CPP/NDF-KAGUMA: Pahayag ng KAGUMA sa Ikatlong State of the Nation Address ni Ferdinand Marcos, Jr//Wakasan ang dalawang taon na pagpapakatuta ng inutil na rehimeng Marcos Jr sa imperyalistang US! Isulong at ipagwagi ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 21, 2024): Pahayag ng KAGUMA sa Ikatlong State of the Nation Address ni Ferdinand Marcos, Jr//Wakasan ang dalawang taon na pagpapakatuta ng inutil na rehimeng Marcos Jr sa imperyalistang US! Isulong at ipagwagi ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan! (KAGUMA's Statement on the Third State of the Nation Address by Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.// End the two years of the useless Marcos Jr. regime's taunting of the imperialist US! Promote and win the people's democratic revolution!)

 


Katipunan ng mga Gurong Makabayan (Kaguma)

National Democratic Front of the Philippines

July 19, 2024

Dalawang taon na sa pagiging inutil ang tutang Pangulo na walang ginawa kung ‘di ang maglamiyerda sa ibang bansa upang pilit na pabanguhin ang umaalingasaw na baho ng pamilyang Marcos at magmalimos sa mga lider ng iba’t ibang bansa habang nagugutom at naghihirap ang sambayanang Pilipino.

​Sa dalawang taong pagtitiis, naranasan ng mga Pilipino kung paano malunod ang sektor ng agrikultura na si Marcos Jr mismo ang nagsilbing unang kalihim bago niya inilagay ang fishing tycoon na si Francisco Tiu bilang gantimpala sa 30 milyong donasyon nito sa kanyang kampanya noong 2022 eleksyon. Sa dalawang taon ni Marcos Jr, napahiya siya na matupad ang kanyang pangako na ibaba ang bigas sa 20 pesos. Bagkus sumirit ang presyo ng kamatis, sibuyas, luya at iba pang pangunahing bilihin.

​Imbes na tanggalin ang kontra-magsasakang 2019 Rice Tarrification Law, nilagdaan pa ni Marcos Jr ang Executive Order 62 noong ika-2 ng Hunyo para tapyasin ang taripa ng bigas mula 35% tungo 15% simula taong 2024 hanggang 2028. Nagbubunyi ang mga lokal na kartel at mga importer ng bigas habang lugmok sa kahirapan ang ating mga magsasaka.

​Si Marcos Jr din ang pinakabarat na pangulo sa pagtataas ng sahod. Hindi lamang siya manhid sa mga manggagawa sa pribadong sektor, nananatiling bingi at manhid din siya sa kalagayan ng mga pampublikong guro na humihiling ng dagdag na sahod. Imbes na taas ng sahod, binigyan lang niya ang mga guro ng dagdag na allowance na hindi pa sapat na pampalubag-loob. Hinayaan din ni Marcos Jr ang kanyang ka-unity team na si Sara Duterte bilang Kalihim ng DepEd na gawing militarisado ang ahensya sa pamamagitan ng paglalagay ng mga retiradong heneral sa kagawaran. Ang sabwatang Marcos-Duterte ay nagbigay daan din para makuha ni Sara ang Php 250 milyong confidential funds na winaldas sa loob lamang ng labing isang araw! Kibit-balikat si Marcos Jr na pakialaman ni Sara ang mga aklat sa kasaysayan upang simulan ang paglilinis sa maruming pangalan ng mga Marcos.

​Walang napala ang mga guro at estudyante sa Bagong Pilipinas ni Marcos Jr maliban sa utusan ang mga paaralang pampubliko na awitin ang walang katuturang himno ng pagpapakatuta niya. Imbes na magtayo ng mga paaralan at magdagdag ng mga guro, nagtapyas pa ng Php 1.1 bilyong pondo para sa DepEd. Pinahirapan ni Marcos Jr ang mga mahihirap na kabataan sa ginawang 6% pagkapos ng budget sa mga state colleges and universities (SUCs) habang nilagak niya lahat nang kaban ng bayan sa kanyang baol na Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF).

​Ang pinakamalala sa lahat, hindi rin pinahinto ni Marcos Jr ang red-tagging at terror-tagging sa mga guro, estudyante at progresibong organisasyon sa mga paaralan dahil sa pag-iral ng Anti-Terror Law. Kibit-balikat lamang si Marcos Jr habang pumapasok ang mga militar sa mga paaralan at mga katabing komunidad. Sa loob ng dalawang taon, lalong naghirap ang mga guro at manggagawa sa edukasyon dahil sa implasyon, sa kontraktwal na paggawa, at pagkait sa pagtaas ng sahod.

​Bilang inutil na Pangulo, pinakita ni Marcos Jr sa mga guro kung gaano kasukdulan ang kanyang pagkatuta sa imperyalistang US na apat na beses na niyang binisita upang mamalimos habang nababahag ang buntot niya sa Tsina. Si Marcos Jr ang pinakamasahol na guro kung pagtuturo ng patriyotismo ang pag-uusapan. Ampaw ang kanyang gulugod sa pagsandal sa mga eherhisyong militar na sinalihan na rin hindi lamang ng imperyalistang US ngunit pati mga alyado nito. Takot, walang paninindigan at baog ang rehimeng US-Marcos Jr!

​Kaya ang KAGUMA ay makikiisa sa lahat ng mga pagkilos laban sa lumalalang kalagayan ng ating bayan. Ang mga kasapi ng KAGUMA ay dapat na aktibong lumahok sa pag-oorganisa at pagpapakilos ng mga estudyante at mga manggagawa sa edukasyon upang lumahok sa demokratikong rebolusyong bayan. Anihin natin at gamitin ang mga aral mula sa ating sama-samang pagkilos noon at ngayon upang lalong maging epektibo ang ating bigwas sa estado. Dapat na magpalawak at magpalapad tayo ng ating hanay at pampulitikang kabalagan sa kalunsuran upang gapiin ang imperyalismo ng US at ang lumalalang pasismo ng estado. Huwag na nating antayin pa na matapos ni Marcos Jr ang kanyang termino. Walang repormang magsasalba sa kabulukan ng neyoliberal na mga polisiya ng rehimeng US-Marcos Jr maliban sa armadong pakikibaka.

IBAGSAK ANG REHIMENG US-MARCOS JR!

ILANTAD ANG PAGKATUTA NI MARCOS JR SA IMPERYALISTANG US!

BIGUIN ANG PASISMO NG ESTADO!

SUMAMA, PAIGTINGIN AT IPAGWAGI ANG PAMBANSA DEMOKRATIKONG REBOLUSYONG BAYAN!

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/wakasan-ang-dalawang-taon-na-pagpapakatuta-ng-inutil-na-rehimeng-marcos-jr-sa-imperyalistang-us-isulong-at-ipagwagi-ang-demokratikong-rebolusyong-bayan/

CPP/Masbate: Ang rehimeng US-Marcos ang numero unong kaaway ng mga Masbatenyo

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 21, 2024): Ang rehimeng US-Marcos ang numero unong kaaway ng mga Masbatenyo (The US-Marcos regime is the number one enemy of the Masbatenyos)

Luz del Mar

Spokesperson

NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)

New People's Army

July 21, 2024

Kinasusuklaman at itinatakwil ng mamamayang Masbatenyo ang rehimeng US-Marcos. Sa loob lamang ng dalawang taon, sukdulang pagpapahirap, pasismo at terorismo at pagpapakatuta sa imperyalista ang ginawa ni Marcos sa taumbayan.

Numero uno siyang pahirap sa bayan. Ipinataw ni Marcos ang mga neoliberal at maka-dayuhang patakarang nagpapalala sa krisis sa ekonomya. Walang awat ang pagtaas ng presyo ng pagkain at bilihin. Sa Masbate umaabot sa ₱60.00 kada kilo ang presyo ng karaniwang kinokonsumong bigas. Luging-lugi pa rin ang mga magbubukid sa pagkapako sa mababang halaga ng kanilang mga produkto sa kabila ng mataas na gastos sa produksyon. Sa prubinsya, umaabot sa higit ₱3,000 ang kada sako ng abono.

Maraming Masbatenyo ang walang trabaho. Marami ang natutulak maghanapbuhay labas sa mga kabukiran dahil sa tumataas na gastos sa produksyon. Sa kabila nito, walang disenteng trabahong nakukuha ang mga Masbatenyo sa loob at labas man ng prubinsya. Kung mayroon man, marami ang sumasahod ng mababa pa sa rehiyunal na minimum wage sa pagtatrabaho bilang construction worker, bantay sa bakery o tindahan, kasambahay o utusan. Nagiging laganap ang odd jobbers.

Numero unong mangangamkam ng lupa ang rehimeng Marcos. Sa Masbate, nakabalangkas sa tabing ng kontrainsurhensya ang malawakang pang-aagaw ng lupa, laluna yaong mga lupang napagtagumpayang maipaglaban ng kilusang magbubukid sa prubinsya. Ilanlibong ektarya ng lupaing agrikultural, laluna sa mga bayan ng Cawayan, Cataingan at Milagros ang inagaw ng tuta ni Marcos na si Gov. Kho mula nang maupo si Marcos sa poder.

May basbas rin ni Marcos ang iba pang mapaminsalang neoliberal na proyekto sa prubinsya tulad ng ekspansyon ng dayuhang mina na Filminera. Plano ring magtayo ni Kho ng 300-ektaryang special economic zone sa Cataingan na sisira sa kabuhayan ng mga magbubukid sa naturang bayan.

Numero unong kurakot at sugapa si kapangyarihan si Marcos. Habang lumalala ang kabuhayan ng mamamayan, walang inaatupag si Marcos at iilang kapwa niya gahaman kundi magpayaman sa kurakot at kapangyarihan. Ilampung bilyong pondo ng taumbayan ang winawaldas ng pamilya ni Marcos sa pamamasyal at pagpapasarap sa ibang bansa.

Ang kanyang pakulong “Bagong Pilipinas” ay isang kampanya ng panlilinlang upang pagtakpan ang malawakang pandaraya sa darating na halalang 2025 at solohin lahat ng kurakot at dambong. Ang plano na Charter change ay isa ring pakana para maisemento ni Marcos ang sarili sa kapangyarihan. Dapat itakwil ang lumalalang hidwaan ni Marcos at ng mga Duterte para sa kapangyarihan at sa halip ay samantalahin ng taumbayan upang labanan ang parehong kriminal at demonyo.

Numero unong traydor at tuta si Marcos. Sa halip na idaan sa mapayapa at diplomatikong paraan ang paggiit ng karapatan ng Pilipinas sa West Philippine Sea at resolusyon ng usapin sa Tsina, isinuko ni Marcos ang soberanya ng Pilipinas sa dikta at patakarang gera ng US laban sa Tsina. Ito ay sa kabila ng malinaw na kawalang-intensyon ng Amerika na tulungan ang bansa sa usapin ng West Philippine Sea.

Pinahintulutan ni Marcos na gawin ang Pilipinas bilang base militar at imbakan ng kagamitang pandigma ng Amerika. Sa katunayan, dapat hadlangan at batikusin ng mga Bikolano ang napapabalitang mala-Balikatan na aktibidad na planong ilunsad ng mga tropa ng US, South Korea at Australia sa Bikol ngayong 2024.

Numero unong terorista si Marcos. Sa ilalim ng utos na wakasan ang armadong pakikibaka ngayong 2024, ilinulunsad ng rehimen ang teroristang gera ng panunupil sa mamamayan bilang haligi ng kanyang paghahari. Binusog niya ang militar at pulis ng ilang trilyong pondong pangkurakot at pinanatili ang National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, bilang haligi ng kanyang pasistang makinarya.

Sa Masbate, todo-todo ang ilinulunsad na gera kontra magsasaka ni Marcos kasabwat ang AFP-PNP-CAFGU, NTFELCAC at lokal niyang alipures tulad ni Gov. Antonio Kho. Sa kanyang termino, 32 na magsasaka ang pinaslang sa prubinsya. Kabataan, kababaihan, matanda, walang pinipiling biktima. Liban pa rito ang mga iligal na inaresto at daan-daan pang biktima ng panggigipit ng militar. Marami ang takot magreklamo dahil pinagbabantaang kakasuhan o isusunod sa mga pinatay. Kaliwa’t kanan ang ipinapatayong detatsment at hindi tinatantanan ng presensya at kontrol militar ang mga baryo.

Para sa mga Masbatenyo, ang ikatlong State of the Nation Address ni Marcos ay senyales ng papatinding pang-aapi at pagsasamantala, laluna sa harap ng desperasyon nitong mapagtibay ang kapangyarihan. Tulad ng kanyang ama, ang terorista, pahirap, kurakot at taksil sa bayang rehimeng Marcos ay patunay na wala nang maasahan sa kasalukuyang bulok na sistema.

Para ipagtanggol ang lupa, kabuhayan, karapatan at buhay, kailangang buuhin ng mga Masbatenyo ang kanilang pagkakaisa at isulong lahat ng porma ng paglaban, laluna ngayong panahon ng halalan.

Higit sa lahat, dapat at kailangang tahakin ng mga Masbatenyo ang landas ng demokratikong rebolusyon para labanan ang teror, paglubha ng kahirapan, kurapsyon at banta ng gerang hatid ni Marcos. Sa tagumpay ng rebolusyon nakasalalay ang tunay na kalayaan at kasaganaang dapat matamasa ng Pilipinas.#

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/ang-rehimeng-us-marcos-ang-numero-unong-kaaway-ng-mga-masbatenyo/

CPP/CIO: Filipino people's money used to rush US runway in Palawan

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 21, 2024): Filipino people's money used to rush US runway in Palawan

 

This article is available in Pilipino

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

July 21, 2024

The Marcos regime’s rushed construction of a runway and military facility at Balabac island for use of US military forces is a gross display of subservience to its imperialist master. The US plans to use this southernmost island of Palawan as a military base to preposition its weapons and troops, in line with its strategy to contain the growth of its imperialist rival China.

It is an outrage that Marcos spent ₱170 million of the Filipino people’s money to construct a military base for the US. This is a grievous affront on the Filipino people who are suffering from high prices, low wages and burdensome taxes.

The claims of the US-Marcos regime that the US military facility will serve the purpose of “defending the West Philippine Sea” are hollow and false. Marcos’ push to complete the construction contrasts with his own declaration to “deescalate” tensions with China. The presence of US military forces and weapons in the Philippines serves no other purposes but that of the war-obsessed US war machine.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/filipino-peoples-money-used-to-rush-us-runway-in-palawan/

CPP/CIO: Marcos does not want to hear people's grievances during SONA

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 21, 2024): Marcos does not want to hear people's grievances during SONA

 
This article is available in Pilipino

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

July 21, 2024

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) joins the Filipino people, and their democratic and patriotic forces, in condemning the Marcos regime for its brazen attempt to prevent the people from marching and demonstrating near the Batasan Pambansa, where he is set to deliver his state of the nation address tomorrow.

Marcos is displaying mortal fear of people’s protests by mobilizing at least 23,000 police personnel in the National Capital Region, including sniper-backed riot police. He wants to make sure that the collective grievances and demands of the people will not reach his ears or his sights (even banning protest outfits in congress). Like his dictator father, Marcos Jr only wants to hear hallelujahs to his Bagong Pilipinas, a fraud worth hundreds of millions of pesos being foisted on the people.

The broad masses of the Filipino people are suffering immensely under the Marcos regime. Prices are skyrocketing while wages are extremely low. There is widespread joblessness and loss of livelihood. People are burdened by onerous taxes. Human rights are wantonly violated in the vain attempt of Marcos to stifle the people’s dissent. Marcos is acting as an American stooge, allowing all-out US military intervention, to use the country as base for its war preparations and provocations.

The Filipino people have a long history of resistance against fascists and dictators. They draw lessons from the past, and inspiration from their heroes. They are as determined as ever to fight for their national democratic aspirations.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/marcos-does-not-want-to-hear-peoples-grievances-during-sona/

CPP/CIO: NPA recruitment continues under Marcos brutal regime

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Jul 21, 2024): NPA recruitment continues under Marcos brutal regime

 

Marco Valbuena

Chief Information Officer

Communist Party of the Philippines

July 21, 2024

Recruitment by the New People’s Army (NPA) continues steadily and is certain to rise in the coming months and years in the face of worsening oppression and political repression. People are determined to fight for their rights, defend their livelihood, and fight for a better future for their children, in the face of the increasingly brutal, corrupt, and oppressive Marcos puppet regime.

Declarations by Gen. Carlito Galvez that the country will be “insurgency-free” in three years is pure wishful thinking. This is a simple rehash of declarations made in the past thirty years. As before, such pronouncements will be proven hollow brags.

The Filipino people and the New People’s Army are ever determined to wage revolutionary armed struggle in the face of people’s acute sufferings under the Marcos regime.

Majority of the Filipino people are mired in poverty as prices continue to rise and wages remain low. Unemployment is widespread. Land and other sources of livelihood are being taken away from the masses by foreign companies in connivance with Marcos crony big business. Poverty is particularly acute in rural areas, where an average of 1.1 million jobs have been lost every month.

Marcos has resorted to martial law tactics to suppress the people’s resistance to his regime’s anti-people, anti-national and anti-democratic policies. He rules with an iron-fist across the country, especially in the countryside. His power-intoxicated and often drug-crazed soldiers carry out extrajudicial killings and other crimes. In the past two years, at least 175 people have been killed by Marcos’ armed minions, most of whom were peasants.

Last July 8, 2nd IB soldiers opened fire and killed siblings Robert and Ronel Monsanto, 18 and 22, while tending to their farm animals in Barangay Aguho, Esperanza, Masbate. On June 5, the 74th IB opened fire on 11 farmers, including seven minors in Sitio Canonghan, Barangay Osmeña, Palapag, Northern Samar. They were later rounded up and brought to a military camp, and falsely linked to the NPA. These are just some recent examples of the brutal forms of armed suppression perpetrated by Marcos against the people.

Marcos’ tyrannical rule teaches the people that only by taking up arms and joining the NPA can they effectively defend their lives and fight for their rights and aspirations.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/npa-recruitment-continues-under-marcos-brutal-regime/

NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Avail of gov't amnesty program

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2024): NTF-ELCAC to remaining Reds: Avail of gov't amnesty program (By Priam Nepomuceno)

MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) urged remaining New People's Army (NPA) rebels to avail of the amnesty program offered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. so that they live peacefully with their families.

"We appeal to you to renounce terrorism, lay down your arms, abandon the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA, and take advantage of the amnesty being offered by the President. Return to the fold of the law and live in peace with your families," NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in a statement Friday.

He said applicants only have until March 4, 2026, two years since Congress' concurrence to the President's amnesty proclamations.

He said this is the right time for NPA remnants to abandon the senseless decades-long armed struggle against the government.

The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) earlier said its existing Local Amnesty Boards (LABs) have received 578 amnesty applications as of July 12.

It said 497 of the applicants are former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA- NDF).

Two of the applicants are from the "Rebolusyonaryong Partidong Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade" (RPMP-RPA-ABB).

Meanwhile, 33 are from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and 46 are from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF were granted amnesty by the President under Proclamation No. 404.

Members of the RPMPRPA- ABB, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and MNLF were granted amnesty under Proclamation Nos. 403, 405, and 406, respectively. Under these Proclamations, issued on Nov. 23, 2023, members of these rebel groups have two years to apply for amnesty.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229324

Peace adviser: Insurgency-free Philippines achievable by 2028

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20, 2024): Peace adviser: Insurgency-free Philippines achievable by 2028

PEACEFUL MEANS. Former Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army rebels attend a surrender ceremony with Visayas Command officials in Cebu province on Dec. 30, 2023. An insurgency-free Philippines is possible by the end of 2028 because of convergence among concerned agencies and the non-combat strategies that entice communist fighters to lay down their arms, according to Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. during the Saturday News Forum (July 20, 2024) in Quezon City. (File photo courtesy of Viscom-PIO)

MANILA – The goal of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration to make the Philippines insurgency-free by the end of 2028 is not impossible.

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the government’s convergence efforts can turn the vision into reality.

“Nakita ko sa assessment ko, it is very achievable kasi nakikita natin maganda ang pinapatunguhan ng ekonomiya ng ating bansa (In my assessment, it is very achievable because we can see that the country’s economy is promising),” he said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.

“At the same time, nakita natin (we see that) the national agencies are now getting together to have a convergence to solve the basic issues and the drivers of conflict.”

He commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police for ensuring that significant progress is made to weaken insurgent forces across the country.

From more than 80 guerrilla fronts, the active ones are now mainly in Samar, Bicol Region and Negros Island, Galvez noted.

He cited the Davao Region where the New People’s Army used to hold sway.

The Regional Peace and Order Council-Davao declared the entire region cleared of insurgents as of Sept. 19, 2022.

It was the third region in the country declared as insurgency-free following the Ilocos Region and Zamboanga Peninsula.

“Wala po tayong naririnig, nakita natin na mga engagement. Mostly, ang pinag-uusapan natin diyan is iyong ano ang livelihood project na ma-ibibigay natin doon sa mga nasa ibaba (We don’t hear of or see engagements anymore. Mostly, what we talk about are what livelihood projects we can provide),” he said.

Galvez said the comprehensive approach of the military, along with non-combat strategies, encouraged many rebels to return to mainstream society.

The government’s amnesty program has also allowed former rebels to regain their political and civil rights, Galvez said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229412

Things looking up for BARMM; poverty rate on the decline

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20, 2024): Things looking up for BARMM; poverty rate on the decline

LOOKING UP. A public market in remote Barangay Binasing in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato, which is now part of the Special Geographic Area-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, after its turnover on Nov. 27, 2023. The Marcos administration hopes to reduce the poverty incidence in the region to a single digit by 2028, from the 34.8 percent during the first half of 2023. (Photo courtesy of MILG-BARMM)

MANILA – The poverty incidence in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) continues to decline under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

BARMM Cabinet Secretary Asnin Pendatu said at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City

that from 39.4 percent in 2021, the data dropped to 34 percent.

“So, patuloy ho iyong pagbaba (it continues to go down) during this administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos,” Pendatu said. “The autonomy that was granted to the BARMM was the right track to take kasi (because) it produces results.”

President Marcos is targeting to reduce poverty incidence in BARMM to a single digit by 2028.

Pendatu said BARMM is hopeful as well.

“Mayroon naman pong mga (There are) signs or at least we have forthcoming investments that we see that would help in further reducing the poverty incidence in the region,” he said.

Owing to the region’s “relatively better peace and security situation,” he said that PHP3.1 billion worth of investments translated to 1,927 job opportunities in 2023.

Pendatu said they are also exploring the possibility of developing natural gas and other natural resources in BARMM, particularly in the Liguasan Marsh.

President Marcos fully supports BARMM development, according to Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. during the same forum.

“For example, sa (in) food security, BARMM can answer the cattle industry. Second, in terms of agriculture, aquaculture at saka sa (and) fisheries,” he said.

Referring to Pendatun’s report, Galvez said more or less 30 percent of the country’s fisheries and other food products are from BARMM.

At the Global Peace Summit which Galvez attended in Oslo, Norway last month, he said the Bangsamoro Peace Agreement received positive feedbacks.

“Nakikita natin na isa ito sa mga nagiging ehemplo ng ibang bansa (It has become a model for other nations) in terms of the implementation at saka (and) in terms of the conception of the agreement,” Galvez said.

Galvez said the “BARMM peace process has a bright future” and the region will reach another major milestone when it holds the first BARMM parliamentary election on May 12, 2025.

The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro started the dream for autonomy under the late President Benigno Aquino III in 2012.

However, the 16th Congress, with President Marcos still a senator then, failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) when it adjourned in 2016.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte made good on his promise to bring peace to the region, pushing for the BBL and eventually a more inclusive Republic Act 11054, also known as Organic Law for the BARMM. It was signed into law in July 2018, replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The law was ratified by twin plebiscites in Feruary 2019, immediately followed by the creation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229413

Marcos admin committed to Bangsamoro peace process – Galvez

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20, 2024): Marcos admin committed to Bangsamoro peace process – Galvez (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PEACE TALKS. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun and Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and Undersecretary David Diciano (from left) guest at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City on July 20, 2024. Pendatun said the BARMM has lured about PHP3.5 billion in investments since the start of 2024, a testament to the improving peace and security in the region; while Galvez affirmed the national government will fulfill the commitments made under all signed peace agreements, particularly in the Bangsamoro Region. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)

MANILA – The Marcos administration is committed to fulfilling its part in the Bangsamoro peace process, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez reaffirmed Saturday.

Galvez made the statement at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City as he presented the administration’s achievements with regard to its peace agenda.

“As President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has emphasized, his administration will not waver in fulfilling the commitments made by the national government under all signed peace agreements, particularly the Bangsamoro,” he said.

“President Marcos has also given his assurance that the first BARMM [Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao] regional elections 2025 will be peaceful, orderly and credible. Kung makikita ninyo si Presidente, halos linggo-linggo umiikot po siya sa BARMM. Lahat po ng probinsiya po na-ikutan na niya (If you can see the President, he has been visiting the BARMM almost every week),” he added.

In the same forum, Bangsamoro Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun said “anticipation and participation” are high for the upcoming first parliamentary elections in BARMM next year.

As of this posting, Pendatun said 16 political parties have registered under the Bangsamoro Commission on Elections.

Pendatun added that voter’s education and information campaigns are also in full swing to raise public awareness on the upcoming polls.

“Iyon pong final pieces of the puzzle, so to speak, para po lahat ay makapag-participate doon po sa aming (The final pieces of the puzzle, so to speak, is complete so that everyone can participate in our) first parliamentary elections,” he said. “Dahil admittedly, our public ay hindi pa po ganoon kataas iyong level of understanding doon po sa changes from the regular elections before at sa ganito pong (Admittedly, there is a low level of understanding on the changes from the regular elections before to the) first parliamentary elections."

The Bangsamoro parliamentary elections on May 12, 2025 will elect the successors of the interim Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament members.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229408

PH, China reach ‘provisional arrangement’ on Ayungin missions

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 21, 2024): PH, China reach ‘provisional arrangement’ on Ayungin missions (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

RORE MISSION. The rotation and reprovisioning of troops conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and its Western Command for troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on March 5, 2024. However, civilian vessels Unaizah May 1 and 4 and their Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard escorts were harassed, blocked and blasted with water cannons by China Coast Guard vessels. (Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – The Philippines and China have agreed on a “provisional arrangement” in rotation and resupply (RORE) missions to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced Sunday.

In a statement, the DFA said both sides concurred that the agreement “will not prejudice each other’s positions in the South China Sea.”

“The Philippines and the People’s Republic of China have reached an understanding on the provisional arrangement for the resupply of daily necessities and rotation missions to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal,” it said.

Both have recognized the need to de-escalate the situation in the South China Sea and manage differences through dialogue and consultation.

The DFA has yet to provide the specifics of the agreement.

The agreement was made following a series of consultations with the Chinese side, following constructive discussions at the 9th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism meeting on the South China Sea on July 2.

It was the first formal measure that the two sides agreed on about the Ayungin Shoal.

Two months ago, an unidentified Chinese Embassy official said Beijing had forged a “new model” with Manila, which allegedly allows an unhampered resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre provided that the Philippine boat and escort coast guard involved are limited to one each.

Before the newly announced arrangement, the DFA said the Philippines had not entered into any agreement with China concerning the feature.

It said only President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. could approve or authorize deals related to the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea.

No US participation

In a separate interview on Sunday afternoon, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the country’s RORE missions “will remain to be a pure Philippine operation.”

“But we appreciate the US support in all aspect being our main ally and its assurance of ironclad commitment to the MDT (Mutual Defense Treaty). There is no need at this time for any direct involvement of US forces in RORE mission,” he said.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, on the other hand, noted that the Philippine government would continue to consult the United States as a treaty ally.

“As far as the RORE is concerned, we’re keeping it as a purely Philippine operation utilizing Philippine ships, personnel and leadership. That may change depending on the guidance from top management but that’s the direction or policy at present,” he said.

The officials made their statement after White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said the US “will do what is necessary” to ensure that the Philippines could continue its RORE missions.

“We will do what is necessary with the Philippines to see to it that that happens. But in terms of specific concepts of operations or the exact way in which the United States would be engaged, our preference is to have the maintenance of the status quo there, the capacity of the Philippines to do these resupplies,” Sullivan said.

“We will continue to support the Philippines and stand behind them as they take steps to be able to ensure that,” he added.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the military appreciates Sullivan’s remarks that show an “enduring partnership” between the two states.

She also welcomed the US official’s reaffirmation of the MDT, which she said ensures the Philippines' assets in Ayungin Shoal are protected.

“The AFP is committed to the welfare and readiness of our personnel in strategic locations like Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines will exhaust all means before seeking foreign intervention in fulfilling our mandate,” she said.

“The AFP values the support of the US and like-minded countries in fostering a peaceful and secure region based on international law. We remain committed to peaceful resolutions and will continue working with the US and other partners to uphold regional stability and our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea,” she added. (With reports from Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229434

PH Army test-fires Israeli-made Sabrah light tank guns

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2024): PH Army test-fires Israeli-made Sabrah light tank guns (By Priam Nepomuceno)

TEST FIRE. Three Sabrah light tanks join a test fire of 105mm main guns during a drill at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Tarlac on July 8, 2024. The Philippine Army's 1st Tank Battalion said Wednesday night (July 17, 2024) that the test fire is a crucial part of maintaining the battalion's combat readiness and operational efficiency. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army 1st Tank Battalion)

MANILA – The Philippine Army’s (PA) 1st Tank Battalion has test-fired the 105mm main guns of its newly acquired light tanks from Israel.

In a Facebook post Wednesday night, the 1st Tank Battalion said the test fire was held during the familiarization and training exercise for Army personnel on the use of the Elbit Systems' Land Sabrah light tanks at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base target range in Tarlac province on July 8-11.

"This event was a crucial part of maintaining the battalion's combat readiness and operational efficiency, providing both seasoned soldiers and new trainees with invaluable hands-on experience," the 1st Tank Battalion said.

It added that the rigorous training sessions included a series of realistic combat scenarios designed to test and enhance the accuracy, reliability, and firepower of the Sabrah tanks.

The 1st Tank Battalion said having these light tanks in the PA's inventory would greatly boost its territorial defense capabilities.

Armor Division commander Maj. Gen. Pedro C. Balisi Jr. was also present during the exercise to assess the performance of the Sabrah light tanks.

The Armor Division is expected to receive 20 units of the Sabrah from 2023 to 2024 aside from 10 units of wheeled armored vehicles.

Six to 10 Sabrah units are believed to be in service as of this time.

The PA's light tank acquisition project is under Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

The contract is worth PHP9.4 billion and was acquired via government-to-government mode.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229219

OPAPRU: Basilan arms surrender pact 'milestone' in peace process

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2024): OPAPRU: Basilan arms surrender pact 'milestone' in peace process (By Priam Nepomuceno)

PATH TO PEACE. Basilan Governor Jim Hataman (5th from left) witnesses the ceremonial turnover of firearms during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the surrender of light weapons and firearms in Isabela City on July 16, 2024. The OPAPRU on Thursday (July 18) said the MOU is a critical step in the implementation of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, as it will regulate firearms transport and usage and enforce uniform standards for military and police personnel across the province. (Photo courtesy of OPAPRU)

MANILA – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Thursday welcomed the recently-signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the surrender of light weapons and firearms in Basilan province as a milestone in the country's peace process.

In a news release on Thursday, the peace body said it has joined the Basilan provincial government led by Governor Jim Hataman, municipal mayors, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and other peace-inclined groups during the signing of the pact in Basilan's capital Isabela City on July 16.

The OPAPRU said the MOU is a critical step in the implementation of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, as it will regulate firearms transport and usage, as well as enforce uniform standards for military and police personnel across the province.

Key provisions of the MOU include restrictions on the carrying of firearms outside designated areas for Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members, as well as the stringent observance of uniform protocols, and the clear enforcement of mechanisms on weapons use and safety.

In a speech, Hataman stressed the importance of collective responsibility in securing a peaceful and prosperous future.

"Mahalin natin ito. Kung ano ang programa ng mga mayors natin, ng mga military, ng local government, pakiusap ko sa mga MILF at MNLF na sumama po kayo. Hindi ito para sa amin, pero para sa atin at sa susunod na henerasyon (Let us love this. I call on MILF and MNLF members, join the programs of our mayors, the military and the local government. This is not just for us. This is for everyone and the next generation)," Hataman said.

The event's highlight was the presentation and turnover of 172 firearms which showed the Basilan provincial government's major progress in its campaign to reduce illicit arms.

The SALW program is a key component of the security aspect of the Normalization Program for MILF combatants, their families and communities.

The activity also included a Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) Basilan Secretariat’s meeting where stakeholders discussed and strategized on peacebuilding interventions that will be carried out under the LNI.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229221

AFP, Aussie counterpart reaffirm commitment to regional peace

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19, 2024): AFP, Aussie counterpart reaffirm commitment to regional peace (By Priam Nepomuceno)

STRENGTHENED TIES. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. during his video call with Admiral David Johnston, the Australian Defence Force's new chief, on Thursday (July 18, 2024). The two committed to promoting peace and stability in the region. (Photo courtesy of the AFP)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and its counterpart, the Australian Defence Force (ADF), vowed to further strengthen their ties, committing to promoting peace and stability in the region.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. made the commitment Thursday during a video call with Admiral David Johnston, the ADF's new chief.

"During the call, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and the continuation of strong defense and security relations between the Philippines and Australia," Trinidad said.

The two officials emphasized the importance of a long-standing partnership in addressing shared security challenges and enhancing regional peace and stability, he added.

"Both leaders concluded the call with a pledge to continue strengthening their defense ties and working closely on various initiatives aimed at further enhancing existing military cooperation activities," Trinidad said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229306

Samar town gets P100-M bridge under peace project

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2024): Samar town gets P100-M bridge under peace project (By Sarwell Meniano)

PEACE EFFORTS. Officials inspect the site of a bridge project in Matuguinao, Samar in this Nov. 16, 2023 photo. The interior town in Samar province will receive PHP100 million for the construction of a bridge that will link formerly rebel-infested communities to the town center. (Photo courtesy of Matuguinao local government)

TACLOBAN CITY – The interior town of Matuguinao, Samar will receive PHP100 million in funding for the construction of a bridge that will link formerly rebel-infested communities to the town center.

In an interview Wednesday, Mayor Aran Boller said the 30-meter concrete bridge in Maduroto will start within the year, replacing a makeshift bridge set up by a contractor and repaired by the local government.

“The tall bridge will benefit thousands of residents from 12 villages. We are committed to ensuring that the construction of this bridge will not only connect our barangays but also bring sustainable development to our communities," Boller told the Philippine News Agency.

The bridge is funded under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana) program, which is under the oversight of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity.

The structure will form part of the road that will connect the towns of Matuguinao in Samar and Las Navas in Northern Samar. The upland areas of these towns are hiding places of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

Pamana projects have been implemented in different parts of Samar Island primarily to contribute to addressing issues of injustice and improve community access to socio-economic interventions.

Matuguinao, a 5th-class town with a population of over 7,000 people, is one of the recipient communities of Pamana projects since some areas have been affected by armed conflict.

Of the town’s 20 villages, four are still affected by the NPA’s armed struggle, the mayor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229136

Free housing up for 30 ex-NPA rebels in Samar town

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 18, 2024): Free housing up for 30 ex-NPA rebels in Samar town (By Roel Amazona)

SETTLEMENT. The site of the future housing project for former rebels in Matuguinao, Samar. At least 30 former members of the New People’s Army in Matuguinao town will soon own houses through the “Saad nga Balay” (promised housing) program. (Photo courtesy of Matuguinao local government)

TACLOBAN CITY – At least 30 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Matuguinao, Samar will soon own houses through the “Saad nga Balay” (promised housing) program.

Mayor Aran Boller said on Thursday the site preparation is now ongoing after the groundbreaking on June 19.

The project, located within the town center, is primarily funded by the Samar provincial government.

Each house costs PHP250,000 and has a 49-square-meter lot area, with a semi-concrete design.

The town has about 50 former rebel surrenderers who are qualified to avail themselves of the housing project.

“The priority to receive these houses are former regular fighters of the NPA,” Boller told the Philippine News Agency.

The mayor said providing decent houses is a symbol of commitment to inclusive growth and reconciliation.

It is also a way to help former rebels build a better future, hope, and stability after they decide to turn their lives around and live within a normal community, Boller said.

The "Saad nga Balay” housing project was conceptualized by Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina, commander of the Philippine Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade and first implemented in San Jose de Buan town.

The project, a collaboration between the local government and national agencies, aims to provide affordable houses and support to former rebels in their reintegration into society.

The construction of the housing units is led by the military and assisted by their partners from various national government agencies, including former rebels.

Aside from housing assistance, former rebels also undergo skills training, including education, and community development programs while waiting for the umits' completion and turnover.

The housing project implemented through a “bayanihan” concept has three sites: San Jose de Buan, Calbiga, and Matuguinao in Samar; and Dolores and Can-avid towns in Eastern Samar.

The Matuguinao project is targeted for completion by next year.

Matuguinao, a 5th-class town with a population of over 7,000 people, is one of the areas on Samar Island seriously affected by the NPA's armed conflict.

Of the town’s 20 villages, four are still affected by the NPA’s armed struggle, the mayor said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1229268