Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 9, 2020): Tagalog News: Mga dating rebelde sa Agusan del Sur, tumanggap ng ayuda mula sa gobyerno (By Jennifer P. Gaitano)

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Hulyo 9 (PIA) -- Bagamat patuloy ang banta ng coronavirus disease2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, hindi pa rin tumitigil ang gobyerno sa pagsugpo ng local communist armed conflict at pagbigay ng naaayon na interventions para sa mga apektadong residente na nasa liblib na lugar sa bayan ng La Paz sa Agusan del Sur.

Kasabay ng inilunsad na three-day Peace-Building Seminar kasama ang mga Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sa Barangay Kasapa II, nagkaisa rin ang mga residente sa isang Peace Rally at Ceremonial Signing ng resolusyon sa pagdeklara ng persona non-grata sa mga teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

Maliban dito, tumanggap din ang may 59 na former rebels ng cash assistance na nagkakahalaga ng P15,000 bawat isa. Apat na people’s organizations din ang tumanggap ng tissue culture lacatan plantlets na may kasamang organikong pampataba, at vegetables at corn seeds mula sa Provincial and Municipal Agriculture Offices.

Ayon kay Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., mas malawak na ngayon ang perspektibo ng mga IPs pagdating sa usaping pangkapayapaan at mas nagiging aktibo na rin ito sa paglahok sa mga aktibidad kasama ang lokal na pamahalaan at iba pang sektor.

Nakikiisa na ang IP sector sa kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa rebeldeng CPP-NPA. Ilan-ilan na rin ang sumuko at mas piniling mamuhay ng ligtas at payapa kasama ang pamilya lalu na ngayong may pandemya.

“Makakamtan lamang ang kapayapaan at pag-unlad sa isang komunidad kung ang lahat ng naninirahan dito ay nagkakaisa at tumutulong sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan ng lahat. Maraming salamat sa inyong suporta sa mga ginagawang hakbang ng gobyerno upang patuloy na matugunan ang pangangailangan ng mamamayan,” ani ni Cane.

Dagdag pa ng opisyal, magtatayo ng isang barangay health station para sa mga residente ng Barangay Kasapa II upang matugunan agad ang kanilang kalusugan lalu pa at nasa malayong parte ito ng nasabing bayan.

Binigyang-diin naman ni Mayor Michael Lim, na patuloy ang kanilang suporta sa presensya ng militar sa Barangay Kasapa II upang masigurong ligtas ang mamamayan at maayos na nakakapasok dito ang ibat-ibang kinakailangang inprastraktura para sa mga residente.

Samantala, target din ng pamahalaan na makapagtayo ng Secondary School at at Multi-Purpose Building para masiguro ang edukasyon ng mga kabataan rito. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1046899

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 9, 2020): Army Exec: NPA’s recruitment of minors is a terroristic act (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, July 9 (PIA) -- The Army’s 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade said that the recruitment of minors by the New People’s Army is a classic example of a terroristic act, as he called on parents to be more vigilant in looking after the welfare of their children.

Brigade Commander Colonel Marion Sison urged also the public to work with the Army here, who are working in Panay and Guimaras provinces.

“I believe no parent would like their child not to finish school, hold firearms, go to the mountains, and fight a senseless cause with strangers who do not care for their welfare,” Sison said.

He added “Would you like to see your children dead in an encounter because these terrorists recruited your children? If so, you are a failure as parents. Rich or poor, we all have the same hopes of a bright and safe future for our children.”

Sison likewise calls on educators to help in the protection and nurturing of the youth.

“As role models, you have a big impact on the growth of your students. You are the models they look up to. As second parents, you are among the frontliners of their defense, and we in the army are counting on you to help create a safe educational haven where they can grow away from violence,” he said.

This came after the death of Malvin Christian V Cruz also known as “LEAN/LUCAS” and Team Leader of Squad 3, Suyak Platoon, Southern Front, KomitengRehiyon-Panay in an encounter between the government troops and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) at Sitio Lay, Brgy. Dalije, Miagao, Iloilo last June 29.

The 21-year old student, who started as campus activist and was molded into becoming an active member of the CTG, was a promising student of Bachelor of Science in Statistics Circa at the University of the Philippines Visayas –Miagao Campus in 2015-2016.

During this period, Cruz was an active member of the League of the Filipino Students (LFS) in the UPV Miagao Campus, and also a member of IBON Foundation, a Non-Government Organization (NGO).

Cruz, who was recruited into the NPA ranks at the age of 17 years old, and being an active member of LFS, used to join rallies and campaigns against the government to address educational issues, and alleged school repression.

Sison said that the NPA’s recruitment of minors as child warriors to take part in their armed struggle is a clear violation of Rule 136 of the International Humanitarian Law and Republic Act 11188 or the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act.

“The loss of another youth in the senseless communist armed struggle more than underscores the relevance of the signing of the Anti-Terrorism bill into law,” he said.

He added that it highlighted the need for such measures “so that our youth will be protected from the clutches of the communist terrorists.”

Meanwhile, Sison and the entire Bayanihan Brigade expressed condolences to the bereaved family of Cruz.

“We send our prayers and condolences to Cruz’s family and loved ones, rest assured, your army in Panay, and Guimaras will continue its mandate to serve and secure people against these terrorist groups,” he said. (JBG-PIA6/With report from 1Lt Hazel Joy Durotan/ CMO-301Bde)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1047081

From the Panay News (Jul 9, 2020): Army, Reds clash in Tapaz; 16-year-old lad hurt (By Ruby Silubrico)

A 16-year-old lad was accidentally shot during an encounter between the Philippine Army (PA) and Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Barangay Tacayan, Tapaz, Capiz.

The victim was taken to the Tapaz District Hospital by members of the PA’s 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB). He sustained a gunshot wound on the right thigh.

Members of the NPA’s Central Front and 12IB personnel clashed in the area around 6:30 a.m. yesterday. The firefight lasted for several minutes before the rebels fled.

According to the victim’s father, the lad was mistakenly shot by an NPA member.

The victim was wearing camouflage shorts while fetching water in a nearby river, thus he was thought to be a member of the PA.

Army Major Cenon Pancito III, spokesperson of the PA’s 3rd Infantry Division said the 12IB personnel were deployed in the area as part of the Community Support Program (CSP) team.

No 12IB members were wounded in the firefight, he added.

Colonel Marion Sison, PA’s 301st Infantry Brigade commander, slammed the rebels for bringing danger to the village.

“The rebels do not care whether civilians or properties will be damaged or destroyed because they are in despair. But this will not intimidate us. This will instead propel us to dismantle them,” he said.
“Our CSP is hurting them because it is very effective in addressing the root-causes of the insurgency. It creates a tangible damage to their propaganda,” Sison added.

Despite the incident, Sison assured the Tapaznons the CSP team – supported by the local government unit and community – will continue to bring the government closer to them.

https://www.panaynews.net/army-reds-clash-in-tapaz-16-year-old-lad-hurt/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 10, 2020): ASG members surrender to soldiers for another chance at life (By 11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers")

The Joint Intelligence and Civil Miltary Operations efforts of 9FAB, AAR and 45IB, 5ID, which are both component units of 1st Brigade Combat Team, PA led to the surrender of two (2) Abu-Sayyaf members namely, Alhadi Abdulgani (@LADI INGOG) and Nassae Pasihul (@Jelam, @Nash) under Abu Sayyaf leader Radullan Sahiron on 03 July 2020.

They also surrendered two (2) firearms, one (1) M16A1 rifle and one (1) M1 Garand rifle.

Alhadi Abdulgani was convinced by his mother-in-law to surrender for the reason that among the seven (7) siblings who are all members of the ASG, he is the only one left alive. His other siblings, including his father, were killed during previous encounters.

Alhadi Abdulgani also shared that he was the brother of the Ajang-Ajang subleader, Suraka Ingog, who was responsible for the Jolo Cathedral Bombing on 28 January 2019.

He also confessed that when he surrendered to the government forces, he finally had the chance to see his daughter for the first time. He believes that if he reforms his ways, he’ll be able make things right with his daughter, make up for the lost time, and try to be the best father to her.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/asg-members-surrender-to-soldiers-for-another-chance-at-life/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 10, 2020): Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay Program para sa mga MATAKA (By 10 Infantry Division)

Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental – Nabenepisyohan ang mga miyembro ng MATAKA Community Association sa Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay Program ng Department of Trade and Industry sa lugar ng Brgy Kalbay ng nasabing bayan.

Dito ang dalawampung (20) former rebels na mga miyembro ng MATAKA ay nabigyan ng training at program upang madagdagan ang kanilang kaalaman sa paghahanap-buhay. Kasama ng DTI ang Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), PSWDO at Municipal Agriculture Office na siyang nagturo sa mga miyembro kung pano gumawa ng hollow blocks, pot-making at laundry soap.

Ayon kay @Marco laking pasasalamat niya dahil binigyan sila ng oportunidad na paunlarin pa ang kanilang asosasyon. “Gagawin namin ang lahat upang mapaunlad at hnd madismaya ang gobyerno sa mga tulong na binigay sa amin.”

Sa pahayag naman ni Lt. Col. Ronaldo G Valdez, Commander ng 73IB: “Ito na ang bunga ng ELCAC na pinatupad ng ating Pangulo. Kung kayat sa nilagdaang Anti Terrorism Law, kami ay sumusuporta at gagawin ang lahat upang protektahan ang sambayanang Pilipino. Rest assured na ito ay aming ipapatupad ng tama at hindi sasamantalahin ang nasabing batas.”

Binigyan din ang asosyasyon ng hollow block molder, shovel, at semento bilang puhunan sa kanilang hanap-buhay.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/negosyo-serbisyo-sa-barangay-program-para-sa-mga-mataka/

Posted to Kalinaw News (Jul 10, 2020): CPP-NPA-NDF, guilty for violating International Humanitarian Law and Anti-Terorrism Law (By 10 Infantry Division)

Makilala, Cotabato – A 40kg IHL and Philippine Anti-terror Law-banned terror material was surrendered by former NPA member to the 39th Infantry Battalion,10th Infantry Division in Sitio Datal Pitak, Barangay Colonsabac, Davao del Sur on July 8, 2020.

Through delicate identification and validation of information revealed by the former NPA, elements of the 39IB sets out for a mission to save possible victims of a massive IHL-banned landmine laid open to discriminately inflict casualties by the communist NPA terrorists.

It is a “to-whom-it-may-concern bomb.”

A high rise building could blow up in a second and could immediately kill a hundred people once detonated, said EOD personnel. This 40kg-landmine has been deactivated by EOD-trained personnel of 39IB and PNP.

Government forces and civilians of barangay Colonsabac is now safe from harm laid by members of CPP-NPA-NDF. “Truely, CPP-NPA-NDF is a terrorist organization. Before my surrender, a lot of our landmines disrupted military movements and have inflicted casualties both military and civilians,” reveals alias Puting.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/cpp-npa-ndf-guilty-for-violating-international-humanitarian-law-and-anti-terorrism-law/

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 9, 2020): NPA, Binigwasan ang Kriminal at Teroristang AFP at PNP ng Rehimeng Duterte

JULIO MONTANA

SPOKESPERSON

NPA-PANAY

CORONACION CHIVA “WALING-WALING” COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

JULY 09, 2020

Hindi nakulong ng militaristang lockdown ang rebolusyonaryong paglaban ng mamamayan sa isla ng Panay laban sa sindak at karahasang hinahasik ng mapanalasang mga opensibang operasyon militar sa kanayunan na mas mapanganib pa sa COVID.

Angkin ang malawak at malalim na suporta ng mamamayan, binigwasan ng mga yunit ng NPA ang mersenaryong tropa ng 3rdID sa Panay kasabay sa pagtulong sa mamamayan na pangalagaan ang kanilang kalusugan sa gitna ng pandemya. Mayo 3, 2020 hinarass ng isang tim ng NPA ang bagong itinayong CAFGU detatsment sa Brgy. Barasan, Igbaras, Iloilo.

Pagkasunod na linggo, binulabog ng putok ng NPA ang Anhawan detatsment sa Janiuay, Iloilo noong Mayo 11 at kinabukasan naman ang Apong detatsment sa Sibalom, Antique. Umaga ng Mayo 25 sekretong nalapitan at pinaputukan ang Cafgu detatsment sa Brgy. Katipunan, Tapaz, Capiz. Noong Hunyo 22 hinaras naman ang Trangka detachment sa Maasin, Iloilo. At nitong huli, 4 ang patay at 3 ang nasugatan sa tropa ng 61stIB ng tambangan ang kanilang convoy sa hi-way sa sakop ng Brgy. Igbucagay, Hamtic Antique ng Hulyo 2 ng gabi.

Naabot ng mahabang kamay ng rebolusyonaryong hustisya ang sagad-saring ahente sa paniktik ng IPPO Provincial Intelligence Unit at Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) si P/MSgt Arnel Paurillo ng parusahan ito ng isang yunit isparo ng Napoleon Tumagtang Command (NTC) noong alas 9:30 ng gabi ng Hunyo 15, 2020, sa Brgy. Teniente Benito, Tubungan, Iloilo.

Nadis-armahan naman ang intel asset ng PNP na si Nicolas Capeña ng Brgy. Barasan, Leon, Iloilo sa checkpoint na itinayo ng NTC noong Hunyo 1, 2020. Nakuha sa nasabing mga ahente sa paniktik ang 3 pistola, mga bala, at iban pang kagamitan.

Itinago naman sa publiko ng 3ID, PA ang kanilang mga patay at iba pang natamong kaswalti bunga ng mga patraidor at bigo nilang mga pag-atake at nang mga matagumpay na pagdepensa at opensiba ng NPA sa panahon ng tigil-putokan at patuloy na pandemya. Kalakaran na ito ng AFP para makaiwas sa ibayong kahihiyan at palabasin na sa kanila palagi ang bentaha.

Samantala, isa ang naging kaswalti ng NPA resulta ng nasabing mga pang-aatake. Aming pinaparangalan si Ka Lean/Lucas, Malvin Christian Cruz, sa tunay na pangalan sa kanyang katapangan at pag-alay ng kanyang lakas at talino para palayain ang bayan mula sa kamay ng malupit na rehimen.

Hindi na makaya pang tabunan at pigilan ng mga linubid na kasinungalingan ng AFP at PNP ang kumukulong poot ng mamamayan na hindi na makatiis sa kriminal na kapabayaan at kapalpakan ng rehimeng Duterte. Malaki ang pananagutan ng AFP at PNP sa maraming kaso ng pamamaslang, pananakot at red tagging sa mga progresibo at inosenteng sibilyan para bigyang matwid ang kanilang panlulupig.

Malakas na nanawagan ang Coronacion “Waling-waling” Chiva Command sa lahat na rebolusyonaryo at makabayang mamamayan na higpitan ang pagkakaisa para labanan ang korap, tiraniko, pahirap at traidor na rehimen ni Duterte. Patuloy na suportahan ang armadong pakikibaka bilang pinakamahuhusgang armas sa pagdepensa sa demokratikong interes ng mamamayan at paghatid sa pagbagsak ng pasistang paghahari.

Ibagsak ang Rehimeng US-Duterte! Sumapi sa NPA!

https://cpp.ph/statement/npa-binigwasan-ang-kriminal-at-teroristang-afp-at-pnp-ng-rehimeng-duterte/

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 9, 2020): We will remember Ka Lean: Youth Inspiration, Hero and Martyr — Concha Araneta

CONCHA ARANETA

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-PANAY

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 09, 2020

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Panay salutes and gives highest honor to our people’s martyr, Ka Lean. We are extending our condolences and sympathy to his family, friends, and former circles. He was martyred last June 29, 2020 because of ceaseless and intense military operations in Southern Panay.

A brave and joyful revolutionary, he selflessly offered his life to the oppressed. He volunteered to become a member of the New Peoples Army last June 2017 right after his 18th birthday.
Ka Lean had served hundreds upon hundreds of poor farmers dispossessed of land and denied of politico-economic justice. He is one of the red fighters engaged in the campaign against the Covid19 pandemic- reaching out to communities to render appropriate medical and economic interventions for the people. He served in various technical and political education efforts to benefit poor farmers. Together with other red fighters, Ka Lean mobilized the masses for improved farm production in anti-feudal campaigns, and forged community unity among them. Ka Lean served the people well.

Like many young martyrs, he is an inspiration to the youth to pursue the revolution for the establishment of the People’s Democratic Government. His willingness to empower and serve the poor stretched beyond his most comfortable spaces. He understood that the problems of the youth and the people are rooted on the inherent structural defects of our country. Ultimately, he denied the illusory bourgeois path and decisively participated in the armed struggle to build a better future.

Ka Lean, although unfamiliar with the experiences of unforgiving poverty and hardship, openly embraced the challenges of simple life and hard struggle in the revolution. He lived with the poor and shared with them their practical experiences. He offered his intellect, energy, creativity, and youth to the people. His selfless sacrifice is a motivation worth emulating by every educated nationalist youth.

The life of Ka Lean is an immortal example that provides an alternative perspective to the dominant bourgeois individualism and idealism that distorted the concepts of service and love of country in public education institutions. The revolutionary alternative remains an imperative for the youth to challenge the perpetuating systemic inequality and injustice.

The present unbearable semi-colonial and semi-feudal conditions of the Philippine society with its repressive education system offers no positive future for the youth. The revolution on the other hand, provides a clear path for a socialist future that will be enjoyed by the left-out, oppressed, and forgotten classes. This path is being materialized everyday by the revolution.

The death of Ka Lean might be a joy for the fascist and a ‘material’ for their anti-democratic agenda. The anticommunist criminals will use his death to demoralize his family, schoolmates, friends, and comrades. As with other people’s martyrs, his photos would be vandalized, misrepresented, and condemned by the enemy. But all of these would be expunged by the genuine narratives of his life as an activist and a revolutionary.

On this very dark time of our country where tyrants and anticommunist criminals rule in shrunken spaces of so-called democracy, the youth must directly take part in the struggle and path that Ka Lean took. This is the only decisive way to achieve justice for the people and all victims of the reactionary state’s crimes. Let us remember that Ka Lean died fighting those who protect the fascist establishment.

The Filipino people are proud to have Ka Lean. His revolutionary life is an inspiration to the young and forever will be immortalized in the annals of the Filipino people’s history.

Long live the revolution!
Long live the hope of our nation! Long live Ka Lean!
Youth, join the New People’s Army!

“Ang kamatayan ay nangyayari sa lahat, ngunit may mga kamatayan na mas may halaga kesa iba. Sa pagsulong ng pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon, hindi maiiwasan na may mamatay at may mag-alay ng buhay. Ang mamatay na ipinaglalaban ang sambayanan, ay kahanga-hanga at kagalang-galang. Wala nang may mas makabuluhang kamatayan kundi ang mamatay na pinaglilingkuran ang sambayanan. Ang sakripisyo at kahirapan ay normal sa sinumang umaasam ng pagbabago sa lipunan.”
-Ka Lean, circa 2017

https://cpp.ph/statement/we-will-remember-ka-lean-youth-inspiration-hero-and-martyr-concha-araneta/

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Jul 9, 2020): Ang Ngurob | Hulyo 2020

JULY 09, 2020

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2020/07/09/ang-ngurob-hulyo-2020/

Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFPor NDF) Website (Jul 9, 2020): Tyrant Duterte is culpable for state terrorism and is compelling the people to wage armed revolution

By Jose Maria Sison, NDFP Chief Political Consultant
Duterte is trying in vain to scapegoat the CPP and NPA as pretext for state terrorism and nullifying basic civil and political rights of the people. He is making false claims against the CPP and NPA in order to scare the people and make them accept his law of state terrorism. As I have already pointed out in an earlier statement, there is a strong possibility that he will make false flag operations in order to misrepresent and vilify the revolutionary movement.

Duterte will always fail to misrepresent and vilify the CPP and NPA and the revolutionary mass movement as “terrorist” because they are motivated by the highest principles of the revolutionary proletariat and human civilization and shun anything that is offensive to the people whom they are striving to arouse, organize and mobilize to advance and win victory in the revolutionary struggle for national liberation and democracy against US imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism.

Duterte and his running dogs in the military and police are the ones committing gross and systematic violations of human rights and crimes against humanity. That’s why they have become liable for prosecution and trial before the International Criminal Court as well as before the people’s court system of the people’s democratic government in the Philippines. Now, they have the law of state terrorism which practically nullifies the entire Bill of Rights in the bourgeois liberal constitution of 1987, which is still better than the projected fascist constitution prepared by servants of Duterte in Congress.

Duterte and his running dogs in the military and police expose themselves as big liars. Every day in the commercial mass media, the propaganda offices of the tyrant, the military and police claim that the CPP, NPA, the revolutionary mass organizations and organs of political power have been dismantled or decimated several times over their estimated size by killings, surrenders and bribing local officials and communities. But these big liars insist that they still need a law of state terrorism to attack the civil and political rights of the entire people.

Duterte had the opportunity to negotiate a just peace with the NDFP based on a definite bourgeois-democratic program of genuine land reform and national industrialization but he preferred to terminate the peace negotiations in order to push his scheme of fascist dictatorship. And he sold out to China the oil and gas resources estimated at USD 26 trillion in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea. These resources would have been more than enough to finance the aforesaid program of genuine land reform and national industrialization.

If the tyrannical Duterte regime has its way in keeping and enforcing its law of state terrorism, it will have the unlimited license to attack and violate the basic democratic rights of the people to an extent and in ways far worse than the use by Marcos of the commander-in-chief provision in the Constitution in order to declare martial law in 1972. He let the Bill of Rights remain intact. In the case of Duterte’s law of state of state terrorism, it abolishes the Bill of Rights and the fascists are allowed to arrest, detain, torture, kill and confiscate bank assets and properties on the basis of mere suspicion and red-tagging.

If the tyrant Duterte and his military and police running dogs have their way, the Filipino people will suffer terribly more than ever before from the brutal violations of human rights and the rapid deterioration of their social and economic conditions. The Duterte regime has already bankrupted the entire economy and his own government by plundering the public treasury and by sinking the country in extreme indebtedness.

As a result of the intolerable and escalating conditions of oppression and exploitation under a law of state terrorism, the revolutionary movement of the people will grow in strength and advance more rapidly than during the years of 1972 to 1986 when those being threatened by martial law went underground and eventually joined the CPP and NPA. Thanks to the brutality and stupidity of Duterte and his armed minions, they are compelling many people to join the revolutionary underground and participate in the people’s war for national and social liberation against foreign and feudal domination.###

https://ndfp.org/tyrant-duterte-is-culpable-for-state-terrorism-and-is-compelling-the-people-to-wage-armed-revolution/

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 9, 2020): NPA terrorists attack police station, 4 wounded (By Nonoy Lacson)

Four policemen were wounded when a group of unidentified gunmen believed to be Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army terrorists (CNTs) attacked a municipal police station in Concepcion, Misamis Occidental early Thursday morning.

A police report reaching this city said the armed men attacked and sprayed with automatic gun fire the municipal station police station of Cencepcion town located in Barangay Putongan in Misamis Occidental at about 7:50 a.m. on Thursday.

The police report identified the wounded policemen as Police Cpl.Marvin Intong, SSgt. Larry Millan, Cpl. Leo Gumisad, and Patrolwoman Ritchel Tañola.

The firefight ensued for almost an hour in the village of Putongan, sending many residents in the village into panic.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/07/09/npa-terrorists-attack-police-station-4-wounded/

Opinion piece in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 9, 2020): The MDT and VFA as deterrence (By: Antonio T. Carpio)

The Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States are treaties to deter aggression, warning possible aggressors that they face the combined military might of the alliance should any aggression be committed against any of the treaty allies. The United Nations Charter, which outlaws wars of aggression, allows states to enter into collective self-defense treaties to repel aggression by other states.

To be an effective deterrence against foreign aggression, the MDT and the VFA must be beyond question as to their validity. Otherwise, possible aggressors will not be deterred as they may be misled into thinking that the mutual defense treaty is invalid or ineffective. Any doubt may encourage adventurism by possible aggressors.

The question is, are the MDT and the VFA valid and effective treaties under Philippine and US laws? The MDT, entered into in 1951 under the 1935 Constitution, was ratified by the Philippine Senate and by the US Senate as a treaty between the Philippines and the US. The VFA, entered into in 1998 under the 1987 Constitution, was ratified by the Philippine Senate. However, the VFA was not ratified by the US Senate since it was entered into by the US President merely as an executive agreement, which meant that the VFA did not have the status of US domestic law.

I dissented in the 2009 case of Nicolas v. Romulo, which upheld the constitutionality of the VFA, because the 1987 Constitution expressly requires that any agreement allowing the presence of foreign soldiers in the country must be “recognized as a treaty by the other contracting state.” I explained as follows: “In short, if the treaty is part of domestic law of the Philippines, it must also be part of domestic law of the other contracting State. Otherwise, the treaty cannot take effect in the Philippines.” Thus, I voted to “declare the VFA incomplete and ineffective and thus unenforceable.”

I cited in my dissent the then recent case of Medellin v. Texas, decided by the US Supreme Court the year before in 2008, which held that treaties “are not domestic law unless Congress has either enacted implementing statutes or the treaty itself conveys an intention that it be ‘self-executing’ and is ratified on these terms.” Medellin recognized that at least some 70-odd treaties of the United States would be affected by the ruling, including the defense treaties of the US with the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. I explained in my dissent that Medellin proffered a solution—adoption of an implementing legislation by the US Congress giving “wholesale effect” to such treaties as part of US domestic law.

That implementing legislation by the US Congress came on Dec. 31, 2018, with the signing into law by President Donald Trump of the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 (ARIA). The shroud of uncertainty unleashed by Medellin was lifted when the ARIA expressly adopted wholesale as US domestic law all the defense treaties that the US had entered into with its allies in Asia, including the Philippines. Section 202(d) of the ARIA expressly states: “The United States Government is committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America, done at Washington August 30, 1951, and all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act, including the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca), done at Manila April 28, 2014.”

When the ARIA states that the US “is committed” to the MDT, it means that the US is obligated under the MDT, making the MDT part of US domestic law. This “reassurance” applies to all security arrangements between the Philippines and the US from 1951 to 2014, making the VFA and even the Edca part of US domestic law. The US has also adopted the Edca as part of US domestic law even if in the Philippines, as ruled by the Supreme Court in the 2016 case of Saguisag v. Executive Secretary, the Edca is merely an executive agreement.

The MDT and VFA are indisputably valid, effective, and enforceable, as both are now part of Philippine domestic law and US domestic law.

https://opinion.inquirer.net/131573/the-mdt-and-vfa-as-deterrence

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): Surrendered CPP official thanks gov’t for assistance (By Marita Moaje)

Anne Margarette Taui (3rd from left), a high ranking member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), receives cash assistance under the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) from Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (3rd from right), on July 2, 2020 at the Baguio City Hall, (Photo grabbed from NTF ELCAC FB page)

After her surrender to the government forces, Anne Margarette Tauli, a high ranking member of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), thanked and accepted the government assistance, and assured that it will be given back to the people of their community in Besao, Mountain Province.

“I’m accepting this assistance since this is also from the people and will be given back to the people through our projects in Besao where we started before Covid, some projects for progress and peace in our town,"Tauli said.

During the ceremony on July 2 at the Baguio City Hall, Tauli described the process that she went through as “tough and grueling”, but expressed her appreciation to the people who were instrumental in her surrender.

“I’d like also to thank General (Hermogenes) Esperon and (Baguio City) Mayor (Benjamin) Magalong, Generals (Henry) Doyaoen and (R’win) Pagkalinawan for this process that I went through which was cordial and tough, of course grueling, but which ended up with this, by allowing me to go back to our town,” she said.

Magalong, who is also the Cordillera Regional Peace and Order Council Chairman, recognized Tauli for “making the right choice”.

He told Tauli that they were on the same boat but on the different sides of the spectrum, as she is on the left and Magalong, as a former law enforcer and now a local chief executive, was on the right.

He added that he understands the sentiments of those on the side against the government, but that there is another way to attain true and lasting peace.

“We understand your stand, but there will come a time that you really have to make a choice, that is, support the legitimate government and advocate for peace, because if there is anyone, anybody who really wants peace in this country, probably these are the soldiers and the policemen who are really fighting and sacrificing their lives,” Magalong said.

Tauli is excited to go back to her clan and community, who are all waiting for her return as well.

She said that she fully understands now the context of the government's whole-of-nation approach for just and lasting peace and that she is looking towards some progress so that there won’t be any need for a large military solution to the problem.

Tauli expressed her acceptance of the program and work towards peace and progress, amid the aggravating effect of the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) to the situation of the people.

Magalong said that as the government and the leftist movement have the same goal of attaining peace, he invited Tauli to help the government get in touch with the members of the movement “and finally convince them that they can make a choice, and that particular choice is probably to start with dialogue".

"The only way we will be able to come up with a negotiation, just like in any conflict areas is, people, need to talk to each other and that is what I am offering now to the members of the communist movement. Let us talk," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108646

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): BRP Jose Rizal highlights gov't resolve to protect PH: Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMISSIONING RITES. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (in barong), South Korean Ambassador to Manila Han Dong-man (in blue suit), and ranking Philippine military officials lead the handover, christening, and commissioning ceremony for the Philippines' first missile-frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal, at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales on Friday (July 10, 2020). Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the acquisition of the BRP Jose Rizal highlights the government's commitment to protecting the country's territory. (Photo courtesy of DND)

The acquisition of the Philippines' first missile-frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), highlights the government's commitment to protecting the country, the chief of the Philippine Navy (PN) said on Friday.

"This newest addition to our naval assets is a testament and the reflection of our government's commitment to protect and show our love for the country," Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said in his speech during the handover, christening, commissioning, and blessing of the ship at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales.

Bacordo added that the ship embodies the values exemplified by its namesake, national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

He said Jose Rizal is a fitting name for the PN's first newly acquired surface combatant.

"A great hero, (the BRP Jose Rizal) represents love of country, and a fiery dedication to protect its freedom and sovereignty," Bacordo said.

As Navy chief, Bacordo said he is "overjoyed" that the BRP Jose Rizal has finally joined the Navy fleet.

"Having a frigate in our fleet enhances our warfighting readiness," he said.

The BRP Jose Rizal arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales last May 23 after leaving the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea last May 18.

The ship's original commissioning date was June 19 to coincide with the hero's 159th birth anniversary but this was moved after one of its crew members tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on a routine check-up.

The ship is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

The BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the HHI shipyard on May 23, 2019.

Incidentally, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), the sister ship of BRP Jose Rizal, was launched in the same facility on November 8 last year.

The contract for the two ships is placed at PHP16 billion with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108629

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 11, 2020): PH Navy starts ‘new era of dev’t’ with BRP Rizal: PRRD (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

NEW ERA OF DEV’T. The commissioning of the BRP Jose Rizal, held at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales on Friday (July 10, 2020), ushers in a “new era of development and transformation” for the Philippine Navy, President Rodrigo Duterte said. The country’s first missile-frigate is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface war, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy)

The commissioning of the BRP Jose Rizal, the country’s first missile-frigate, marks the start of the Philippine Navy‘s “new era of development and transformation,” President Rodrigo R. Duterte said Friday.

"Today is the beginning of a new era of development and transformation for our Philippine Navy as we witness the commissioning of (the) Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Jose Rizal,” Duterte said in a taped video message flashed on the screen during the handover, christening, commissioning, and blessing of the frigate at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales.

The BRP Jose Rizal, a multi-role frigate built by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries, is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface war, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

The President expressed optimism that with the BRP Jose Rizal, the Philippine Navy would be more motivated to serve the country.

“I convey my deepest gratitude and appreciation to (the) Philippine Navy for always delivering the highest standard of service to our country and our people,” he said. “I am hopeful that you shall likewise be doubling the passion and commitment you have already manifested in ensuring the peace and progress truly deserved by our country.”

The procurement of the frigate was signed in 2016, along with another frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna that was launched in November 2019.

The BRP Jose Rizal was supposed to be commissioned on June 19 to coincide with the 159th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero.

The commissioning date, however, was moved after one of its crew members tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on a routine check-up.

PRRD in good health
Duterte, 75, was unable to attend the ship’s commissioning due to the pandemic.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque reassured the public that Duterte remains in the pink of health.

“Well, like any other 75-year-old, para naman pong nasa 88 (percent) po ang physical health ng ating Presidente (the condition of the President’s physical health is at 88 percent),” he said in an interview with dzBB on Friday when asked to rate Duterte’s health condition.

Duterte is currently in his hometown, Davao City, and remains busy fulfilling his job as the country’s highest elected official, Roque said.

“Doon po siya nag-o-opisina at may mga plano biyahe po pero ‘yun nga po, for security considerations, ako po ay pinagbawalan na sabihin kung ano ‘yung mga schedule na iyan (He’s doing his job while he’s there [in Davao City]. He has planned travels but for security considerations, I am prohibited from disclosing his scheduled activities),” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108655

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): Arrest warrant served vs. cadets in Dormitorio case: AFP (By Priam Nepomuceno)

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

The arrest warrant issued against the three cadets of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) implicated in the death of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio has been served, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Friday.

"The warrant of arrest issued by Presiding Judge Maria Ligaya V. Itliong-Rivera was served to the three accused PMA cadets by the commanding officer of the Military Police Battalion and the designated custodial officer of the AFP Custodial and Detention Center, Army Maj. Evangeline Nualda," AFP spokesperson, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a press statement.

Arevalo, who also heads the AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command, said the warrant would be returned to the court on Friday as the three cadets had been detained at the PMA and were transferred to the stockade of Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City last January 17.

"The accused cadets and three others face criminal prosecution for violating Article of War 97," he said.

Arevalo noted that the AFP commits “to secure, present and/or deliver the living body of any or all the accused cadets to the proper authorities when so ordered, including pertinent orders or directives from the General Court Martial and the Honorable Court.”

On Wednesday, the Baguio Regional Trial Court Branch 5 ordered the arrest of cadets Felix Lumbag Jr. and Shalimar Imperial Jr., who were charged with murder and hazing, and cadet Julius Carlo Tadena for hazing and less serious physical injuries.

The court did not recommend bail.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108603

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): New vehicles to boost Army's anti-terror, Covid-19 efforts (By Priam Nepomuceno)

NEW VEHICLES. Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay (center), takes a look at one of the new vehicles donated to the Philippine Army by the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association Inc. in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Friday (July 10, 2020). The new vehicles are expected to boost the Army's capability in curbing terror threats and battling the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo courtesy of the Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

The nine vehicles donated by the Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (AFPMBAI) to the Philippine Army (PA) will help the latter further carry out its anti-terrorism and coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) containment missions.

“On behalf of the Philippine Army, I thank the AFPMBAI headed by its President and CEO, Maj. Gen. (Robert) Arevalo, for this generosity. Your grant of nine units of vehicle(s), in addition to the 16 you have already donated last year, will not only boost the capability of the Army in the war against terrorism and the impact of the pandemic," Army commander, Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, said in his speech during the blessing and turnover of the vehicles at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Friday.

Army personnel, along with those of the Navy and Air Force, have been deployed to man various quarantine control points when the enhanced community quarantine was declared in Metro Manila and nearby provinces early this year.

Aside from this, PA medical personnel and their counterparts from the two services are helping care and monitor patients infected with Covid-19 in various government health facilities across the country.

Gapay added that these new vehicles would also uplift the well-being of PA personnel who are engaged in anti-terror operations and Covid-19 front-line duties.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108575

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): Manhunt underway vs. gunmen in MisOcc checkpoint attack (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa. (File photo)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa ordered a manhunt against communist rebels behind the attack at a quarantine checkpoint that wounded four police officers in Concepcion, Misamis Occidental on Thursday.

In a statement Friday, PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said Gamboa also instructed Police Regional Office 10 (Northern Mindanao) director, Brig. Gen. Rolando Anduyan to ensure that the four wounded personnel will be given immediate medical attention.

“As of now, they are recovering in two different hospitals in Concepcion and Ozamis City,” Banac said.

In a report from the PRO-10 submitted to Camp Crame, personnel of the Concepcion Municipal Police Station were manning an advance command post in Barangay Putongan when New People's Army (NPA) rebels belonging to the Guerilla Front "Sendong" opened fire at them shortly before 8 a.m. on Thursday.

Although wounded in the firefight, the four police officers on duty -- Cpl. Marvin Inton, S/Sgt. Larry Millan, Cpl. Leo Gumisad and Pat. Ritchel Tañola took defensive positions and held their ground, killing one of the attackers.

Members of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of Misamis Occidental Provincial Police Office and soldiers from the Philippine Army responded to the encounter site to provide reinforcement and blocking forces against the rebels.

Crime scene investigators continue to gather more pieces of evidence to establish the identity of the NPA rebel who died in the encounter.

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

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108549

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): Air Force to get 2 more C-130 planes (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Philippine Air Force C-130 plane. (File photo)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will acquire two more Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo aircraft to add to its existing fleet of five used to transport medical supplies and personnel tasked to contain the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

"Based on our current status reports, one of the C-130s is expected to arrive this month (July) while the other one will arrive before the end of the year. Both have no specific (arrival) dates yet,"Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday.

The cost of acquisition for the two C-130s is PHP2.5 billion.

"Cost is PHP2.5 billion. They (C-130s were) co-financed by the Philippines (who contributed PHP1.6 billion) and the US through FMF (Foreign Military Financing) program worth (PHP900 million)," Andolong added.

The US FMF program provides grants and loans for the acquisition of US defense equipment, services, and training.
The C-130 is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft designed and built originally by Lockheed, now known as Lockheed Martin.

Capable of using unprepared runways for takeoffs and landings, the C-130 was originally designed as a troop, medical evacuation, and cargo transport aircraft.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108542

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 10, 2020): Vietnam eyes stronger naval cooperation with PH (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COURTESY CALL. Vietnamese Ambassador to Manila Hoang Huy Chung (left) and Philippine Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo (right) pose for a photo opportunity during a courtesy call at the Navy headquarters in Manila on Thursday (July 9, 2020). During their meeting, Chung expressed Hanoi's willingness to beef up maritime security cooperation with Manila. (Photo courtesy of the Naval Public Affairs Office)

Vietnam has expressed its willingness to strengthen its naval cooperation with the Philippines.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Manila Hoang Huy Chung made this assurance in a courtesy call on Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo at the Navy headquarters in Manila on Thursday.

"The Vietnam Ambassador also expressed the willingness of Vietnam to strengthen its coordination with the Philippines, particularly in the areas of maritime security concerns and to enhance both countries’ naval cooperation," PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a statement Friday.

Other highlights of the meeting include future engagements of the PN and the Vietnam People’s Navy which include the latter’s participation in the upcoming Philippine-hosted Western Pacific Naval Symposium and other international naval activities where both Navies will participate.

Chung held various high-ranking positions in Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs before being appointed to his present post.

"This courtesy call is yet another manifestation of the PN’s unfaltering commitment in promoting stability, protection, and cooperation in the region, the Philippine Navy is firmly dedicated to continuing and further enhancing its commitment to strengthening ties and friendship with other regional Navies," Roxas added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1108537

Tagalog News: Mga dating rebelde sa Agusan del Sur, tumanggap ng ayuda mula sa gobyerno

Army Exec: NPA’s recruitment of minors is a terroristic act

Army, Reds clash in Tapaz; 16-year-old lad hurt

Kalinaw News: ASG members surrender to soldiers for another chance at life

Kalinaw News: Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay Program para sa mga MATAKA

Kalinaw News: CPP-NPA-NDF, guilty for violating International Humanitarian Law and Anti-Terorrism Law

CPP/NPA-Panay: NPA, Binigwasan ang Kriminal at Teroristang AFP at PNP ng Rehimeng Duterte

CPP/NDF-NPA: We will remember Ka Lean: Youth Inspiration, Hero and Martyr — Concha Araneta

CPP/Ang Ngurob san Mt. Cansermon

NDF/Sison: Tyrant Duterte is culpable for state terrorism and is compelling the people to wage armed revolution

NPA terrorists attack police station, 4 wounded

The MDT and VFA as deterrence

Surrendered CPP official thanks gov’t for assistance

BRP Jose Rizal highlights gov't resolve to protect PH: Navy

PH Navy starts ‘new era of dev’t’ with BRP Rizal: PRRD

Arrest warrant served vs. cadets in Dormitorio case: AFP

New vehicles to boost Army's anti-terror, Covid-19 efforts

Manhunt underway vs. gunmen in MisOcc checkpoint attack

Air Force to get 2 more C-130 planes

Vietnam eyes stronger naval cooperation with PH