng pera ng estado sa AFP-PNP at sa gastusing militar. Nakaugat na sa loob ng pasistang institusyon ang pangungulimbat ng pondo ng gubyerno ng matataas na heneral at tumatagos hanggang sa pinakamababang antas ng kumand ng AFP-PNP ang kurapsyon. Kwentado na sa mga transaksyon tulad ng pagbili ng mga armas at konstruksyon ng mga pasilidad militar ang kikbak para sa mga opisyal. Pati allowance at benepisyo ng mga rank and file na sundalo’t pulis ay pinag-iinteresan ng mga ito at ninanakaw. Bukod sa mga ito, nangongolekta pa ang mga heneral ng kanilang kabahagi mula sa mga anti-sosyal na organisasyon at mga krimen. Notoryus ang mga sundalo’t pulis sa pangongotong, pagnanakaw ng ari-arian ng masa, pagpapaupa para pumatay at iba pang iligal na negosyo. Magtataka pa ba tayo kung bakit hindi mapuksa ang krimen at kurapsyon sa bayan? Mismong ang mga walang kabusugang pasista ang pasimuno ng pang-aapi, pandarahas at pagnanakaw sa mamamayan.

Hindi maipagkakaila ninuman ang sobrang pagkabulok ng AFP-PNP. Wala na itong katubusan at kailangang wasakin kasama ng malapyudal at malakolonyal na sistema na nagpasibol dito.###

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/huwag-waldasin-ang-pera-ng-bayan-sa-pensyon-ng-mga-papet-at-pasistang-sundalot-pulis/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 7 sundalo ng 91st IB, KIA sa armadong aksyon ng BHB-Aurora

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Jun 11, 2023): 7 sundalo ng 91st IB, KIA sa armadong aksyon ng BHB-Aurora (7 soldiers of 91st IB, KIA in armed action of NPA-Aurora)

 

June 11, 2023

Pitong tropa ng 91st IB ang killed-in-action o napatay sa armadong pagsalakay na isinagawa ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)-Aurora sa kabundukan ng Barangay Diteki, San Luis, Aurora noong Hunyo 9 ng umaga. Kasunod ito ng naunang pag-atake ng BHB laban sa parehong yunit noong Hunyo 3 sa Barangay Punglo, Maria Aurora kung saan dalawang sundalo ang napatay.

Kabilang sa mga sundalong napatay si Corporal Noel F. Caya. Itinanggi ng 91st IB ang iba pang nasawi sa mga labanan.

Ayon sa yunit ng BHB, ang mga armadong aksyon na ito ay isang anyo ng pagkamit ng rebolusyonaryong hustisya ng masang magsasaka sa Aurora laban sa mga abusadong sundalo.

Labis-labis ang reklamo ng mga residente sa lugar dahil isang linggo na silang pineperwisyo ng mga sundalo, kabilang ang pagbabawal sa kanila na maghanap-buhay. Pinagbawalan din silang magpunta sa kanilang mga kaingin at hinaharang ang kanilang mga pinamili.

Bantog ang 91st IB sa mga kaso ng panghuhuli at panggigipit sa maliliit na mag-uuling at maghahalaman sa gubat. Mayroong mga kaso na iligal na sinasamsam ng mga sundalo ang pinaghirapang mga produkto ng mga magsasaka at ibinebenta para pagkakitaan ang mga ito.

Pinapaboran din nila ang mga may kakayahang mag-abot ng “lagay” habang pinagbabantaan at ikinukulong ang mga walang kakayahan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/7-sundalo-ng-91st-ib-kia-sa-mga-armadong-aksyon-ng-bhb-aurora/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: Magsasaka, pinatay ng 9th ID sa Albay

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Jun 11, 2023): Magsasaka, pinatay ng 9th ID sa Albay (Farmer, killed by 9th ID in Albay)

 

June 11, 2023

Nanawagan ng hustisya ang mga kaanak ng magsasakang si Zaldy Cañaveral, 40, na binaril at pinatay ng mga sundalo ng 9th ID noong Mayo 24. Si Cañaveral ay nasa kanyang maisan sa Barangay Busac, Ligao City, Albay nang barilin siya ng mga sundalo.

Para pagtakpan ang karumal-dumal na krimen, pinalalabas ng mga sundalo na mandirigma ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) si Cañaveral. Ayon sa ulat, binihisan pa ng uniporme ng sundalo at nilagyan ng isang M16 ang kanyang bangkay para palabasing napaslang siya sa isang engkwentro.

Pinasubalian ni Ka Florante Orobia, tagapagsalita ng BHB-Albay, ang sinasabi ng militar na nagkaroon ng engkwentro sa lugar. Aniya, walang yunit ng BHB sa lugar nang maganap ang kanilang ‘palabas’.

Nagtamo ng isang tama ng bala sa ulo at dalawa sa katawan ang biktima. Labis ang hinagpis ng mga kaanak ni Cañaveral sa kanyang pagkamatay. “Lalabas kaya iyong katotohanan dito o kakalimutan nang lahat…rest in peace na lang sa ninong ko,” post sa social media ng inaanak ng biktima.





Kilala siya sa kanyang mga kababaryo bilang “Pai Andy.” Pinasubalian nila ang pahayag ng militar na myembro siya ng BHB.







Salaysay pa ng isang kaanak sa kanyang post, “sibilyan po ang pinatay nila…hindi po NPA.” Umapela rin siya sa publiko na sana ay mabigyan ng hustisya ang pagpatay kay Cañaveral.





Matapos ang brutal na insidente, ipokritong nanawagan ang militar sa mga “rebelde” na “magbalik-loob…para sa pagkakataon na magkaroon ng mapayapa at bagong buhay kasama ang kanilang mga pamilya.”

Umapela naman ang BHB-Albay sa mga kagawad ng midya na “maging mapagtuklas sa katotohanan ng inyong mga balita at hindi dapat umaayon lamang sa iskrip ng inyong mga station manager o ng sinuman na mas mataas sa inyo.”

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/magsasaka-pinatay-ng-9th-id-sa-albay/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: 6 na armadong aksyon, inilunsad ng BHB sa Bicol

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Jun 11, 2023): 6 na armadong aksyon, inilunsad ng BHB sa Bicol (6 armed actions, launched by the NPA in Bicol)

 

June 11, 2023

Magkakasunod na armadong aksyong ang inilunsad ng mga yunit ng Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB) sa Bicol sa nagdaang tatlong araw. Ayon sa mga yunit ng BHB, ang mga atritibong aksyon na ito ay bahagi ng pagbibigay-hustisya sa mamamayang biktima ng militarismo at pasistang paninibasib ng militar sa mga prubinsya ng rehiyon.

Magkasabay na operasyong harasment ang inilunsad kahapon nang umaga ng BHB-Albay laban sa dalawang detatsment ng militar. Inilunsad ng isang yunit ang operasyong haras sa detatsment ng CAFGU sa Barangay Pantao, Libon. Sinundan ito ng isa pang harasment sa detatsment ng mga paramilitar sa Barangay Cuyaoyao, Pio Duran.

Kahapon din, isinagawa ng mga Pulang mandirigma sa Camarines Sur ang tatlong armadong aksyon laban sa mga kampo ng 81st IB. Ayon sa kanila, matagal nang inuokopa ng mga tropang militar ang lugar.

Bandang 12:20 ng madaling araw, inilunsad ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang magkasunod na operasyong harasment sa mga detatsment sa Barangay Inoyunan sa bayan ng Bula sa ganap na alas-12:20 ng madaling araw. Sinundan ito ng pag-atake ng isa pang yunit sa detatsment ng militar sa Barangay Cambalidio, Libmanan bandang alas-12:30 ng madaling araw.

Operasyong isnayp naman ang inilunsad ng mga Pulang mandirigma sa Barangay Calabnigan sa parehong bayan laban sa yunit-militar na nagsasagawa ng Retooled Community Service Program.

Sa Camarines Norte, tatlong sundalo ang kumpirmadong kaswalti sa atake ng BHB laban sa 9th IB sa Purok 5 ng Barangay Canapawan, Labo noong Hunyo 8.

Pinaputukan ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang isang tim ng mga sundalo papalapit sa kanilang binabasehan nang ala-1 ng madaling araw. Tumagal lamang nang 15 minuto ang sagupaan pero nagpaputok at nagpasabog ang mga sundalo hanggang alas-3 ng umaga. Ligtas na nakaatras ang mga Pulang mandirigma.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/6-na-armadong-aksyon-inilunsad-ng-bhb-sa-bicol/

CPP/Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis: NDFP, di nagulat sa kontra-kapayapaang tindig ng bagong kalihim sa depensa

Ang Bayan Daily News & Analysis online propaganda posted to the PRWC Newsroom, the blog site of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau (Jun 10, 2023): NDFP, di nagulat sa kontra-kapayapaang tindig ng bagong kalihim sa depensa (NDFP, not surprised by the anti-peace stance of the new defense secretary)

 

June 10, 2023

Hindi nagulat ang National Democratic Front of the Philuppines (NDFP) sa pahayag ni Gilbert Teodoro, bagong talagang kalihim sa depensa ng rehimeng US-Marcos, laban sa muling pagbubukas ng usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagitan ng NDFP at gubyerno ng Pilipinas.

“Ang personal kong tindig ay “hindi.” Matagal ko nang pusisyon yan, noong araw pa,” tugon ni Teodoro nang tanungin siya sa posilibidad ng pagbubukas ng usapang pangkapayapaan. Tinawag pa niyang “subersyon” ng prosesong demokratiko ang pakikipagnegosasyon sa NDFP.

“Hindi na nakagugulat na si Sec. Gibo Teodoro ay matagal nang tutol sa usapang pangkapayapaan sa NDFP,” ayon kay Julie de Lima, interim na tagapanguno ng NDFP negotiating panel. “Nanggaling nga naman siya sa parehong grupo ng mga manunulsol ng gera na nagsilbi sa ilalim ni Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at sumuporta sa kriminal-sa-digma na si Jovito Palparan.”

Dati nang nagsilbing kalihim ng depensa si Teodoro sa ilalim ng rehimeng Arroyo mula 2007 hanggang 2009. Sa panahong ito, nagsilbi siyang pangunahing tagapagpatupad ng Oplan Bantay Laya, isa sa pinakamadugong kampanyang kontra-rebolusyonaryo ng reaksyunaryong estado.

Ayon sa grupong Karapatan, sa loob ng dalawang taong nagsilbing kalihim si Teodoro ni Arroyo, naisadokumento ng grupo ang 24 kaso ng sapilitang pagkawala, 20 kaso ng pagdukot, 99 kaso ng pagtortyur, 456 iligal na pang-aareso at 164 iligal na pang-aaresto at detensyon. Gayundin, nakapagtala ito ng 117,133 idibidwal na mga biktima ng walang pakundangang pamamaril, 148,044 biktima ng pwersahang pagbabakwit, at 9,154 biktima ng hamletting. Sa ilalim ni Teodoro, ginamit para sa mga layuning militar ang mga eskwelahan, klinika, simbahan at iba pang sibilyang imprastruktura, na labag sa internasyunal na makataong batas.

“Inuulit namin ang pusisyon ng NDFP na nananatiling bukas sa negosasyong pangkapayapaan. Pero kasabay nito, wala kaming nakikitang mga palatandaan na handa ang kasalukuyang adminstrasyon na likhain ang kinakailangang mga kundisyon para maipagpatuloy ang usapang pangkapayapaan,” paglilinaw ni de Lima. Balakid rin sa paglikha ng mga kundisyong ito ang patuloy na presensya at panghihimasok ng militar ng US, aniya.

“Habang laging handa ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan para makipag-usapang pangkapayapaan sa GRP, isusulong namin ang digmang bayan para ipagtanggol ang mamamayang Pilipino laban sa mas brutal na pasistang pang-aatake at interbensyong militar ng US na nakikinita naming iigting sa ilalim ng bagong talagang hepe ng DND,” ayon kay de Lima.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/ndfp-di-nagulat-sa-kontra-kapayapaang-tindig-ng-bagong-kalihim-sa-depensa/