Sunday, December 21, 2014

Former MNLFs in Basilan get PAMANA livelihood support from gov’t

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 22): Former MNLFs in Basilan get PAMANA livelihood support from gov’t

Former combatants of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Basilan received livelihood assistance from the government through the Payapa at Masaganang PamayaNan (PAMANA) program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Beneficiaries from selected MNLF communities in Basilan initially got farm/agricultural implements, post-harvest facilities, rubber and coconut seedlings, some livestock, and motorized “banca” (boat) as part of the PAMANA-MNLF project during the launching and ceremonial turnover at DAF-ARMM breeding station in Lamitan City, Basilan recently.

Autonomous RREgion in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv Hataman and Basilan Governor Jum Akbar led the project launching and ceremonial turnover of PAMANA-MNLF phase II project. This was still part of the P600 million allotted for 2011-2013 PAMANA programs for MNLF communities, according to ARMM’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

“Of the total P470 million worth of PAMANA projects, we are already on 50 percent of our disbursements and the biggest chunk of this is implemented in Sulu,” Hataman revealed, adding “about half of those communities originally listed in the PAMANA projects submitted for the 2013 budgeting were set aside during validation period, as more and more MNLF communities were given utmost priority.”

Hataman said the team validating the communities was very careful, as some of these were difficult to be identified, as “we are confused whether the community is still an MNLF community or those already of Abu Sayyafs. Thus, there was a need to do convergence with the military and other authorities to validate the target areas.”

“P431 million of the P470 million will fund community projects and P41 million is intended for operational expenses, training, and salary if we need personnel. And we need to complete the disbursements by the end of December this year,” Hataman added.

He also apologized to the former MNLF combatants for the delay in the implementation and release of farm implements and livelihood materials, as he cited bureaucratic and government procedures (which are necessary) as the reasons for the delay.

Meanwhile, Basilan Army Chief Brigade Commander Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista, who chairs the PAMANA Coordinating Team said that government has invested much resources already for peace in Basilan and hopes that funds has been translated into impact projects that would redound to the benefit of the communities.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, former MNLF commander Idris S. Sali said that they have been longing for this project since the time of former Basilan Governor Wahab Akbar when he was still alive.

“This project is the answer to our plea for government’s help to fulfill our dreams that we all live in peace and development,” he said.

Leaders of MNLF communities from barangays Guinanta, Danapa, Kuhun Lennuh, Upper Kuhun Lennuh, Magcawa, Kinukutan, Kailih, Bucalao, and Bohe Piang in Al-barka; Amaloy and Bohe Pahu in Ungkaya Pukan; Baungis, Matikang, Calayan, and Canibungan in Lantawan; Bubuan, Balanting, Lanawan and Babag in Tabuanlasa; Tausan, Lubukan, Mananggal, Baluk-Baluk, Dasalan and Sangbay Small in Hadji Muhtamad; Puno Mahadje and Upper Mahayahay in Maluso; Parangbasak in Lamitan; Candiid in Moh. Ajul; Matias (Tumajubong) and Ettub-Ettub in Sumisip; Upper Sinangkapan and Semut in Akbar; and Bohe Baca in Tipo-Tipo received the projects for and on behalf of the community.

PAMANA is the government’s peace and development framework to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction and development in conflict affected areas (CAAs) that complement the government's peace negotiation efforts. It aims to: (a) reduce poverty and vulnerability in conflict-affected areas; (b) improve governance; and (c) empower communities and strengthen their capacity to address issues of conflict and peace.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1421419005887/former-mnlfs-in-basilan-get-pamana-livelihood-support-from-gov-t

Tabak Division joins GMA’s “Plastic ni Juan” project

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 22): Tabak Division joins GMA’s “Plastic ni Juan” project 

As a show of concern for the environment, the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division through its 1st Civil Military Operations (CMO) battalion officially supported the eco-project now being pursued by the Global Media Arts (GMA) network entitled “Plastic ni Juan: Sa Plastic at Basura may Dalang Pag-asa.”

The project, which was recently launched here, coincided with the CMO’s Christmas party attended by the different stakeholders comprising the media, local government units (LGUs), civil society and people’s organizations.

In his message, Lt. Col. Aude Monggao, 1CMO battalion commander said, “the battalion spearheads the launching of said project of the GMA Kapuso Foundation to show Tabak’s utmost care for the environment.”

“Plastic ni Juan” project raises public awareness on the ecology and some environmentally friendly ways to reuse, reduce, and recycle plastics and convert these into chairs and tables to be donated to various qualified public schools throughout the Philippines.

“Gusto naming ipakita sa mga tao na ang 1st Infantry (Tabaj) Division ay nagmamahal sa ating kapaligiran. At ang mga sundalo ng 1CMO battalion  ay maglilibot sa loob ng headquarters at mamumulot ng mga empty plastic bottles dahil  ito ay ma-recycle bilang isang lamesa at upuan at ma-idonate  sa mga paaralan na nasa malalayong barangay upang magagamit sa mga batang mag-aaral,” Monggao elucidated.

(We would like to show to the people that 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division loves the environment. The troopers from the 1CMO battalion will be going around the headquarters to collect empty plastic bottles because these can be made into tables and chairs to be donated to schools in far-flung barangays for the schoolchildren’s use.)

“The troopers will make an extra effort to collect and consolidate empty plastic bottles. Once the garbage receptacle will be filled with plastic bottles, it will be turned-over immediately by no less than the Tabak commander BGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr. to GMA Kapuso Foundation in Manila,” Monggao added.

In a separate development, Monggao said a bamboo planting was also conducted in the different line units of the first Infantry division in support of the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government.

The activity, Monggao said, was part of the lined up activities for the AFP’s 78th anniversary last Dec. 18.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371418967729/tabak-division-joins-gma-s-plastic-ni-juan-project-

Soldier kills comrade, civilian in Cotabato City

From InterAksyon (Dec 22): Soldier kills comrade, civilian in Cotabato City

An Army private first classman shot dead an Army staff sergeant and a civilian on Saturday at the PC Hill in Cotabato City.

The fatalities were identified as Staff Sergeant Eduardo Mutya, based at the 6th CMO on PC Hill, and an Army applicant Barack Estina, said Station 1 Commander Senior Inspector Efren Salazar.

Police reports said the two victims and the suspect Private First Class Ian Murillo, also of the 6th CMO, were drinking alcohol when a past incident was recalled resulting in the bloody shooting.

Murillo immediately surrendered to his commanding officer and is detained at the Army jail, said 6th Infantry Division public information officer chief, Captain Joan Petinglay, who denied that the three were drinking alcohol at the time of the shooting.

An Armalite rifle was used in the shooting.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/101629/soldier-kills-comrade-civilian-in-cotabato-city

Abu Sayyaf kidnap victim survived 6-month ordeal by praying, says paper

From the Malaysia Insider (Dec 21): Abu Sayyaf kidnap victim survived 6-month ordeal by praying, says paper

Fish-farm operator Chan Sai Chuin, who was abducted from Sabah's east coast in June before being freed nearly two weeks ago said he survived his ordeal by praying, The Sunday Star reported today.

Chained to a hut in the jungles of Jolo in the southern Philippines for more than half of his six-month captivity by his abductors Abu Sayyaf, the 32-year-old said he was moved deeper into the jungles amid sounds of exploding bombs and gunfire.

“I think we moved at least five times after landing in Jolo... I could only pray,” he was quoted as saying.

Chan and a Filipino worker identified only as Maslan, were abducted by two armed men at 12.40am from the fish farm they operated in Kampung Air Sapang on June 16.
However, Chan said his kidnappers did not mistreat him. They shared the same food, namely rice, potatoes and fish. He was also given medicine when he was ill.

The first food he ate upon his return were fruits and vegetables, which he "missed a lot".

His ordeal has left him 20kg lighter which he is taking positively.

“I hope to keep in shape at my current 70kg. I feel healthier now,” he was quoted as saying.

Relating his experience, Chan said he was not chained up for the first two months of his abduction, but was watched by at least 10 gunmen.

He was later chained by the ankle in a hut for the rest of his almost six-month captivity, the English daily said.

“It was quite boring as one hour felt like a year. I would sometimes make small talk with my captors who identified themselves as James Bond and Tom Cruise, among others,” he was quoted as saying.

He said the abductors spoke Malay but he found it hard to understand them at times.

He was also unaware of the identities of his captors as there were many leaders and sub leaders.

He said the thought of escaping his abductors never materialised as he was not familiar with the surrounding areas and he had no idea where he was.

“Apart from being surrounded by sea and jungles and not knowing where I was, I also did not have a map nor could I speak their language. It wouldn’t help if I tried to escape anyway,” he was quoted as saying, adding that since his release, he has gone to Johor to meet up with his parents and other relatives.

Despite his ordeal, Chan is determined to continue with his fish farm business.

“I am not afraid to go back to Kunak but it is better that we stay on the mainland (Kunak) and go daily to our fish farm,” he was quoted as saying, adding that there were already security forces keeping watch at the farm after his abduction.

Claims have surfaced from Philippines military intelligence and Jolo sources that about 10 million pesos or RM780,000 in ransom was paid to his abductors to secure his release, but Chan said he was told there was none.

He was unaware of his impending release until three men showed up in his hut on December 9, claiming to be policemen from Sabah, and asked him to follow them.

“I was sitting alone in a hut with my leg chained and was approached by the men just as I was about to fall asleep late at night.

“None of the abductors were around and these men had a key to unlock the chain, so I just followed them without asking much,” he was quoted as saying.

They arrived at the Sandakan jetty at 7am on December 10.

“It was then I knew I was free. I saw my wife there and ran to her.”

He praised his wife, Chin Pek Nyuen, who worked to secure his release.

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/abu-sayyaf-kidnap-victim-survived-6-month-ordeal-by-praying-says-paper

Slain BIFF man tagged in soldiers’ death

From Tempo (Dec 20): Slain BIFF man tagged in soldiers’ death

Military authorities confirmed that the slain leader of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) who was killed in an encounter with government forces in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, was the one responsible in the killing of two soldiers inside the Maguindanao provincial health hospital last October.

Lt. Col. Romeo Bautista, 45th Infantry Battalion commander, said the slain BIFF leader was identified as Maguid Abdul alias “Commander Kamote” who was killed after their group engaged the combined forces of Army soldiers and militiamen in Barangay Labu-Labu in Shariff Aguak town last Wednesday.

He said at least 10 BIFF rebels tried to attack the post of Barangay Peace Action Team (BPAT) but were repulsed by militiamen and soldiers who were deployed in the area.
Troops launched pursuit operations against the rebels who withdrew toward Barangay Lambuay, Datu Hofer.

No casualty was reported on the government side.

Authorities said Abdul led the attack on the provincial hospital last October 9 which resulted in the killing of two Army soldiers.

http://www.tempo.com.ph/2014/12/slain-biff-man-tagged-in-soldiers-death/

MILF: Human Resource Mapping Completed

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 21): Human Resource Mapping Completed



The initial database for Bangsamoro professionals was finished and turned over to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission on Thursday December 18.  

Mr. Shinichi Masuda, head of the JICA Cotabato Project Office, handed over the project documents to BTC commissioners Timway Melanio Ulama and Froilyn Mendoza.

Undertaken over a seven-month period this year, the registration of Bangsamoro professionals was made through the Human Resource Development (HRD) component of the CCDP-B or “Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro”, a mutual endeavor of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the BTC.

The “mapping“ was designed to identify the available potential human resources of the Bangsamoro and equip them with essential knowledge.

A total of 5152 registered with Human Resource Mapping Implementation Unit (HRMIU) either online or manual submission. The said unit created a webpage for those who registered using the internet.

The number of those who registered was way below expectations but “it’s a very good start in further determining the actual strength of Bangsamoro professionals,” said Engr. Muhajirin Ali of the BTC Socio-Economic Unit which supervised the project.
The database will be used in policy formulation and planning activities.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1416-human-resource-mapping-completed

MILF: Symposium on BBL held in island Municipality of Pangutaran, Sulu

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 21): Symposium on BBL held in island Municipality of Pangutaran, Sulu



The island municipality of Pangutaran, Sulu sponsored a symposium on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) last December 13, 2014 attended by members of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) as resource speakers.

The attendance of Engr. Muhajirin Ali, Atty. Haron Meling, Chief Executive Assistant to the Office of BTC Chairman Mohagher Iqbal was requested and arranged by Hajji Said Akkoh, Chairman of MILF Political Committee in the province. Mr. Judy Jaafar, member of the BTC Communication Group, who hails from Sulu was also part of the team.

The delegation was escorted by a platoon of members of Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) led by Base Commander Musackar Abbi of the 117th Base Command.

The symposium was facilitated by the local government unit (LGUs) of Pangutaran.

The BTC delegation took them about four (4) hours from Port of Jolo before reaching the island of Pangutaran.

In an informal gathering prior to the start of the activity the next day, Engr. Ali briefly gave updates on the GPH-MILF Peace Process and the BBL to thoroughly apprise the local residents and MILF officials and members in the locality.

The following day, the symposium took place at the Social Hall of Pangutaran National High School. It was attended by officials and employees of the LGU, public school teachers, Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), religious sectors and Pangutaran community residents.

Atty. Meling started his lecture by citing how BBL came about, while Engr. Ali discussed the provisions of the proposed law.

The questions raised by Pangutaran residents were:

1. Where is the seat of the Bangsamoro Government?
2. What are the qualifications of members of Bangsamoro Police Force?
3. What will happen to BIAF combatants who were not able to graduate from college?
4. Who will lead the Bangsamoro Transition Authority?
5. Is the MILF Municipal Political Chairman automatically becomes the mayor of a municipality once the BTC is in place?
6. Are benefits can be given to those who were victim of human rights violations?
7. What will the MILF do if the BBL is not passed by congress?

On the question whether “benefits can be given to human rights victims”?, Engr. Ali said that, “There is a mechanism on Normalization process that will address human rights violations during the conflict”.

“Under the GPH-MILF peace process there is what we call ‘Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission’ or TJRC chaired by Switzerland and there are members from MILF and GPH. The commission among others is tasked to address human rights violations”, Engr. Ali further said.

Chairman Akkoh expressed his sincerest thanks to BTC for sending the speakers to make them fully aware of the contents of the proposed law and then delivered his closing message.

MILF: CAPSI holds another forum on BBL

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 21): CAPSI holds another forum on BBL



The Concerned Alliance for Professionals and Students (CAPSI) Inc. held another forum for professionals, students and members of the academe on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on December 17, 2014 at Barangay San Rafael, Isabela City, Basilan. 
  
The resource speakers were members of the Joint Normalization Committee (JNC) namely; Atty. Raisa Jajurie, Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo, Toks Ibrahim and Committee Chairman Mr. Mohamad Nasif, Al Haj. Mr. Nasif introduced his colleagues and thanked Mr. Harrisul Samanul, CAPSI President and program host for inviting them. He said "We came here to visit this Island Moro community and to stress the purpose of our struggle that is how to uplift the economic condition of the Moro people”. 

Toks Ibrahim from the Office of the Chief of Staff of the BIAF-MILF in his short message said, "Mag establish tayo ng governo upang matutulungan ang mga taong naaapi" (Let us establish our own government to help those who are oppressed or those economically deprived).

Atty. Jajurie in her introductory message warned the Bangsamoro communitites, "Dapat abangan natin bawat hakbang at itong mga public hearing kasi duong naka angla sa BBL kung anu ang inasamasam natin" (Let us be careful in our decisions as what we dreamed of is contained in the BBL)”.

Atty. Sinarimbo, explained that there are two kinds of agreements 1.) A Ceasefire Agreement that can be enforced by the president without passing through the congress and (2) Agreements like the Framework Agreement or the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro that resulted to the crafting of the BBL. The proposed law must be transmitted by the Office of the President (Executive Department) to Congress (Legislative Branch) for enactment into law and when one or groups question its legality, the Supreme Court (Judiciary) decides whether it is constitutional or not.

The program lasted for half day but was described by Abou Muhammad Asmawil, MLGOO of Ungkaya Pukan town as fruitful as it enhanced their knowledge on the provisions of the proposed law. The delegation from the JNC left the venue after lunch as they were invited by Basilan Governor Jum Akbar.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1414-capsi-holds-another-forum-on-bbl

MILF: MILF political party gears for 2016 polls

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 20): MILF political party gears for 2016 polls



 
Stakeholders on Thursday welcomed the start of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front's (MILF) conversion from a revolutionary group to a political organization, aiming to pit candidates for local positions during the 2016 elections.

The MILF announced on Wednesday that it has filed an application for the United Bangsamoro Justice Party's (UBJP) accreditation from the Commission on Elections so the group can field candidates for local positions and elective posts in the Bangsamoro government.

“This is a very positive indication that the MILF will now pursue its struggle for peace and development in Mindanao’s predominantly Muslim areas through peaceful political initiatives. This is a very positive development, a pro-people, pro-peace initiative and worthy of our support,” said Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Hataman, who belongs to the administration’s ruling Liberal Party, even volunteered to help the MILF disseminate to the public the importance of its political venture to the propagation of "culture of peace" among local communities and in the promotion of socio-economic stability in the proposed Bangsamoro core territory.

The ARMM’s scattered provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, will become the main bastions of the Bangsamoro if the enabling measure for its creation, the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law, passes Congress and enacted into law and ratified via a plebiscite in 2015.

The MILF central leadership is expecting thousands of Moro volunteers to pledge support and allegiance to the UBJP on December 23 in Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

Party secretary-general Sammy Al-Mansour told the Mindanao Cross that the participants to the first ever gathering of applicants to UBJP's "volunteer bloc" will come from provinces and towns included in the proposed territory of the Bangsamoro political entity.

“These volunteers planning to join the UBJP will play big, very important roles in the forthcoming 2016 elections in the Bangsamoro homeland,” Al-Mansour said.

The applicants to UBJP membership will converge in Camp Darapanan, the MILF’s main bastion, located in northwest of Sultan Kudarat.

“This is part of our preparations for the political empowerment of the Moro people that are major stakeholders to the on-going peace initiatives of the MILF and government,” Mansour said.

Peace activist and Mindanao autonomy expert Fr. Eliseo Mercado, Jr., director of the Institute for Autonomy and Governance  (IAG) in Cotabato City, said politics, governance and peace dialogues are the best means of addressing socio-economic, political and social issues besetting underdeveloped and troubled areas.

The IAG, a partner of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung of Germany, is engaged in cross-section dialogues and educational programs meant to educate Mindanao’s culturally-pluralistic communities and their leaders on the importance of interfaith and political cooperation to hasten the attainment of peace and sustainable development in the country’s troubled south.

For Mercado, the use of guns and violence as a means of seeking redress are not just outmoded and primitive, but counter-productive as well.

Even the governor of Maguindanao, Esmael Mangudadatu, now in his second term as chief executive of the province, said his administration is in favor of the MILF’s fusion into the political mainstream via its newly-formed UBJP.

“The political arena, under Mindanao and Philippine settings, is the best venue where all sectors can wage a peaceful and democratic struggle for the protection and welfare of the Bangsamoro people,” Mangudadatu said in a text message.

The military has assured to help provide security to the participants to the first ever UBJP conclave in Darapanan on December 23.

Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said their security efforts will be facilitated under the guidance of the joint government-MILF ceasefire coordinating committee.

“These are peaceful and very democratic activities that run parallel with the peace efforts of His Excellency, President Benigno Aquino III,” said Pangilinan, who was deputy commander for the peace process of the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City prior to his assumption as 6th ID commander last May 2014.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1413-milf-political-party-gears-for-2016-polls

CPP/NDF-RCTU: Pahayag ng Pakikiisa sa Pagdiriwang ng ika-46 Anibersaryo ng Pagkakatatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas

NDF/RCTU propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 21): Pahayag ng Pakikiisa sa Pagdiriwang ng ika-46 Anibersaryo ng Pagkakatatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (Statement of Solidarity with the Celebration of the 46th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Communist Party of the Philippines)

Logo.rctu
Fortunato Magtanggol
Spokesperson
RCTU Southern Tagalog Chapter
 
 Ang Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions-Southern Tagalog (RCTU-ST), alyadong organisasyon ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), ay kaisa ng malawak na masang anakpawis sa pagdiriwang para sa ika-46 taong anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas-Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo (PKP-MLM)!

Ang pagkakatatag ng PKP noong Disyembre 26, 1968 ay kapanganakan ng panibagong pag-asa para sa uring manggagawang Pilipino—iniluwal nito ang taliba ng rebolusyon na magsusulong ng pagpapalaya sa mga aping uri sa pamamagitan ng makatarungang digma.
Ipinakilala at inilinaw ng PKP ang makatotohanang solusyon sa daantaong kahirapang ibinunga ng panghihimasok at direktang pagsakop ng mga imperyalistang dayuhan, mula sa mga kastila, hanggang sa pagpasok ng panibagong superpower na imperyalistang Estados Unidos. Gamit ang teoryang Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo, naitakda ang wastong linyang pampulitika at organisasyon ng Partido na siyang magwawakas sa kasalukuyang malapyudal at malakolonyal na katangian ng lipunang Pilipino.

Ipinagbubunyi ng hanay ng mga rebolusyonaryong manggagawa sa Timog Katagalugan ang 46 na taong pamumuno ng natatanging proletaryadong partido, ang PKP, sa pinakamatagal na armadong rebolusyon sa kasaysayan ng buong daigdig, sa kabila ng kaliwa’t kanang kontra-rebolusyonaryong dahas at propaganda ng mga imperyalista at mga lokal na naghaharing uri.

Ang PKP ang inspirasyon ng mga rebolusyonaryong manggagawa sa ilalim ng RCTU-ST, sa pagsusulong ng pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon, sa pagtataguyod sa interes ng uring manggagawa at lahat ng aping uri, sa paglalantad sa mga anti-mamamayan at anti-manggagawang batas, sa pagsusuri sa mga pampulitika at pang-ekonomiyang usapin, at sa matatag na paglaban sa lahat ng atake ng imperyalistang US at reaksyunaryong gubyerno.

Nananatiling matatag ang PKP hanggang sa kasalukuyan, at tuloy-tuloy na lumalawak at lumalakas, kasabay ng pag-igting ng krisis sa pulitika at ekonomiya ng rehimeng US-Aquino II. Habang nailalantad ang kabulukan ng reaksyunaryong gubyernong walang ibang ginawa kundi magpatupad ng mga neoliberal na polisiya—tulad ng laganap na pagkitil sa hanapbuhay ng mga manggagawa at mamamayan—kapalit ng papalaking tubo sa mga kapitalista; pagkakait sa mga batayang serbisyo sa edukasyon, kalusugan, at pabahay; lantarang pagtalikod sa pananagutan tuwing mayroong mga kalamidad sa bansa; at pagnanakaw ng bilyon-bilyong piso mula sa kaban ng bayan; lalupang nagiging malinaw sa sambayanan na wala na silang maaasahan mula kay Aquino, at sa bulok na reaksyunaryong gubyerno nito.

Pinakamataas na pagpupugay ang ibinibigay ng mga manggagawa sa lahat ng martir ng rebolusyong Pilipino, mga kadre at kasapi ng Partido na nagbuhos ng kanilang dugo at pawis para sa pagsusulong ng demokratikong rebolusyong bayan! Hindi matatawaran ang iniambag nina Ka Verleen “Bugoy” Trinidad, Diosdado “Ka Fort” Fortuna, at lahat ng mga martir mula sa uring manggagawa at iba pang uri’t sektor na buong pusong niyakap ang mga prinsipyo at patakaran ng Partido, iniwan ang kanilang mga komportableng buhay, at sinuong ang masalimuot ngunit makabuluhang landas ng paglilingkod sa sambayanan.

Sa pag-igting ng krisis ng pandaigdigang sistemang kapitalista, at ibayong pagdilim ng hinaharap ng rehimeng US-Aquino II sa mga susunod na taon, tiyak na mas marami pang manggagawa, magsasaka, at mamamayan ang yayakap sa Marxismo-Leninismo-Maoismo bilang makauring ideolohiya na nagsisilbi para sa interes ng uring manggagawa at lahat ng aping mamamayan. Sila ay maghuhubog ng kanilang mga sarili bilang mga panibagong kadreng mangunguna sa pagsusulong ng pakikibaka ng mas malawak na masang handa at naglalayong baguhin ang isang bulok na sistema tungo sa isang sistemang panlipunang walang pagsasamantala.

Hindi makakamit ng PKP ang lahat ng tagumpay na tinamo at tatamuhin nito kung wala ang mainit at mahigpit na pagsuporta at pakikiisa ng masang anakpawis sa mga programa at layunin ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas. Kung kaya, kasabay nating ipinagdiriwang ang walang sawang suporta at pakikiisa ng malawak na masa sa mga rebolusyonaryong adhikain ng ating pinakamamahal na partido!

Sa pagkakaisa ng PKP at mamamayan, mailalatag ang mga esensyal na batayan para sa pag-unlad ng buong sambayanan—ang industriyalisasyon sa pambansang antas, pagpapatupad ng tunay na reporma sa lupa, ang pagtataguyod ng produksyong magsisilbi sa pangangailangan ng mamamayan at hindi ng iilan, ang pagpapatakbo sa gubyerno bilang gubyerno ng mamamayan, at ang pagwawakas sa paghahari ng mga dayuhang kapitalista, mga lokal na papet nila, at mga panginoong maylupa sa bansa.
Mabuhay ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas!

 Manggagawa, pamunuan ang pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon! Sumapi sa New People’s Army!

 Ubos-kayang isulong ang digmang bayan tungo sa pagkapatas!

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141221_pahayag-ng-pakikiisa-sa-pagdiriwang-ng-ika-46-anibersaryo-ng-pagkakatatag-ng-partido-komunista-ng-pilipinas

CPP/NDF: Sa dili madugay buhian na ang tanang bihag sa gubat sa NPA sa Mindanao

NDF propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 20): Sa dili madugay buhian na ang tanang bihag sa gubat sa NPA sa Mindanao (We will soon release all prisoners of war in Mindanao)

69_ko
Ka Oris
Spokesperson
NDFP Mindanao Chapter

Ang National Democratic Front-Mindanao nagpahayag sa iyang kaakohan nga sa dili madugay buhian na ang tanang bihag sa gubat (Prisoners of War o POW) sa Mindanao. Ang mga bihag sa gubat gilangkoban sa tulo (3) ka pulis ug usa (1) ka CAFGU sa Northeastern Mindanao Region gikan sa Malimono ug Alegria sa Surigao del Norte ug sa Bayugan; duha (2) ka membro sa Philippine Army sa 8th IB ug usa ka Cafgu sa 26th IB sa Northcentral Mindanao Region; ug duha (2) ka membro sa Phil. Army sa Southern Mindanao Region.

Ang maong mga POW buhian sa tagsa-tagsa nila ka mga Custodial Units sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan sa tulo ka rehiyon. Ang papeles sa pagbuhi kanila gipirmahan sa National Executive Council National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

Kining tanang mga POW pagabuhian nga wala nay gihimong pagtaral kanila sa People’s Court sa Demokratikong Gobyerno sa Katawhan tungod sa makitawhanong konsiderasyon ug alang sa among pagtimbaya sa katawhan sa ilang malinawong pagsaulog sa panahon sa Pasko.

Subli namong ipasibaw ang among kamatinud-anon sa pagkab-ot sa tinuod nga kalinaw nga nagsubay sa hustisya ug sa kaseryoso sa pakighinabi sa kalinaw ngadto sa Gobyerno sa Pilipinas nga girepresentahan karon ni Benigno Aquino III pinaagi sa pagbuhi sa maong mga bihag sa gubat nga walay bisan unsamang kondisyon.

Dugang niini, pagabuhian usab ang 8 ka bihag sa gubat isip kabahin sa among mabulokong pagsaulog sa ika-46 nga anibersaryo sa pagkatukod-balik sa Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas karon umaabot nga Disyembre 26, 2014 ug sa mga kadaugan sa pag-abante nga nakab-ot niini sa hustong pagpangulo sa kapin 4 ka dekada sa gubat sa katawhan.

Among gipasalig sa mga pamilya sa maong mga POW ug sa publiko nga anaa sila sa maayong kahimtang sa panglawas ug natubag ang ilang mga batakang panginahanglan. Girespeto usab ang ilang mga katungod isip mga bihag sa gubat subay sa International Humanitarian Law ug sa Protocols of War.

Sa higayon nga anaa sa mga kamot sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan ang maong mga POW, wala sila nagpakita og mga kalihukan nga mabutang sa peligro ang ilang kinabuhi ug mikooperar sila sa mga custodial unit sa BHB sa pagtratar kanila isip mga bihag sa gubat.

Among giawhag ang gobyerno sa Pilipinas nga hugot ug matinud-anong ipatuman ang gideklara niining Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) ug Suspension of Police Operations (SOPO) gikan Disyembre 18, 2014 hangtod Enero 19, 2015 aron maghatag og dalan sa luwas nga pagbuhi sa maong mga POW sa dili madugay nga panahon.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141220_sa-dili-madugay-buhian-na-ang-tanang-bihag-sa-gubat-sa-npa-sa-mindanao

CPP/NDF-RCTU: Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Aquino! Itayo ang Gobyernong Bayan!

NDF/RCTU propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 19): Ibagsak ang rehimeng US-Aquino! Itayo ang Gobyernong Bayan! (Overthrow the US-Aquino regime! Establish a People's Government!)

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Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions
 
 
[Video: Revolutionary workers hold rally, hail CPP’s 46th anniversary
 
Hundreds of workers led by the Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions, together with other underground revolutionary organizations under the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, held a lightning rally in downtown Manila this morning to mark the 46th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

Burning a US flag containing the pictures of US Pres. Barack Obama and Pres. Benigno Simeon Aquino III, the workers said 2014 marked a year of advances for the CPP because of the worsening socio-economic conditions of the workers and people resulting from the semi-colonial and semi-feudal system in the country and the global economic crisis.

“We are celebrating the 46th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines. For almost 50 years now, the CPP has led the Filipino workers and people in achieving great victories in advancing the people’s war for national freedom, democracy and socialism,” Juan de Mayo, RCTU spokesperson, said.

The RCTU said that under the leadership of the CPP, the Philippine revolution continues to advance and is now at a level of strength that has never been reached by previous revolutionary movements in the country.

“The people’s war continues to gain strength. Because of the ever-worsening conditions in the country, more workers and oppressed masses are taking the path of revolutionary struggle, especially the armed struggle being waged by the New People’s Army,” de Mayo said.

He also said that with the CPP’s leadership, under the guidance of the ideology of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, revolutionary workers and people are full of hope, confident of the Philippine revolution’s victory.

As it celebrates the CPP’s anniversary, the RCTU called on the Filipino workers and people to join the people’s war and intensify the struggle to overthrow the US-Aquino regime and in the process strengthen the struggle to establish a people’s democratic government.

“We call on Filipino workers and people to take part in the struggle to overthrow the US-Aquino regime, a struggle which will strengthen the people’s war against the bankrupt ruling system. Let us take part in the armed struggle, through which we can establish a People’s Democratic Government that is led by workers and peasants through their Party, the CPP,” de Mayo said.

RCTU on wordpress.com:
http://rctundfp.wordpress.com/2014/12...

http://rctundfp.wordpress.com/2014/12...

RCTU on philippinerevolution.net:http://philippinerevolution.net/state...

http://philippinerevolution.net/state...
 
Mabuhay ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas! Kami ay mga rebolusyonaryong manggagawa at mamamayan sa ilalim ng National Democratic Front of the Philippines. Ipinagdiriwang namin ang mga dakilang tagumpay ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas sa apatnapu’t anim na taong pamumuno nito sa rebolusyong Pilipino.

Malagim ang kinabukasan ng mga manggagawa at sambayanan sa ilalim ng rehimen ni Noynoy Aquino! Kontra-manggagawa at kontra-maralita si Noynoy! Pinapatindi niya ang kahirapan at kagutuman natin. Binubundat niya sa labis-labis na tubo ang amo niyang imperyalistang Kano at mga gaya niyang malaking haciendero’t kapitalista!

Tulad ng lahat ng nagdaang pangulo, si Noynoy ay tuta ng kano! Kinakatawan niya ang paghahari-harian ng iilang hacienderot’t kapitalista! Siya ang tagapagtaguyod sa naagnas nang malakolonyal at malapyudal na lipunan! Lipunang bumubusabos at nagsasamantala sa ating mga manggagawa at buong sambayanan! Si Aquino, at ang lipunang tinataguyod niya, ay dapat nang magwakas! Dapat nang ibagsak!















Itinatayo ang demokratikong gobyernong bayan! Itatayo natin ang isang gobyernong naglilingkod sa interes ng masang anakpawis at buong sambayanan. Gobyernong pinamumunan nating mga manggagawa, sa pamamagitan ng ating Partido, ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas!

Manggagawa at mamamayan, lumahok sa digmang bayan, sumapi sa New People’s Army! Sa pamamagitan lang ng armadong rebolusyon natin maagaw ang pampulitikang kapangyarihan mula sa iilang naghahari-harian at mapagsamantala.
Ipagtagumpay ang pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon! Sa tagumpay ng rebolusyong Pilipino, mapapalaya natin ang bansa mula sa pagsasamantala ng imperyalismong Kano, mawawakasan ang paghahari-harian ng mga bulok at kurakot na pulitiko, at maipapamahagi sa mga magsasaka ng malawak na lupaing kinamkam ng mga hacienderong gaya ni Aquino!

Nananawagan ang Revolutionary Council of Trade Unions, at iba pang rebolusyonaryong organisasyon sa ilalim ng NDFP, sa lahat ng mga manggagawa at mamamayang Pilipino, na tahakin ang landas ng rebolusyonaryong pakikibaka para sa tunay na kalayaan at demokrasya! Magtayo ng mga binhi ng rebolusyon sa bawat pagawaan, eskwelahan at komunidad. Yakapin natin ang pamumuno ng Partido Komunista Pilipinas!

Sa pamumuno at gabay ng Partido Komunista, natitiyak nating maipagtatagumpay ang pambansa-demokratikong rebolusyon! Mahahawan ang landas sa pagkamit ng isang lipunang tunay na malaya, lipunang walang pagsasamantala, lipunang may pagkakapantay-pantay, lipunan ng uring manggagawa, ang sosyalismo! Sa Partido Komunista, may maningning tayong hinaharap!

IPAGBUNYI ANG IKA-APATNAPU’T ANIM NA ANIBERSARYO NG CPP!
MABUHAY ANG PARTIDO KOMUNISTA NG PILIPINAS!
MABUHAY ANG NEW PEOPLE’S ARMY!
MABUHAY ANG NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES!
MABUHAY ANG URING MANGGAGAWA!
MABUHAY ANG REBOLUSYONG PILIPINO!
MANGGAGAWA AT MAMAMAYAN, LUMAHOK SA DIGMANG BAYAN!

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141219_ibagsak-ang-rehimeng-us-aquino-itayo-ang-gobyernong-bayan

CPP/NPA: Bukas nga sulat para kay Boy Dulla kag sa iya pamilya sang Brgy. Camalandaan, Cauayan

NPA propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 19): Bukas nga sulat para kay Boy Dulla kag sa iya pamilya sang Brgy. Camalandaan, Cauayan (Open letter to Boy Dulla and his family in Brgy. Camalandaan, Cauayan)


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Andrea Guerrero
Spokesperson
NPA Southwest Negros Front Operations Command (Armando Sumayang Jr. Command)
 
Para sa imo Boy kag imo Pamilya,
 
Sa ngalan sg pagpakig-isa sa pumuluyo sa pagselebrar sg Paskwa kag sa pagpakig-abyan sg rebolusyonaryong kahublagan, kami nagapadangat sang amon mainit nga pagpanamyaw sa imo kag sa imo pamilya!

Bisan naulihi na, amon man ginapadangat ang a,om pagpakigbuylog sa kalisod kag kasubo sang pamailya ni Alfonso Dulla sa iya hinali nga kamatayon.

Una, ginapadangat naman nga wala sg kahilabtanan ang rebolusyonaryong kahublagan — ang Partido Komunista sg Pilipinas (PKP), New People’s Army (NPA) kag National Democratic Front (NDF), sa pagkapatay sg inyo utod nga si Alfonso Dulla.

Bisan pa madamu nga pumuluyo ang nagsampa sang kaso nga murder kag pagpangawat sg kasapatan sa Rebolusyonaryong Korte sg Pumuluyo sa Southwest Negros batuk sa inyo utod, napending ang pagdesisyon sg Korte angot sa ini nga mga kaso bangud sa konsiderasyon nga may nakita nga pagbag-o sa iya kag luyag sg hublag makuha ang bahin ni Alfonso, samtang nagapadayon ang pagpang-usisa.

Base sa amon pag-imbestiga sa mga masaligan nga source, isa ka kontra o kaaway (ari sa amon ang ngalan) ni Alfonso Dulla ang nagbayad sg P50,000 sa mga berdugong Revolutionary Proletarian Army o RPA para patyon ang inyo utod.

Kun inyo mahinumduman, RPA man ang responsable nga nagpatay kay Hon. Judge Henry Arles base sa ginaalegar nga pagsugo ni Lim-ao Alvarez kag Jerry Tabujara, kabaylo ang ginatos ka libo ka piso nga kwarta. Sila man ang responsable sa pila ka kaso sg pagpatay sa mga lider mangunguma kag pagpang-abdak sa mga katapu sg rebong hublag. Wala na sila sg kinatuhay sa mga kontra-sosyal nga bayaran nga mga “goons for hire”.

Ang mga nauna nga katapu sg RPA, mga anay NPA nga naggwa sa hublag matapos sila ang nagpangindi sa pagbaton sg ila kasaypanan sa paglihis sa sandigan nga prinsipyo sg Partido kag magpanumbalik sa masa kag magpangayo sg pasensya sa mga masa ilabe na ang nahalitan sadtong panahon sg paglihis sg ulihi nga bahin sg dekada 80 kag temprano sg dekada 90.

Imbes himuon ang pagsaway kag pagsaway sa kaugalingon dira sa atubang sg masa, mas ginpakamaayo sg RPA ang magtukod sg bag-o nga grupo nga amo ang RPA. Bangud wala na sg husto nga prinsipyong ubay, madali sila nagsurender sa reaksyunaryong gubyerno sadto sa panahon ni Joseph Estrada kag sa mga masunod nga mga presidente. Kag sa karon, lubos na gid ang ila pagpakatuta sa Phil. Army kag sa gobyerno. Sila na karon ang tigpatuman sa mga kontra-pumuluyo nga programa kag polisiya sg gobyerno katulad sg mina, agrikultural nga plantasyon sg saging, pinya, palm oil kag rubber tree diri sa ika-anum nga dist rito sg Negros. Nga nagaresulta sa dislokasyon o pagkadula sg pangabuhian sg makaluluoy nga mga ma ngunguma. Sa idalum sg superbisyon sg Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), ginbadyetan sila sg gobyerno sg P500 million sa una nga phase kag P33 million sa ikaduha nga phase. Samtang ang mga mangunguma nga nagademanda sg libre nga abono, binhi, kagamitan sa panguma ilabe na ang duta, wala ginahatagan pagtamod sg gobyerno.

Lubos nagpakita na sg ila pagkabandido ang grupo sg RPA sa ila racketeering activities bilang mga “goons for hire” sg mga tradisyunal nga pulitiko, agalon mayduta kag dalagkung negosyante. Kag ang inyo utod, biktima sini nga racketeering sg RPA.

Nakahibalo man kami nga sadtong dekada 80-90, may mga pila ka indi paghangpanay sa tunga ninyo / inyo pamilya kag sa rebong hublag nga nagres ulta sg pila ka pagpamatay. Resulta na yadto sg mga arbitraryong desisyon sg Hukbo kag YM bang ud nabuy-an na ang diwa sg pag-alagad sa pumuluyo.

Bangud sina, tampad, hugot sa balatayagon kag mapainubuson ng a nagapangayo kami sg inyo nga pagpasaylo sa kahalitan nga natuga sa inyo sadto.

Apang, wala naman nagakahulugan nga bangud nakasayop ang rebong hublag sadto, matabunan na ang krimen sg inyo utod nga pagpamatay, pagpangawat sg kasapatan kag mga pagpamahog. Bilang tawo, obligado kita maghimo sg kaayuha n sa aton isig-ka-tawo, respetuhon ang ila kinamatarung kag pangapinan ang kabuhi sg bisan sin-o man. Gani ang pagl apas sini, nagakahulugan nga may salabton kita sa aton kapareho.
Ikaduha, ginapadangat namon ang amon pagkadis maya sa inyo ginhimo nga pagpamahog sa pumuluyo kag pagpangpuo sa mga tinanom nga kape sa sulod sg 114 ektarya nga Looc Watershed Area. Wala’y sapayan kun sin-o man ang nagtanom si na nga mga kape, dapat tani malipay kamo ilabe na ang inyo Bantay Bukid bangud ginbuligan ka mo nga matamnan sg kahoy ang Watershed Area. Mangin kabahin unta ini sg inyo accomplishment report.

Indi bala reporestasyon man ang inyo tuyo bila ng mga Bantay Bukid kag environmentalists? Kag indi bala kape ang isa sa ginapatanom sa inyo upod na ang mga rattan, acacia kag iban pa nga kahoy sa sulod sg watershed areas?

Namonitor kag nakita namon mism o ang pila ka beses nga pag-operasyon ninyo upod ang mga Bantay Bukid kag pila ka CAFGU sulod sg Watershe d area kag may dala kamo matag-as kalibre nga mga armas. Apang wala kamo namo n gintandog bangud gina-asyumer namon nga posible ara pa ang inyo kaakig sa rebong hublag (sa NPA sa partikul ar) bangud nagapati gid kamo seguro nga kami ang nagpatay sa inyo utod. Nahangpan namon ina!

Pero nagapangabay kami nga indi na ninyo ini pa gsigehon bangud nagatuga kamo sg kahadlok sa pumuluyo.

Para sa inyo ihibalo, masobra sa 1/3 sg kape han sa Barangays sg Ca mindangan, Sipalay kag Cauayan gintanom sg NPA kg YM sadtong deka da 80-90 kag karon pada yon nagabeneisyo sa pumuluyo.

Magluwas sa kape, nagatanom man ang NPA sg sagi ng, bisul, utanon kag mga punong kahoy para sa benepisyo sg pumuluyo kag sg aton palib ot. Ginatudluan man sg NPA ang pumuluyo sa siyentipikong pagpanguma kag sustenableng agrikultura.
Luyag man namon ipadangat sa inyo, nga may pi la na ka kaso sg murder,
pagpangawat, pagpamahog kag pagpalupok sg armas ang ginsampa sg pumuluyo dira sa Korte sg Pumuluyo batuk sa imo, Boy Dulla kag sa pila nimo ka upod, sa panahon antes ka pa nangin Brgy. Captain tubtob nangin Kapitan ka na.

Kag bisan pa may mga “prima facie” kag bastante nga mga circumstantial evidence batuk sa inyo, gin-freeze anay ang pagdesisyon sg Korte sg Pumuluyo bangud nagapangita pa kita sg higayon nga mapangapinan nimo ang imo kaugalingon ka g mahatagan ikaw sg due process of law nga ginamando sg isa ka makatarungan kag patas nga si stema sg hustisya sg Rebong Korte sg Pumuluyo.

Angot sini, nagabukas kag nagaimbi tar kami sa imo nga mag-istoryah anay kita para matadlong na ang pila ka indi paghangpanay sa aton mga bahi n. Bisan pa man may tuhay kita nga politikal kag ideolohikal nga panindugan kag panan-awan, kami nagapati nga sa kaidadalman sg imo tagipusuon nagapabilin ang imo Kristohanon nga handum sa pagp aluntad sg kalinong kag katawhay sa aton lugar nga ginahamtangan.
Bisan na lang sa ispiritu sg Paskwa, tugutan naton nga mangabuhi ang pumuluyo nga hilway kag wala ginatublag sg ila kahadlok. Isentro naton ang aton kusog sa pagpakig-away dira sa mga nagaagaw sg aton pangabuhian katulad sg pagsulod sg mga makahalalit nga mina kag mga multinational agrikutural nga mga plantasyon katulad sg pinya, oil palm kag rubber tree.

Ginalauman gid namon ang imo positibong pagsabat.
Salamat kag mahidaeton nga pagsaulog sg Paskwa kag Bag-ong Tuig!

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141219_bukas-nga-sulat-para-kay-boy-dulla-kag-sa-iya-pamilya-sang-brgy-camalandaan-cauayan

CPP/NPA: 10 ka adlaw nga ceasefire ipatuman sa NPA-NCMR, pag-release sa 2 ka POW giandam

NPA propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 19): 10 ka adlaw nga ceasefire ipatuman sa NPA-NCMR, pag-release sa 2 ka POW giandam
(10-day ceasefire implemented NPA NCMR release of 2 POW prepared)
 
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Alan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Julito Tiro Command)
 
Hugot nga mosanong ang tanang kumand ug yunit sa New People’s Army sa North Central Mindanao Region sa nasudnong kamanduan sa Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas alang sa kaugalingong 10 ka adlaw nga ceasefire samtang magpabilin kining alerto ug aktibong modepensa sa kaugalingon bisan pa man gideklara sa gubyernong Aquino ang 33 ka adlaw nga unilateral Suspension of Offensive Military Operation (SOMO) ug Suspension of Offensive Police Operation (SOPO). Samtang, ginaandam na sa custodial unit sa NPA ang pagbuhi sa duha ka prisoners of war nga nabihag sa Bukidnon.

Isip pakighiusa sa katawhang Pilipino sa pagsaulog sa pasko ug bag-ong tuig, lakip na sa pagbisita sa Santo Papa sa Simbahang Katoliko, walay unsa mang ilunsad nga opensibang operasyon ang tanang yunit gerilya sa NPA-NCMR ug milisyang bayan batok sa AFP-PNP ug mga grupong paramilitar karong Disyembre 24 hangtud 26, 2014, Disyembre 31 hangtud Enero 1, 2015 ug Enero 15 hangtud 19, 2015.

Kahigayunan sab kini alang sa pagsaulog sa tanang rebolusyonaryong pwersa sa rehiyon sa ika-46 nga anibersaryo sa Partido Komunista karong Disyembre 26.
Sa laing bahin, klaro nga ang deklarasyon sa ceasefire sa rehimeng US-BS Aquino nagtangag sa duha ka tumong. Una, ang pagpanglingla sa publiko aron ipakita nga sinsero kuno kini sa pagkab-ot sa kalinaw. Taliwala kini sa kamatuoran nga ang rehimen walay gipakitang bisan gamay nga timailhan sa pagsulbad sa ugat-hinungdan sa armadong pagsukol sa katawhan batok sa pagdominar sa imperyalismong US sa nasud, kawalay yuta sa mga nagtikad ug kadunot sa reaksyonaryong gubyerno. Ikaduhang tumong mao ang paglit-ag o pag-atake sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan sa haw-ang pangandoy niini nga mapulpog o bisan man lang mapugngan ang pagkusog sa rebolusyon sa dili pa matapos ang iyang termino.

Dahumon nato ang subling paglapas sa reaksyunaryong kasundalohan sa ilang kaugalingong ceasefire. Sa kasinatian, gigamit lang nila ang maong higayon aron tiktikan ug dakpon ang mga Pulang manggugubat, kumander ug kadre nga mobisita o moadto sa syudad o sentrong lungsod sa unsa mang katuyuan. Gani, ang pagdakop kang Kasamang Pedro Codaste sa Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur nahitabo niadtong Disyembre 16, 2010 sa adlaw mismo sa pagsugod sa ceasefire. Maluibon sab nga nagalunsad og combat operations sa kabukiran ang kasundalohan ug kapulisan sa pasangil nga mag-serve sa warrant of arrest ug paggukod sa mga kriminal sa pamasin nga magluag sa seguridad ang mga gerilyang yunit sa NPA.

Ug tungod kay wala gilakip sa AFP pagsuspende ang Community Organizing for Peace and Development o COPD, padayon gihapon ang ilang militarisasyon o pagpanghasi sa mga sentrong baryo ug mga hilit nga komunidad bisan og naay ceasefire. Sa ingon, sulod sa 51 ka mga baryo dinhi sa rehiyon nga gi-COPD, ginaguba nila ang diwa sa pasko tungod kay nahikawan ang mga lumulupyo sa gawasnon ug malinawong pagpanikay-sikay sa pagsaulog sa pasko ug pagsugat sa bag-ong tuig.

Kataw-anan ang pagkondena ni Maj. Christian Uy sa 4th ID AFP sa among 10 ka adlaw nga ceasefire. Nalimot sila nga walay bilateral nga kasabutan ang GPH ug NDFP alang sa hunong-buto karong tuiga tungod mismo sa pagmagahi sa rehimeng Aquino nga ipadayon ang peace talks. Kahinumduman sab nga nagmagahi pod ang 4th ID sa paghatag sa gipangayong pito ka adlaw nga ceasefire aron mabuhian ang duha ka prisoners of war nga silang Pfc. Marnel Cinches ug Pfc. Jerrel Yorong nga nabihag niadto pang Agosto 22 o halos mag-upat na ka bulan karon. Busa, klarong walay moral nga otoridad ang AFP aron ipanghingusog ang tugbang nga ceasefire kay una sa tanan sila ang nagmagahi niini ug ikaduha, sila mismo ang nagalapas sa kaugalingong deklarasyon sa hunong-buto sa reaksyonaryong rehimeng BS-Aquino.

Sa kasamtangan, ginaandam na sa NPA custodial unit ang pormal nga pagturn-over sa duha ka POW ngadto sa Third Party Facilitators sa unsa mang adlaw panahon sa ceasefire. Ang lugar ug petsa sa pag-release ipadangat lang ngadto sa mga hingtungdan human namo madawat ang release order gikan sa National Democratic Front.
Sa katapusan, angayang masabtan nga dili makahatag sa tinuod ug malungtarong kalinaw ang unsamang temporaryong ceasefire nga sama niini hangtod nagpabiling uyamot ang naghagong katawhan samtang ang nabulahan, pipila lang ka mapahimuslanon. Angay bungkagon sa demokratikong rebolusyon ang semi-pyudal ug semi-kolonyal nga sistemang hinungdan niini ug pulihan sa usa ka makiangayong sistema nga may sosyalistang perspektiba aron maangkon sa katawhan Pilipino ang tinuod nga katilingbanong kausaban ug malungtarong kalinaw.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141219_10-ka-adlaw-nga-ceasefire-ipatuman-sa-npa-ncmr-pag-release-sa-2-ka-pow-giandam
 

 

Military moves to stop NPA extortion this Christmas

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 21): Military moves to stop NPA extortion this Christmas

The military has taken steps to stop New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from extorting local officials and businessmen this Yuletide season.

Col. Ronald Villanueva, 1002nd Army Brigade commander, said the local command of NPA rebel group had sent Christmas cards to local officials and businessmen, asking for  monetary donation during the Christmas season.

“This is pure and simple extortion with an intent to gain carried out by NPA rebels,” Villanueva said.

He noted that the Christmas cards were designed and crafted by a professional lay-out artist.

Villanueva believed that a non-combatant organization, which had links to NPA, could have been responsible for the design and distribution of the Christmas cards.

In the military circle, several militant organizations, which serve as fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines, belong to the white area committee or the non-combatants.

Villanueva said they had already traced the group behind the proliferation of the Christmas cards purportedly sent by the NPA to extort money from local officials and businessmen.

“We are readying some legal actions against the group and some personalities involved in the making and distribution of the Christmas cards used for extortion,” Villanueva.

http://www.mb.com.ph/military-moves-to-stop-npa-extortion-this-christmas/

NDF orders release of 9 “prisoners of war”

From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Dec 21): NDF orders release of 9 “prisoners of war”

It will be a merry Christmas, indeed, for the families of the eight prisoners-of-war (POWs) who were captured by the New Peoples’ Army (NPA) from August to December this year as the National Democratic Front of the Philippines ordered their immediate release.

According to a statement released by NDF-Mindanao, Saturday, the POWs include three policemen from Alegria and Malimono in Surigao del Norte, and one member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) from Bayugan in Northeastern Mindanao Region; two soldiers belonging to the 8th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army  and one member of CAFGU under the 26th Infantry Battalion from Northcentral Mindanao; and two members of the Philippine Army from Southern Mindanao Region.

The POWs will be released by their respective custodial units, NDF Mindanao spokesman, Ka Oris said.

“Their release orders were signed by the National Executive Council of the NDFP,” Ka Oris said.

The police officers were identified as Police Officers 1 Democrito Polvorosa and Marichel Contemplo who were arrested from Alegria, Surigao del Norte last November 16 and Junrie Amper from Malimono, Surigao del Norte last November 12.

Last August 22, Private First Class Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong  both soldiers under the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion were captured by elements of the NPA 5pm of August 22 in the wet market of Barangay Buntungon, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

On December 2 Corporal Benjamin Samano and Private First Class Alvin Ricarte, both from 60th IB, were captured in  New Corella,  Davao del Norte. The two soldiers were released today in Montevista, Compostela Valley. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte assisted the release of the soldiers.

Samano and Ricarte were held captive after a raid executed by the NPA Guerilla Front 33 at the compound of Sumitomo Fruits Corporation in New Corella at around 3:45 am said Ka Aris Francisco of the NPA Comval North Davao South Agusan Subregional Command.

Ka Oris said that all the POWs will be released “without the necessary trial under the People’s Court of the People’s Democratic Government because of humanitarian consideration and as our way of wishing the people a peaceful celebration of the Christmas season.”

Ka Oris added that they will also release the POWs as part of their celebration of the 46th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on December 26.
The NDF Mindanao spokesman assured the family of the POWs that they are in good condition and that their basic needs were attended to by their captors.

Ka Oris said that the POWs also cooperated with the respected NPA custodial units.

Girespeto usab ang ilang mga katungod isip mga bihag sa gubat subay sa International Humanitarian Law ug sa Protocols of War (Their rights as prisoners of war are also respected in accordance with the International Humanitarian Law and the Protocols of War),” Ka Oris said.

During his weekly program, Gikan sa Masa Para sa Masa, Duterte said that he has no problems with the NPA’s treatment of the POW as they “adhere to the Geneva Conventions.”

The NDF called on the Government of the Philippines (GPH) to be sincere in implementing its declared Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO) and Suspension of Police Operations (SOPO) from the midnight of December 18 to January 19, 2015 for the safe and orderly release of the POWs.

http://davaotoday.com/politics/ndf-orders-release-of-9-prisoners-war/

NPAs release POWs to Duterte

From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Dec 21): NPAs release POWs to Duterte

NPAs release POWs to Duterte

Five days before the 46th year anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed wing, the New People’s Army, released its two “prisoners of war” to Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte somewhere in the hinterlands of Montevista, Compostela Valley Province Sunday afternoon.

Around 2:39 in the afternoon, Duterte flew in with two helicopters to fetch Corporal Benjamin Samano and Private First Class Alvin Ricarte, both belonging to the 60th Infantry Battalion.

Samano and Ricarte were captured during a raid by the NPA Guerilla Front 33 at the compound of Sumitomo Fruits Corporation (Sumifru) in New Corella, Davao del Norte last December 2.

The two soldiers were on duty guarding the Sumifru compound when the NPA who were disguised as workers raided the area around 3:45 AM.

Ka Aris Francisco of the the NPA’s Comval North Davao-South Agusan Subregional Command, said they “punished the Japanese-owned banana exporter Sumifru for its gross violations of rights of its workers.”

“The NPA received complaints from the workers and their families that the company has imposed 16-work hour shifts without overtime pay in padlocked, jail-like building.  Arbitrary termination and suspension of workers without due cause are also rampant,” said Francisco.

The families of the two POWs appealed to the NPA and the government last Thursday for their safe and orderly release.

The release orders of Samano and Ricarte were signed at around 11 AM.

The POWs were later brought to the headquarters of the Eastern Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Panacan, Davao City.

Duterte also vouched that the NPAs have treated the prisoners well.

Wala pay nadakpan ang NPA nga gipasakitan (There was no case where the NPA hurt their captives),” Duterte said during the program on the release of the two Army men.

“They adhere to the rules of the Geneva Convention,” he said.

Before the POWs left, they exchanged goodbyes with their captors. Ricarte even thanked the NPA.

Meanwhile, the mayor offered the communists to establish a coalition government should he run as president on 2016.

“I ask the government, why have the peace talks stalled. If I were to run, I would finish the peace talks and end the war,” he said.

Duterte also quipped regarding rumored presidential ambitions saying “Ang akong tuyo diri, makighimamat ko. Kung modagan ko, madaug ko diri? (My aim here is to talk to you. If I run, will I win here?)” he said.

http://davaotoday.com/politics/npas-release-pows-duterte/

Military notes PHL defense readiness on contested waters

From the Business Mirror (Dec 21): Military notes PHL defense readiness on contested waters

THE military believes it can parry off any security threat in the West Philippine Sea, even the one coming from China, with the list of assets and equipment that it is currently procuring.

Navy Vice Commander Rear Adm. Caesar Taccad said they are capable of defending the country’s stakes in the disputed territory, even while the Philippines is not in the level of China militarily and even with the armies of its neighbors.

He said the credible deterrent force would even be boosted once the Navy would have its complete share out of the ongoing modernization program of the military, like the two frigates and several antisubmarine helicopters.

The frigates, which are to be sourced out from South Korea; and the antisubmarine helicopters, would hopefully be delivered next year, according to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang.

Taccad said the credible defense posture, coupled by the military strategy that they are putting up in the West Philippine Sea, should at least make them on a par with China in the disputed territory.

“In the West Philippine Sea, yes we could catch up in the sense that we can attain the desired level that we can provide the necessary deterrence,” Taccad said last week.

“You don’t need to overtake their capability. You just need to be able to approximate their capability and be able to proficiently use such capability in the sense that you will be able to hurt [them] where it [would] hurt most,” he added.

While the Navy vice commander did not mention China, he was obviously referring to Beijing, which former President Fidel Ramos referred to as a “bully” during the 79th anniversary celebrations of the AFP last week. Credible defense posture is what Catapang is pushing for the military, citing their mandate to defend the country’s territory and their necessity to meet and respond to evolving regional threats and security challenges. “In the middle of an evolving regional security architecture that is increasingly volatile and uncertain, it is imperative for the AFP to develop its territorial defense capability,” Catapang said.

“It is important that we adjust our defense structures and synchronize our systems and processes in order to shape an Armed Force capable of providing a credible defense posture,” he added. Taccad admitted the security challenge in the West Philippine Sea hastened the modernization of the military, given China’s activities in the area.

“It is our mandate to protect our territory and, of course, safeguard our sovereignty.
“The events in the West Philippine Sea actually did gave some urgency to the acquisition,” he said.

“For us, it is already urgent before, but because of the event there, it became more urgent for the Filipinos and, of course, for the country,” he added.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/military-notes-phl-defense-readiness-on-contested-waters/

PAF opens Fernando Air Base to public as ‘Christmas village’

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 22): PAF opens Fernando Air Base to public as ‘Christmas village’

The Air Force is opening its Fernando Air Base to civilians in Batangas to experience its “Christmas village” highlighted by a 60-foot Christmas tree made from used steel drums.

Maj. Gen. Raul Dimatatac, commander of the Air Education Training Command (AETC) based at Fernando Ai Base in Lipa City, said the AETC “Christmas village” is designed to gather military personnel and their dependents and civilian communities to celebrate the Yuletide Season.

“That is why we went out of our way to build the Christmas decors as a way to invite the communities to Fernando Air Base and for them to fully understand peace from our perspective,” Dimatatac said.

According to Dimatatac, the activity is also aimed at building peace between the military and the civilian communities.

“The AETC students shall also benefit in this activity by having a first-hand learning process of how peace is built between the communities and the military,” he said.

“We are committed to the achievement of peace, he declared, adding that the New Year’s countdown is a good way for communities and the PAF to gather together in order to start the year with the idea of peace,” Dimatatac also said.

The air base opened its Christmas village last Dec. 15.

The giant Christmas tree, standing 60 feet tall and made from 517 used steel drums, stands out at the center of the AETC grounds, especially during night time when it is lighted.

All AETC units around the field came up with their own Christmas decorations made from recycle materials, including debris left by typhoons “Glenda” and “Ruby.”

Dimatatac said that the Christmas tree was painted by artists from the Build Peace and Teach Peace Movement, who were also responsible in the world’s longest peace mural on Camp Aguinaldo walls.

He said the AETC will recognize tomorrow various individuals and organizations who took part in the preparation of the Christmas village.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/paf-opens-fernando-air-base-to-public-as-christmas-village

Bangsamoro law critics adopting anti-people stance — MILF

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 22): Bangsamoro law critics adopting anti-people stance — MILF

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is branding the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as the “menu” for the country’s peace and development, claiming the proposed law has the “overwhelming” support from the Moros and tagged those who are opposing it as “anti-people.”

In an editorial posted over its website, the MILF also said it is surprised that those harping negative sentiments on BBL are people outside the jurisdiction of the proposed law.

It, however, did not name names.

The MILF stressed the BBL, which is currently undergoing scrutiny by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, is designed to address the decades-long Moro Question that claimed the lives more than 200,000 people.

It blamed the conflict to the country’s status lagging behind other neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

“As clearly stated time and again, the BBL is a menu to address the Moro Problem or Question which has pestered the country for decades and which caused it to lag far behind its Asian neighbors,” the MILF claimed.

“Solving this problem is solving the nation’s problem. The BBL is a menu for peace, development and unity of this country,” it added.

The MILF maintained that the BBL is for the entire Bangsamoro inhabitants – Muslims, Christians and indigenous peoples (IPs), who were given special privileges under the proposed law.

“This is the reason – never mind the spoilers — that whoever criticizes the BBL is adopting an anti-people stance. The BBL is for the entire inhabitants of the Bangsamoro, be they Muslims, IPs or Christians. Being Bangsamoro is only an identity; it does not confer any privileges,” the MILF said.

“If any group who has been given special privileges in the BBL, they are the IPs,” it added.

The MILF even noted the supposed silence of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari on BBL.

“Clearly the Moros are overwhelmingly behind the proposed law, including those in the island provinces of Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan. Even MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari is silent these days on the BBL,” the MILF said.

“We do not expect him to come out openly for the BBL, but just to be mum on the BBL is already a sign of greatness in the offing,” the MILF said of Misuari.

“To date, there is hardly any Moro leader or politician who has not expressed support to the BBL. We are sure everybody will be on board soon,” it further said.

Earlier, however, both panel heads of the Senate – Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and Congress, Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, have noted provisions in the BBL that could be similar to the Memorandum of Agreement on the Ancestral Domain (MoA-AD) which was declared as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2008.

Rodriguez said his panel is seriously considering the concerns raised against some provisions in the BBL that may be declared unconstitutional by the SC, such as allowing other areas outside the Bangsamoro territory to also join the entity upon a petition of at least 10 percent of the constituents;  creation of an internal audit body aside from the Commission on Audit (CoA);  the duplication of the power of the Ombudsman to probe its officials; the  establishment of its own civil service, its own human rights body, and its own poll body that would oversee elections in the sub-state.

Marcos, chairman of the Senate committee on local government which oversees the deliberations of the BBL, seconded the contention aired by House counterparts.

Marcos highlighted the grounds used by the high tribunal in declaring as unconstitutional the MoA-AD which was the agreement signed during the term of President Arroyo that sought to create the Bangsamoro juridical entity saying some of the attributes are also present in the BBL.

The senator also said the Philippine Constitution Association, in a position paper, also cited several constitutional questions.

On top of these, Marcos said, there are some “administrative” concerns also facing legal issues.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/bangsamoro-law-critics-adopting-anti-people-stance-milf

NPA releases 2 abducted soldiers to Davao's Duterte

From GMA News (Dec 21): NPA releases 2 abducted soldiers to Davao's Duterte

Communist New People's Army rebels released two captive soldiers to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday afternoon, news site Davao Today reported.
 
The release of Cpl. Benjamin Samano and Pfc. Alvin Ricarte, both from the Army's 60th Infantry Battalion, took place in the hinterlands of Montevista town in the Compostela Valley. 
 
Duterte arrived had arrived in the area aboard a helicopter, and the two soldiers were brought to the headquarters of the Eastern Mindanao Command in Davao City.
 
The release came days after the Communist Party of the Philippines announced a ceasefire for Christmas, New Year and the visit of Pope Francis.
 
The NPA abducted Samano and Ricarte last Dec. 2 at the compound of the Sumitomo Fruits Corp. in New Corella town in Davao del Norte.
 
Relatives of the soldiers had appealed to the NPA and the government for the release.
 
Meanwhile, Duterte said the two soldiers were treated well, and that the NPA had "adhered to the rules of the Geneva Convention.”
 
More captives to be released
 
Davao Today also reported that the National Democratic Front (NDF) would soon release more captives.
 
A Saturday NDF Mindanao statement said that those to be released included:
 
  • PO1 Democrito Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel Contemplo, who were abducted in Alegria, Surigao del Norte last November 16;
  • Junrie Amper, abudcted in Malimono, Surigao del Norte last November 12; and
  • Pfc. Marnel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong from the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, captured last August 22.
 
NDF Mindanao spokesman Ka Oris said the "release orders" had been signed by the NDF's National Executive Council.
 
Oris explained that the captives would be released because of "humanitarian considerations," and the Communist Party of the Philippines' anniversary.