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CPP/NPA-Misamis Oriental: No NPA involved in Opol arson — NPA-Misamis Oriental

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Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 31, 2020): No NPA involved in Opol arson — NPA-Misamis Oriental

NPA-MISAMIS ORIENTAL
NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY
MAY 31, 2020

The New People’s Army-Misamis Oriental would like to clearly state that it is not responsible for the reported torching of four houses and a small chapel in Barangay Limonda, Opol last May 28.

Contrary to reports in local newspapers and website, the NPA has nothing to do with the said torching.

Military reports claim that shouts of “Mabuhay ang NPA” were heard after the torching were. If this are true, then it raises the suspicion that the arson was the handywork of AFP soldiers in the area.

We would like to assure the people of Opol and Misamis Oriental that the NPA does not, and will not, destroy civilian infrastructure, especially places of worship. To the local news sites and newspapers, we would appreciate if this clarification be appended to the original story.

https://cpp.ph/statement/no-npa-involved-in-opol-arson-npa-misamis-oriental/

CPP/IB: CPP welcomes Pope Francis’ call to divert weapons funding

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Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 31, 2020): CPP welcomes Pope Francis’ call to divert weapons funding

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
INFORMATION BUREAU
MAY 31, 2020



The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today welcomed the statement of Pope Francis calling on governments to divert funds spent on weapons to research to prevent another pandemic. The leader of the Roman Catholic issued the plea as he led an outdoor prayer service in the Vatican yesterday.

“The Party considers Pope Francis’ call to divert funds spent on the purchase and development of weapons as an urgent appeal in the face of rising militarism and fascism while people are suffering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Marco L. Valbuena, Chief Information Officer of the CPP.

Pope Francis urged government leaders to “take a far-sighted attitude, helping the most needy now and putting in place long-term economic and social solutions.” He prayed that the leaders’ consciences would “be touched so that enormous sums spent to possess more armaments and to perfect them be instead destined to the promotion of sufficient research to prevent such catastrophes in the future.”

“The Filipino people must amplify Pope Francis’ appeal especially in the face of the Duterte regime’s obsession with purchasing attack helicopters, bombs, cannons and other war matériel to wage war and suppress the democratic rights of the Filipino people,” added Valbuena.

Duterte recently purchased billions worth of weapons amid the intense economic crisis brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Last May 12, he issued a notice to proceed with the procurement of the artillery systems worth P2.4 billion from Israeli company Elbit Systems.

The procurement program was made under the AFP modernization program which aims to boost Duterte’s arsenal in a vain attempt to fulfill his ambition to decimate the armed revolutionary movement before the end of his term.

Relatedly, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of the US Department of State approved last April 30 the Duterte regime’s request to buy six AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters, missiles, and other war matériel and services worth P75 billion.

Valbuena said that the use of oversized cannons and helicopter gunships has resulted in the indiscriminate destruction of communities and the environment, endangerment of people’s lives and livelihood, and widespread terror and psychological trauma especially on children.

The Party calls on the Filipino people to demand the cancellation of these arms deals as this gravely undermines the majority of the Filipino people hit hard by the health crisis and the regime’s failed response to the pandemic. In line with the call of Pope Francis, the people must demand the realignment of war funds to research and emergency public health and economic measures to alleviate the sufferings of the people.

https://cpp.ph/statement/cpp-welcomes-pope-francis-call-to-divert-weapons-funding/

CPP/CIO: Ka Maria and Ka Joaquin are fine

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Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 31, 2020): Ka Maria and Ka Joaquin are fine

MARCO VALBUENA
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
MAY 31, 2020



This is to assure the public and all revolutionary forces that Ka Maria Malaya, spokesperson of the NDFP in Northeast Mindanao, and Ka Joaquin Jacinto, NDFP-Mindanao spokesperson, are fine. This is contrary to military reports and social media propaganda claiming that they were killed in a firefight in Surigao del Sur.

This piece of information was relayed to us just today. We expect more detailed reports soon.

https://cpp.ph/statement/ka-maria-and-ka-joaquin-are-fine/

CPP: Overworked and exploited under Duterte’s lockdown, Filipino women must fight back

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Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 31, 2020): Overworked and exploited under Duterte’s lockdown, Filipino women must fight back

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES
MAY 31, 2020

Close to three months of Duterte’s martial law lockdown and sheer incompetence in handling the Covid-19 pandemic has been devastating to the Filipino people. It has been doubly so for women and girls. Women, especially working women, have borne the brunt of the lockdown.

Women are at the forefront of the battle against Covid-19.

Up to 80% of Filipino nurses are women, many of them infected and in quarantine due to lack of proper protective gear. Scores have died due to the infection. They suffer through 12-hour rotations amid personnel shortages. Many forego going home for fear of infecting their children and families as they are not regularly tested. Over the past months, they were subjected to military and police checkpoints and transport restrictions. On top of all of this, they receive 22% less in salaries compared to their male counterparts.

Majority of working women have been left with no income and have been forced out of their jobs due to the lockdown. Teaching, sales, clerical work, food and accomodation, all predominantly female occupations, have suffered as schools, malls, offices, hotels and restaurants were shutdown for more than two months.
Some will reopen but with fewer workers, and others, like schools, will likely remain closed until Duterte deem it “safe” to open. Sectors which Duterte rushed to open, such as construction and mining, are overwhelmingly male.

More than half of informal workers are women. They work in enterprises that are most affected by the lockdown such as sari-sari stores, parlors, food stalls and small eateries. Last year, there were more women than men who applied for small enterprise licenses, most of which are probably bankrupt by now.

In poor communities, it has been the womenfolk who were forced to wait in line for hours on end to avail of Duterte’s stingy amelioration. In 2015, 4 million women, as opposed to 400,000 men, were considered “poorest of the poor” and were enrolled in the DSWD’s 4Ps program. They bear the burden of stretching meager aid and finding other sources of food for their families.

In rural areas, women suffered as agricultural production consistently and progressively lag behind family needs. More women are landless than men. Over the years, six in ten women have worked as unpaid family workers in agricultural businesses and farms. With no income, no savings, and no prospect of earning a living, the lockdown exponentially worsened their condition.

Travel restrictions and unemployment have contributed to the uncertainties of overseas women workers. Many of them work as domestic helpers, sales ladies and in other services, and have been dismissed in droves by their employers. They come home only to be subjected to prolonged detention in quarantine facilities. Among them are pregnant women who have been criminally neglected as Duterte’s government failed to provide fast and accurate testing and processing of their results.

Initial studies suggest that pregnant women have the same risk of getting Covid-19 as adults who are not pregnant. But pregnant women are immunocompromised and are generally considered vulnerable to similar respiratory illnesses. Under the lockdown, prenatal care have been overlooked as hospitals and community clinics were diverted towards emergency response.

As BHERTs (Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams) become preoccupied with community-wide quarantines, basic medical care provided to pregnant women dwindled to almost nothing. Breastfeeding mothers and their newborns are largely being neglected amid the overstretching of the weak public health system. With limited funds and resources, most new mothers have been forced to forego immunizations and well-baby consultations. The military lockdown has further worsened the sorry state of basic infant vaccinations against measles, diphteria and polio.

Under Duterte’s lockdown, a woman’s burden of cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, doing the laundry and market runs have doubled as gender inequalities in housework are believed to increase, not decrease, when men are unemployed. Between two working parents, it has been the mothers who gave up more professional duties to care for the children and elderly family members. When Duterte and his cabal of incompetent officials shift education to “homeschooling,” it will mostly be the women who will shoulder this added responsibility, regardless of their occupation.

Inside locked homes, women are left with no protection against domestic abuse and sexual violence. The United Nations already warned that strict lockdowns lasting six months could lead to 31 million additional cases of domestic abuse. Restrictions on mobility, coupled with the ban on public transportation, hamper battered women’s ability to seek help or escape their abusers.

Under Duterte’s misogynist rule, violence against women have been on the rise even before the lockdown. Police have recorded high rates for rape, up 31% from 2018 to 2019, and physical violence, up 15% in the same period. The DSWD meanwhile registered 55% increase in the number of sexually exploited women in the same period. Under the lockdown, reports have been trickling in about policemen soliciting sexual favors in exchange for travel passes and minors engaging in prostitution.

The list is endless on how the lockdown burdened women. They are bound to suffer the ramifications of state neglect and disruption, lost livelihoods and crumbling incomes in years to come.

The Party calls on the Filipino women to hold the Duterte regime accountable not only for its failure to manage the pandemic but also for the disproportionate impact of its lockdown on women’s livelihoods, health and welfare. More than ever, they have the right to call for his ouster.

https://cpp.ph/statement/overworked-and-exploited-under-dutertes-lockdown-filipino-women-must-fight-back/

AFP chief Santos visits oil fields off Palawan

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): AFP chief Santos visits oil fields off Palawan (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Matinloc platform in Palawan. (Photo courtesy of Joint Task Force Malampaya)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., visited the Nido and Matinloc platforms off Palawan last May 28, which will be used by the military to augment the country’s maritime domain awareness capability.

These oil fields in the province's northwestern part ceased production in November last year after over four decades of operations.

In a statement on Monday, AFP public affairs office chief Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata said the two fields produced a total of 31 million barrels of oil before shutting down operations.

"It's currently being manned by AFP personnel and tasked to monitor the maritime environment in its periphery. They can communicate with other passing vessels in the area and report the same to higher headquarters," he added.

Santos, meanwhile, said these facilities could serve as a shelter for fisherfolk, as well as researchers from the national government agencies.

“This is a very good development for the Armed Forces as it will increase our maritime domain awareness and our operational reach,” he added.

Santos also visited the headquarters of the Joint Task Force Malampaya and met with its commander, Navy Capt. Donn Anthony Miraflor.

The Joint Task Force Malampaya under the AFP’s Western Command is tasked to secure the Malampaya Natural Gas Project from security threats, including terror attacks.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104506

Lorenzana rebukes ‘nitpicking’ Reds over new anti-terror bill

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Lorenzana rebukes ‘nitpicking’ Reds over new anti-terror bill (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana scored communist rebels and their allies for painting a negative impression on a new measure that will boost the country's anti-terrorism law.

"What these detractors, mostly Reds and their allies, have done is to pick some provisions and add their own interpretations to scare people. People need not fear. The proposed law has safeguards of civil liberties and sanctions to law enforcement agencies," he said in a message to reporters late Sunday.

Lorenzana also assured the public that this law will not be used against the political opposition and progressive groups, adding that it was intensively tackled and debated during deliberations.

"This bill was deliberated lengthily by both Houses and all sectors were invited as resource persons during these deliberations. All sides were heard," he added.

Earlier, Lorenzana lauded the two committees of the House of Representatives for approving a measure that will beef up the law against terrorism and effectively repeal Republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007.

He added that a new and stronger law against terrorism is needed as the Human Security Act of 2007 is no longer capable of curbing evolving terror threats.

On Friday, the House Committee on Public Order and Safety and Committee on National Defense and Security, chaired by Masbate Rep. Narciso Bravo Jr. and Iloilo Rep. Raul Tupas, respectively, approved the still-unnumbered substitute bill, which seeks to prevent, prohibit and penalize terrorism.

The proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 would provide a strong legal backbone to support the country's response to terrorism, provide the law enforcers the much-needed tools to protect the people from the threat of terrorism and at the same time safeguard the rights of those accused of the crime.

The Senate version introduced provisions imposing life imprisonment without parole on those who will propose, incite, conspire and participate in the planning, training, preparation, and facilitation of a terrorist act; as well as those who will provide material support to terrorists, and recruit anyone to be a member of a terrorist organization.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104500

Successful ops bring AFP closer to 'vision' of wiping out Reds

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Successful ops bring AFP closer to 'vision' of wiping out Reds (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday said their series of successful operations bring the organization closer to its vision of defeating the communist insurgency.

"As we come close to the second half of this year, we are proud to report that our internal security operations continue to bring us closer to realizing our vision of a complete victory against the communist scourge in the country,” AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said in a statement.

This came as six members of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed and eight others were captured in joint military and police operations from May 24 to 30.

“Our troops on the ground continue to prove their operational excellence in neutralizing the threats posed by the communist terrorist group in the countryside. Our strong partnership with local chief executives also helped NPA members to safely return to the fold of the law,” he added.

On May 24, a rebel was killed in combat operations by troops of the 26th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis, Agusan Del Sur. Found in the encounter site were three AK-47 automatic rifles.

Meanwhile, a notorious NPA unit leader identified as Allan Aguilando was killed in an encounter with troops of the 43rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay New Rizal, Catarman, Northern Samar on May 26. A .45-caliber pistol was recovered from him.

Meanwhile, a joint law enforcement operation on May 27 conducted by the 2nd Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police (PNP) resulted in an encounter with around 15 NPA rebels in Barangay Mabiton, Claveria, Masbate.

Two cadavers were found abandoned in the encounter site along with seven assorted firearms.

Joint AFP-PNP elements also figured in an encounter with NPA rebels reportedly extorting at a banana plantation in Barangay Langgal, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat on May 29. Two NPA members were killed in the clash while troops recovered a .38-caliber pistol, a hand grenade, and PHP150,000 extortion money.

Similar operations also resulted in the capture of several NPA personalities — one in Agusan Del Norte on May 25; three in North Cotabato with two assorted firearms on May 26; two in San Mariano, Isabela with three assorted firearms and another two in Surigao del Sur on May 28.

Meanwhile, two NPA rebels were apprehended in Surigao del Sur after being intercepted on board an ambulance at a checkpoint on May 30.

They were identified as Joel Montero Delahiba and Jessica Quillano Agustin and were found to have sustained their wounds from the massive military operations at the boundary of Agusan Del Sur and Surigao del Sur early in May.

Meanwhile, 18 rebels have voluntarily surrendered to authorities from May 8 to 27.

These include two NPA members in Davao del Norte on May 8, 13 in Sarangani on May 25, and two NPAs and one "underground movement" member in South Cotabato on May 27. The rebels surrendered a total of nine firearms.

"The 18 (rebels) who surrendered was a result of the comprehensive collaboration between AFP troops in the ground and stakeholders through NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict). Our focused military operation not only provided the sustained security envelope for the local community but also the impetus to implement and sustain various social and economic programs under the NTF-ELCAC," AFP public affairs office chief Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata said.

So far, government troops have neutralized a total of 2,069 NPA members this year and seized 615 assorted firearms from the communist terrorist group.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104503

Gov’t delivers aid to 120 families displaced in Army-NPA encounter in Iligan

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From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Gov’t delivers aid to 120 families displaced in Army-NPA encounter in Iligan  (By 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion)

Featured Image

The local government of Iligan City together with the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Bravo Company of 1st CMO Battalion and Iligan Police Mobile Force deliver relief aid to some 120 families in Iligan City displaced by the recent encounter between the Army and NPA. (4th Mech)

BALO-I, Lanao del Norte, June 1 (PIA) -- The local government of Iligan City together with the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Bravo Company of 1st CMO Battalion and Iligan Police Mobile Force delivered relief aid to some 120 displaced families from four sitios in Brgy. Mainit, Iligan City following an encounter between the Philippine Army’s troops and members of the New People’s Army on May 27, 2020.

These families, along with 26 other front liners of the barangay, received 12 kilos of rice, assorted canned goods, and noodles. The children also received psychosocial intervention and toys from the army.

They are temporarily staying in two schools, a social hall and a relative’s house while government forces are conducting pursuit and clearing operation.

Lt Col Domingo G Dulay Jr, commander of 4th Mech Bn said that he appreciated the prompt response of Mayor Celso Regencia and Congressman Frederick Siao in addressing the needs of the evacuees especially in this time were COVID-19 pandemic is also affecting the country.

He said, “We did not desire for the clash to occur, however, we have to perform our duty to protect the people after receiving complaints that members of the communist-terrorist group are terrorizing residents to get foodstuff and money.”

During the clash with NPA at Sitio Pudog in Brgy. Mainit, a soldier was wounded after he was hit on his arm which went through his anterior chest wall after the 30-minute firefight. The said soldier is now recovering and in a stable condition in a military hospital in Cagayan de Oro City.

The troops are confident that some NPA members were also wounded in the clash based on bloodstains in the encounter site.

Amidst the COVID 19 pandemic, unscrupulous groups and criminals such as the communist NPA terrorists continue to commit dastardly acts of violence against hapless civilian populace. 


Displaced children receive psychosocial intervention and toys from the Philippine Army. (4th Mech)

On May 28, elements of NPA were also reported burning houses and a church in the neighboring municipality of Opol after being denied of foodstuff. The poor were robbed of their food and belongings and were used as human shields to avoid government humanitarian operations.

BGen Facundo Palafox IV, commander of 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade, calls on all local chief executives to support the national government’s fight against these criminals and create an environment inhospitable to them so they can no longer cause harm and grief to the people.

We have suffered a lot, as a people and a nation, because of the threat of these communist NPA terrorists to our freedom and right to live peacefully under a democratic form of government.

“Amidst the COVID 19 pandemic, we all need to help each other. Your army will not waiver nor will we falter in our quest for peace. Despite these cowardly acts, we remain to extend a hand of peace and reconciliation to whoever wants to lay down their arms and come back to the folds of the law,” he said.

He also called on NPA terrorists to surrender and start anew with their families. “To those communist NPA terrorists, your family awaits your return. All you have to do is give up the fight of a futile and lost cause. Armed struggle worldwide is a passé and a thing of the past. The way to reconciliation is communication,” he added.

The government, through the Enhanced Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), has several socio-politico-economic packages for the former rebels who wish to surrender and join the mainstream of society. (4thMech/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1043477

Soldier wounded in NPA encounter in Paquibato

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From the Mindanao Times (Jun 1, 2020): Soldier wounded in NPA encounter in Paquibato (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

One soldier was wounded when troops from the 89th Infantry battalion clashed with communist rebels in Sitio Gulansing, Barangay Salapawan, Paquibato District on Saturday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Silas Trasmontero, the 89th IB commander, did not identify the wounded private first class to TIMES pending notification of his family.

The soldier sustained a gunshot wound on his left leg. He was among the members of the Scout platoon that was conducting clearing operations at the said area when they encountered more or less 10 New Peoples Army rebels belonging to Guerrilla Front 55 under Ka Baylan.

The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes.

He added that the said troops are part of the advanced security elements of community support program teams in sitios Sudlon and Old Colosas, both in Barangay Colosas.

After spending 20 minutes clearing the encounter site, another clash transpired at about 2:45 p.m., which lasted for 10 minutes.

Trasmontero said the wounded soldier was airlifted to the Panacan Station Hospital for treatment, but he is now out of danger. The remaining soldiers are still pursuing the rebels.

“People are now reporting the presence of the terrorist group in their respective areas, hence, the military was able to track and engage the armed group,” Trasmontero said.

“We continue to appeal to the people of Paquibato to continuously support the security forces to finalĺy stop their terroristic actions/extortion activities and eventually annihilate them. This way, we will be able to establish peaceful and conflict-resilient communities,” he further said.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/06/01/soldier-wounded-in-npa-encounter-in-paquibato/

Red Cross transport of wounded rebels part of mandate: official

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From the Mindanao Times (Jun 1, 2020): Red Cross transport of wounded rebels part of mandate: official (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

The International Committee of the Red Cross insisted that using its ambulances to transport two alleged communist rebels in Surigao del Sur was strictly humanitarian in nature and coordinated with the authorities.

On May 29, three Red Cross ambulances with eleven individuals on board, including two persons who have gunshot wounds, were intercepted at the provincial quarantine control point in Purok 3, Barangay Payasan, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Maj. Renel Serrano, the spokesperson of the Police Regional Office XIII, identified the two patients as Jea Angeles Perez, 22, a resident of P-4, Barangay Puyat, Carmen, Surigao del Sur (with a gunshot wound on her right leg), and Noel Dadang, 32, married, who sustained a gunshot wound on his left rib and parietal area.

But Boris Michel, head of the ICRC delegation in the Philippines, said in a statement that the medical transport was needed to provide the wounded individuals with appropriate treatment.

This action by the ICRC, with (the) assistance of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), was in fulfillment of our mission to prevent and alleviate suffering during armed conflict, he said, adding that it is an adherence to the international humanitarian law (IHL) or the law of armed conflict.

Intelligence info

The personnel manning the quarantine checkpoint were from Lianga Municipal Police Station of Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO) and 1st Surigao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company, together with the 9th Special Force Company of 3rd Special Forces Battalion.

They were alerted after receiving intelligence information regarding the transport of wounded guerrillas using a Red Cross ambulance.

Around 10:55 a.m., they flagged down the following vehicles:

1) White Toyota Hi-Ace Van ambulance with Red Cross Logo with four onboard including Noel Dadang;

2) White Toyota Land Cruiser, with ICRC logo with four onboard including Jea Angeles Perez;

3) White Toyota Land Cruiser with ICRC logo with three onboard.

The wounded persons were referred to Davao Regional Medical Center for medical treatment.

According to Michel, the ICRC does not have emergency medical services and only transports wounded or sick persons upon request.

However, he quickly clarified that the ICRC team was not arrested but was only intercepted. They were later allowed to pass, along with some security escorts.

The medical transfer to a hospital was successfully completed, he said. As a neutral organization, we will not interfere with subsequent actions by the authorities that may include investigations or arrests.

However, it is also part of their fundamental mandate to monitor the situation of the detainee.

He said the ICRC has been working in the Philippines since World War II, establishing a permanent presence in 1982. We work mainly in Mindanao, where internal armed conflicts continue to affect thousands of people, to assess and address the humanitarian situation. As part of our mandate, we regularly remind all parties of their obligations under IHL, the statement read.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/06/01/red-cross-transport-of-wounded-rebels-part-of-mandate-official/

Duterte certifies anti-terror bill as urgent

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Duterte certifies anti-terror bill as urgent (By Azer Parrocha)



President Rodrigo R. Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte has certified as urgent a bill that will give the country’s anti-terrorism law more teeth.

Duterte, in a letter to House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday, certified House Bill 6875, as urgent to allow the lower house to expedite the legislative process.

He called for the immediate passage of the bill “to address the urgent need to strengthen the law on anti-terrorism in order to adequately and effectively contain the menace of terrorist acts for the preservation of national security and the promotion of general welfare.”


In a virtual presser on Monday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana urged Congress to pass the bill before it goes on a recess this week.

"It is certified urgent bill para matapos ito bago mag-recess iyong Congress ngayong June 5 (so that it could be finished before the Congress goes on a recess this June 5)," Lorenzana said

Lorenzana also defended the bill from critics claiming it was an attack on freedom of speech or an avenue for red-tagging.

“Wala namang basehan iyong kanilang mga opposition dahil binasa ko iyong panukalang batas — nandito sa akin ngayon — iyon namang karapatan ng mga tao ay may sapat na provisions (Those who oppose the bill have no basis, the rights of the people are ensured under its provisions),” he said.

He also assured that law enforcement officials who abuse their powers would be penalized.

“Iyong mga law enforcement agencies ay may sapat ding kaparusahan sa mga nag-aabuso. So dapat walang ipangamba ang ating mga kababayan (Law enforcement agencies will also be punished if they commit abuses. So our citizens should not be worried),” he said.

In February, the Senate passed Senate Bill 1038 or proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 on third and final reading.

Two committees at the House of Representatives approved their version of the measure, which is similar to the Senate version on Friday (May 29).

Under the bill, persons who voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association, or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization, shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.

Suspected persons can be detained for 14 days without a warrant of arrest with an allowable 10-day extension.

A 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists can also be conducted by the police or the military, with an allowable 30-day extension.

The use of videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses will also be allowed under the measure.

To allay concerns of abuse, the Commission on Human Rights will be notified in case of detention of a suspected terrorist.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104615

AFP ready for troop re-deployment amid easing of quarantine rules

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): AFP ready for troop re-deployment amid easing of quarantine rules (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is ready to re-deploy its personnel following the easing of quarantine restrictions in Metro Manila and some parts of the country which took effect on Monday.

"We are prepared to deploy our personnel in relation to the changes in the local quarantine status," said AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a message to reporters.

He added that these deployments will be done together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and in coordination with the local government units.

"No changes yet, but we will make adjustments in the distribution of AFP personnel as may be necessary based on the developments starting today (Monday), Arevalo said.

Aside from Metro Manila, Davao City, the regions of Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and the provinces of Albay and Pangasinan shifted to a general community quarantine (GCQ) to facilitate the gradual reopening of the economy, from the stringent two-month enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

Meanwhile, Arevalo said they are ready to provide military vehicles to assist commuters affected by limited mass transport operations.

"The dispatch (of military vehicles), however, is based on the (advice) of MMDA (Metropolitan Manila Development Authority). They determine the location where there is a need to send our vehicles. This will also ensure that we do not add up to the traffic congestion in some areas," he added.

On Monday, the AFP has dispatched six vehicles in Batasan and Philcoa area in Quezon City and 11 vehicles in other areas determined by the MMDA.

"AFP chief, Gen. Filemon Santos Jr. commits to continue to provide commuter assistance in coordination with MMDA to alleviate the concerns of the riding public who might have encountered difficulties on the first day of GCQ in the NCR (National Capital Region). These are over and above the buses we have been providing for Health Workers since Day 1 of the lockdown to date," Arevalo said.

He added that 48 military vehicles are on standby and are ready for dispatch in areas to be determined by the MMDA.

GCQ start peaceful

Meanwhile, PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa, said the first day of GCQ in Metro Manila and the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) in the rest of the country was generally peaceful and orderly.

This is based on field reports gathered by the PNP Command Center from police regional offices indicating generally peaceful peace and order situation nationwide.

Except for reports of stranded commuters due to inadequate public transportation, no other significant reports of major untoward incidents were recorded since the opening hours of June 1.

Gamboa has assured the high state of readiness of the PNP to extend maximum assistance to provide safety and security to all workers who will report back to work in the succeeding days. He also reminded the public that checkpoints, curfew, travel restrictions, strict enforcement of physical distancing, and minimum health standards will remain enforced in all areas under GCQ and MGCQ.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104592

Duterte appoints new PCG commandant

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Duterte appoints new PCG commandant (By Azer Parrocha)



Newly-appointed Philippine Coast Guard Commandant George Ursabia Jr.

President Rodrigo Duterte has named Vice Admiral George Ursabia Jr. as new commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

“The Palace confirms that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed today, June 1, 2020, the appointment of Mr. George Villareal Ursabia, Jr. as commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed in a statement.


Roque expressed confidence that Ursabia’s appointment as 29th commandant “will bring the PCG closer to its vision of being a world-class guardian of the sea.”

“We wish the new commandant good luck as he begins to lead the PCG in this challenging time,” Roque said.

Prior to his appointment, Ursabia was commander of the PCG-Marine Environmental Protection Command and the Task Group Laban Covid-19 Water Cluster.

Ursabia, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1987, was one of the three senior flag officers recommended by Transport Secretary Art Tugade to assume the PCG’s top post. The two others are Vice Admiral Leopoldo Laroya and Rear Admiral Jose William Isaga.

Ursabia will replace Admiral Joel Garcia who formally vacated his post on Monday after 35 years of service.

Duterte appointed Garcia at the helm of PCG in October 2019.

During his term, Garcia implemented the Safety, Security, and Environmental Numbering (SSEN) System — a database of 232,205 registered vessels in various port areas and waterways across the country that allows the PCG to prevent the use of watercraft in maritime infractions such as piracy, terrorism, kidnap-for-ransom, and smuggling.

It was also under his leadership when the National Coast Watch Center partnered with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Bureau of Customs to protect the Philippine coastlines against illegal drug smuggling, transportation and transshipment.

Under Garcia’s leadership, manpower reached 17,000 at the end of May 2020, contributing more than 50 percent or 9,500 personnel his tenure.

Garcia has also been on top of the isolation of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amid the prevailing coronavirus disease (Covid-19) health crisis.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104573

First Infantry Division recruits 3 nurses

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): First Infantry Division recruits 3 nurses (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



MILITARY NURSES. Three nurses take oath Monday (June 1, 2020) as they enlist into the military service in line with the recruitment program of the Philippine Army. Officials say the new recruits will be deployed as front-liners for the government's coronavirus disease 2019 response. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 1st Infantry Division)

Three newly recruited nurses took their oath in the Army on Monday to serve the country and expressed readiness to be front-liners in the government's coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response, a top military official said Monday.

Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, the Army's 1st Infantry Division commander, said the three were enlisted in line with the Philippine Army's recruitment program and the need of registered nurses in the organization.

They took their oath in a ceremony in Camp Cesar Sang-an that houses the Army’s 1st Infantry Division in the town of Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur.

Ponio, who administered the oath, said the new recruits were enlisted into the regular force to beef up the workforce of Camp Sang-an Station Hospital amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ponio said the nurses, whose names were withheld, will be ranked Privates as required in the special enlistment program of the Philippine Army.

As part of the acceptance of the unit, Ponio, together with Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., Assistant Division commander; and Col. Pompeyo Jason Almagro, Division Chief of Staff; pinned the unit patch, Tabak, to the three recruits.

“You are called to serve, reinforce, and strengthen the organization in its fight against the invisible enemy. Likewise, our support to the LGUs (local government units) who continuously serve the people who were affected by the pandemic is sustained,” Ponio said.

“Serve with courage, loyalty, and professionalism. Fight as a team, and together we can beat Covid-19,” he added.

He said the three newly enlisted privates will undergo military training upon the start of regular quota for candidate soldiers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104559

13 more NPA rebels yield in South Cotabato

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): 13 more NPA rebels yield in South Cotabato (By Richelyn Gubalani)



Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-12. (File photo courtesy of PRO-12)

Thirteen more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered along with several high-powered firearms over the weekend to authorities in South Cotabato province, a police official said Monday.

Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-12, said
the rebels decided to yield on Saturday in Tantangan town, South Cotabato, and take part in the government’s reintegration program.


Capellan said the returnees initially signified their intention to surrender during an outreach activity last Friday conducted by the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) in Sitio El Naf, Barangay Dumadalig, Tantangan town.

Before the activity ended, he said a man approached one of the facilitators and introduced himself as alias “Ka Jimbo,” who claimed to be a member of an NPA unit in the area.

“He and his comrades reportedly wanted to voluntarily surrender due to the hardships that they were experiencing in the mountainous,” Capellan said in a statement.

The police officials said the group was part of an NPA unit under the Guerilla Front 73 that operates in the boundaries of Koronadal City and the municipalities of Banga, Norala, and Tantangan.

Capellan said the rebels' movements have reportedly become limited in the past months due to the internal security operations conducted by the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) in the area, he said.

Capellan said the group was aware of the TF-ELCAC’s activities and wanted to avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

They surrendered two firearms with magazines, a homemade 12-gauge shotgun with one magazine, a .357 magnum handgun, a homemade single-shot 12-gauge pistol, a homemade long barrel M16 rifle with a long magazine, a hand grenade, and several subversive documents.

He said the former rebels were brought to the Tantangan municipal police station to undergo debriefing and documentation, and will eventually be enrolled into the ECLIP for them to avail of financial and livelihood assistance.

The outreach activity in Tantangan, which was dubbed “Adopt a Poor Family,” was spearheaded by various units under the PRO-12 and SCPPO.

It was supported by the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-Region 12.

During the activity, at least 150 families received food packs and participated in awareness activities on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, gender issues, disaster response and safety, anti-illegal drugs, anti-illegal gambling, environmental protection, and cybercrime concerns.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104568

2 NPA rebels arrested in Zamboanga del Norte

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): 2 NPA rebels arrested in Zamboanga del Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



ARRESTED. Two suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels were arrested in a law enforcement operation Saturday (May 30, 2020) in Barangay Delucot, Godod municipality, Zamboanga del Norte. The two allegedly belong to the NPA's Front Committee Feliciano A. (Photo courtesy of Police Regional Office-9)

Authorities arrested two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in an intelligence-driven law enforcement operation in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte, a top police official said Monday.

Brig. Gen. Froilan Quidilla, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) director,
identified the arrested NPA rebels as Jovi Sangcom, 24, and Joel Sandao, 38.


Quidilla said the two NPA rebels were arrested through a search warrant around 1:30 a.m. Saturday in Barangay Delucot, Godod town, Zamboanga del Norte.

Sangcom and Sandao belong to the NPA’s Front Committee Feliciano "A" and involved in gun-running and extortion activities in the municipalities that fall under the third congressional district of Zamboanga del Norte, he said.

The two rebels yielded a magnum .22-caliber and .38-caliber revolvers with ammunition.

Quidilla said the suspects were turned over to the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for documentation and proper disposition.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104531

Pregnant NPA rebel meets mom 2 years after leaving home

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): Pregnant NPA rebel meets mom 2 years after leaving home (By Alexander Lopez)



REUNITED WITH MA. Wena (right), the 18-year-old pregnant former member of the communist New People’s Army who surrendered to the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion on May 16, is finally reunited with her mother Dina (names concealed for security reasons) on Sunday (May 31, 2020) at the headquarters of 23IB in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. Dina also called on her husband and son, both NPA fighters, to surrender and return to the fold of the law. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

A pregnant New People’s Army (NPA) rebel who surrendered in the Agusan del Norte town of Buenavista was finally reunited with her mother on Sunday (May 31) at the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion headquarters based in the said town.

Alias "Wena", 18, together with another pregnant NPA alias “Apay”, 38,
were rescued by the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion after residents in Sitio Cabalalahan informed the Army of their presence in Barangay Guinabsan, Buenavista, on May 16.

The two were left behind by their companions at the house of an alleged rebel supporter
following the military operations against the rebels after the May 10, 2020 firefight that killed 15 NPA combatants.


“I thank Dina (name concealed for security reasons) for paying a visit to her daughter who is already four months pregnant. During this time, her daughter, who is only 18, needs utmost care from a mother,” Lt. Col. Francisco Molina, the commander of 23rd IB, told Philippine News Agency on Monday (June 1).

Molina said the 23IB arranged the reunification of Wena and her mother "whom she did not see for nearly two years since she joined the NPA movement".

In an interview with her daughter on Sunday, Dina said she was grateful her daughter is still alive despite the dangers she faced while with the rebels.

Dina, 51 said Wena, the seventh among her nine children, was recruited by the NPA when she was 16 while studying in Buenavista National High School.

“She was a working student and already in Grade 9 when she ran away together with a friend who was an NPA member. I want her to finish her schooling but I failed. She was lured by her friend to join the NPA,” Dina said.

She said that aside from Wena, two other members of her family were taken by the NPA, to include her husband and a son.

“I have not seen my husband and my son for three years now. I heard words that they were among those killed during the encounter last May 10. I already lost contact with them,” Dina said.

NPA destroys families
Dina said she experienced hardships raising her family without her husband.

“We first stayed in Sitio Bulak, Olave, Agusan del Norte but life was very difficult there considering the distance from the town center. A relative helped me transfer to Sitio Dalao-an where my family is allowed to farm inside a 20-hectare land. Now I am growing corn, cassava, and vegetables to sustain our daily needs,” Dina said.

She added that of her nine children, only three are left in her care as the others had already settled with their families in other provinces.

“It is hard to stand as family head without the support of a husband. I cannot understand why the NPA has to take husbands and children, even minors, to join their fight against the government,” Dina said.

She said she has long been aware of the presence of the NPA in their area and was also convinced by the rebels to join them.

“What will happen to my remaining children if I join them? They will die of hunger. I was resolved then, deep in my heart, not to join the NPA,” Dina said, adding that she tried to stop her husband from joining the NPA but failed.

“He was mad at me as I was trying to stop him and my son. He was very angry with me. So I just stopped convincing them. And then one day they left us,” Dina said.

She said she was even more heartbroken upon learning that Wena also joined the communist rebels.

“How I wish I have a complete family. It’s only in a dream as the NPA movement took them away from me. Now I do not know if they are still alive,” Dina said.

A mother's appeal

If given a chance to face the NPA, Dina said her appeal to them would be to stop recruiting the youth and help communities in preserving families.

“When my family members left to join the NPA movement, all I did was cry. There was nothing I could do,” Dina said.

She said the NPA leadership regularly spreads false promises in their community, "spreading lies" about the support they supposedly give to the families of their combatants.

“What support? They are lying. For more than three years that my husband and son, and lately my daughter were with them, not a single centavo reached our home from them. I have to exert efforts to do farm work and paid daily to earn money. I need to plant crops hoping for some harvest to earn some income. That’s the truth,” Dina said.



STOP THE RECRUITMENT. Dina (her name is concealed for security reasons) appeals to the communist New People's Army to stop recruiting minors and young people as she criticizes the rebels for destroying her own family. Dina is reunited with her daughter, a pregnant former member of the NPA, on Sunday (May 31) at the headquarters of the Army's 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

She said if her husband or son would call her in the coming days, she will again convince them to go home and surrender.

Dina also asked the youth to “think first and consider your families and future” and not be easily persuaded by the NPA recruitment.

She also expressed gratitude to the 23IB for taking care of her pregnant daughter.

“After giving birth, I want her to continue her studies. She told me about the difficulties she experienced while inside the NPA movement. I hope she already learned lessons,” Dina said.

In an interview on Monday, Molina renewed his call for families whose sons and daughters are still inside the NPA movement to convince them to abandon the NPA and return to their homes.

“The government is always ready to accept you, so as your families and communities. While you have still time, decide now to go back to the fold of the law,” Molina said.

He also made it clear that the Army will sustain its military operations against NPA combatants in the area.

“We are committed to perform our mandate as soldiers. We will pursue you as we continue to secure our communities from your terroristic activities. Surrender now before it is too late,” Molina said.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104541

2 suspected NPA rebels die in extortion try shootout

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): 2 suspected NPA rebels die in extortion try shootout (By Noel Punzalan)



Google map of Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat.

Police killed in a shootout two alleged communist guerillas who were engaged in extortion activities in Senator Ninoy Aquino (SNA) town, Sultan Kudarat, Sunday morning.

Lt. Col. Lino Capellan, the spokesperson of the Police Regional Office -12, identified one of two slain suspects as Raminie Romo Sambilad, 26, of Barangay Langgal in the same municipality.

The identity of the other suspect has yet to be determined, he added.

Prior to the operation, an owner of a banana plantation informed the police about an alleged demand letter of the NPA Front 73 for a PHP150,000 revolutionary tax, Capellan said.


Police intelligence operatives immediately validated the report and asked for the cooperation of the farm owner for the conduct of an entrapment operation, he said.

“The plantation owner called the mobile phone number indicated on the letter and acted as if she agrees to the demand of a certain alias Gorio who is an alleged sub-leader of the NPA group,” the police official said, adding the SNA police immediately hatched an entrapment operation plan for the agreed meeting place in Sitio Tower of the village.

Capellan said at 10:30 a.m., the two suspects arrived in the area on board a motorcycle.

A female police agent acting as the plantation owner gave the bag purportedly carrying the money to the suspects. However, after the transaction, the suspects sensed the presence of police officers surrounding them and immediately pulled out their firearms and opened fire, triggering a shootout, Capellan said.

“As a result, the two suspects suffered gunshot wounds and were brought to the hospital but both were declared dead on arrival,” Capellan said.

Seized from the suspects were a hand grenade; a .38-caliber revolver, a 9-mm pistol, suspected dried marijuana leaves wrapped in a small plastic, two mobile phones, a motorcycle, and the two bundles of bogus money for P150,000 with two original PHP1,000 bills on top.

All the recovered items were brought to the SNA police for proper documentation.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104530

3 NPAs yield, wish to reunite with families in Surigao Sur

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From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1, 2020): 3 NPAs yield, wish to reunite with families in Surigao Sur (By Alexander Lopez)



NEW LIFE. Lt. Col. Warren Munda (left), commander of the Army's 75th Infantry Battalion, welcomes the three communist New People’s Army members who surrendered on May 31, 2020 at the 75IB headquarters in Barangay Maharlika, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. The surrenderers say they regret joining the communist rebel movement and now simply want a peaceful life with their families. (Photo courtesy of 75thIB)

Three communist New People's Army (NPA) combatants surrendered over the weekend in Surigao del Sur to the Army's 75th Infantry Battalion, saying they wanted to live peacefully with their families.

Lt. Col. Warren Munda, 75IB commander, said Monday (June 1)
the three NPA rebels belonged to Guerrilla Front (GF) 14 of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

Munda identified the three rebels as alias “Juan”, “Mario”, and “Fidel” who handed over an M16A1 rifle with M203 grenade launcher, one .30-caliber M2 Carbine rifle, an M1 Garand rifle, and three shotguns upon their surrender at the 75Ib headquarters in Bislig City on Sunday (May 31).


Munda is thankful for the three former rebels for deciding to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.

“The government and the Philippine Army will never be tired in assisting and supporting our surrenderers as they start to live anew with their families,” Munda said.

He also urged Surigao del Sur residents "to unite and defeat the NPA to end the insurgency problem that has been hampering the development initiatives of the government for the people" in the province.

In a statement provided by the military, NPA surrenderer Juan said he regretted abandoning his family when he joined the communist armed rebellion three years ago.

“The three years I spent with the NPA was useless. I abandoned my family for this useless cause. In the end, I got nothing from the NPA movement especially from their leaders,” Juan said.

Juan also thanked the government and the 75IB for “freeing them from imprisonment to the false ideals of the communist movement”.

“Now we can reunite with our families and communities. It’s been more than three years since the last time we saw them,” he added in the dialect.

Munda said the Army is now working to enroll the three former rebels to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

“They will receive immediate cash and livelihood assistance as well as remuneration for the surrendered firearms,” the Army official said.

He also cited the continuing support of the local government units (LGUs) and government line agencies to end the local communist armed conflict in Surigao del Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1104521

DILG's Año vehemently condems recruitment of minors by communist groups

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From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 1, 2020): DILG's Año vehemently condems recruitment of minors by communist groups (By Jerome Carlo R. Paunan)



CALOOCAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) -- Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año over the weekend has vehemently condemned the alleged recruitment of minors by what he termed as "communist terrorist groups" (CTG) and said this act is a clear violation of international law.

As Año called on leftist groups to free Alice Jasper (AJ) Lucena and other recruited youth “from the virus of communist terrorism,” the official also urged the Filipino youth to "maintain distancing, physically and online, from the leftist groups, and sanitize themselves of their polluted beliefs."

At the same time, the official lauded the Lucena couple for filing the petition of two writs before the Supreme Court.

To recall, the Supreme Court (SC) En Banc earlier directed leftist leaders to respond to the Show Cause Order issued on May 19 against respondents Kabataan party-list Representative Sarah Elago, Anakbayan Spokesperson Alex Danday, Anakbayan recruiters and members Chary Delos Reyes, Bianca Gacos, and Jayroven Ballais Villafuerte, and lawyer Maria Kristina Conti.

The show cause order was issued after the May 8 filing of petitions for the issuance of the writ of Habeas Corpus and Amparo by Francis and Relissa Lucena, the parents of AJ, against the respondents.

AJ, now 18 years old, was a minor two years ago when she was recruited by leftist youth organizations and had been missing since July 2019. In August 2019, AJ spoke in a press conference held by leftist lawmakers in Congress saying she voluntarily joined the CTGs.

“These CTGs cannot justify their recruitment of minors and child warriors which is a clear violation of international law. They cannot wash their hands of the brainwashing activities they do to mislead the youth towards communist terrorism,” Año said.

“Kayong CTGs ang limang dekada nang peste sa lipunan. Mas matindi pa kayo sa COVID-19. Pinapatay niyo ang kinabukasan ng kabataan at dinudurog ninyo ang puso ng mga magulang na nawawalan ng mga anak,” he said.

“You infect and contaminate our youth with your pretentious and false notion of nationalism. Kaya kayo hindi nagtatagumpay ay dahil hindi totoong para sa bayan ang inyong adhikain. Stop spreading the virus of communist terrorism,” he added.

The DILG Secretary emphasized, “As the country eases to a new normal against the COVID-19 pandemic, I urge the youth to maintain distancing, physically and online, from these leftist groups. Sanitize yourself of their polluted beliefs."

He said that the DILG, a member of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), lauds the Lucena couple for filing the petitions before the Supreme Court.

“The DILG, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), supports the Lucena couple in their unceasing efforts to get back their daughter from the custody of CTGs. As the law says, the family, being the foundation of the nation, is a basic social institution which public policy cherishes and protects. To the Lucena couple, we are behind you in our common fight against the recruitment of minors by the communist terrorist groups,” he said.

The lawyer of the Lucena couple contends that AJ’s life, liberty, and security were violated when she was a minor and is aggravated by the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic because she has no proper support, has become an out-of-school youth, and has no gainful employment.

The suit also sought a court order directing and ordering the immediate transfer of AJ to the care and custody of her parents in compliance with the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, compelling everyone to stay at home with their families.

Año assured them that the DILG will help in getting AJ back to her parents in compliance with the law and Constitution which states that the natural and primary right and duty of parents in the rearing of the youth for civic efficiency and the development of moral character shall receive the support of the government. The Constitution also mandates the State to promote and protect the youth’s physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. (PIA NCR) 

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