Philippines: We condemn extension of Martial Law in Mindanao (tags)
The extension of martial law in Mindanao to the end of 2018 by Congress comes as no surprise to Laban ng Masa (Fight of the Masses). Over the last year and a half, the Senate and the House of Representatives have been completely transformed into pliant tools of President Rodrigo Duterte, with the vast majority of the members of these two chambers surrendering their remaining shred of self-respect to become accomplices to Malacanang’s authoritarian agenda.
World Alert against Assasination of Pilipino Community Radio Member (tags)
We do not have many background but a tragic loss to the Mindanao people took place recently. WQE do not have the name of the airshifter nor the radio station but it was reported that the people in Mindanao have suffered many assasinations of prominent journalists over the year.
PHILIPPINES: Martial Law is Not the Answer! (tags)
Statements on the imposition of martial law in Mindanao
The Philippines’ New Strongman (tags)
Rodrigo Duterte’s authoritarian neoliberalism isn’t the answer to poverty and political abuse in the Philippines.
Philippines: Police shoot hungry protesters (tags)
On April 1, police opened fire on indigenous and rural poor protesters who were blocking the highway into Kidapawan in the landlocked province of Cotabato on the island of Mindanao, killing three protesters and injuring at least 116.
Philippines: Lumads to AFP, NPA: Leave us alone (tags)
MANILA, Philippines — A group claiming to represent 33 lumad (indigenous people) tribes in Mindanao on Friday urged the military and the rebel group New People's Army (NPA) to stop dragging them into their conflict and to respect their human rights and ancestral domain.
Disbandment of militias key to Peace in Mindanao, Philippines (tags)
Akbayan Partylist supports the investigation of the killing of lumads particularly in the CARAGA region and bringing the perpetrators to justice. There is no place for impunity in our shared pursuit of just and lasting peace in Mindanao.
Philippines: Binay tirades smack of desperation (tags)
Philippine Vice-President Jejomar Binay’s attempt at delivering a “True” State of the Nation Address (TSONA) suffers from a very basic flaw: a lack of credibility in the one delivering it. His antics reek of desperation against the mounting cases of corruption against him. Binay, in the course of losing his grip on the Presidency is trying to grasp at straws to deflect issues.
Tribute to Comrade Leoncio Pitao (Commander Parago) (tags)
I join the Filipino people, the people’s revolutionary government, the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, the revolutionary mass organizations and other revolutionary forces in mourning the death of Comrade Leoncio Pitao (Commander Parago) and in celebrating his achievements from the time he joined the NPA in 1978 until his martyrdom yesterday on June 28, 2015.
Various Groups in the Philippines Conduct a Peace March (tags)
Various groups unite and conducted a peace march from Sandiganbayan to the House of Representatives in support of the immediate passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and for lasting peace in Muslim Mindanao.
PHILIPPINES: Statement on International Women’s Day (tags)
The Philippines Should Stop Being US’s Pawn and Warfront
Philippines: The fate of peace in Mindanao hangs in the balance (tags)
Akbayan statement on the video of killing of injured SAF trooper
Mindanao, Philippines: An Appeal for All-out Justice; All-out Peace (tags)
Today, we reiterate the collective call to give justice to all who have perished in this tragedy and to ask that we recommit ourselves to a lasting peace in Mindanao.
The Philippines-Bangsamoro Agreement (tags)
The Bangsamoro Agreement: A Step towards Re-imagining and Rebuilding the Philippine Nation
Philippines: Declare a humanitarian ceasefire in Zamboanga City now! (tags)
A Petition Campaign in Support for Dialogue, Humanitarian Action and Ceasefire
On Typhoon Bhopa and the Doha Conference (tags)
Typhoon Bhopa (Philippine name Pablo) have resulted to a total number of 647 casualties, with another 1,842 people injured, and 780 missing.
AMIN Joins Mindanao Week of Peace 2012 Celebrations (tags)
PHILIPPINES: Anak Mindanao (AMIN) Party List members joined the Solidarity-Cultural Walk for Peace from Bantayog ng mga Bayani to the Quezon City Memorial Circle this morning (December 5, 2012) for the culmination ceremony of this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace celebration.
On the Peace Framework Signing between the Philippine Government and the MILF (tags)
Official Statement of the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa - Mindanao (RPM-M) on the Peace Framework Signing between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
Philippine campaign against high electricity rates snowballs (tags)
QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Thousands of electricity consumers from 55 cities and municipalities from 15 provinces and 10 regions are expected to stage a multi-form protest on November 22, dubbed as “National Day of Action against Epira (Electric Power Industry Reform Act), high electricity rates and privatization of the power industry.”
The Roadmap for Peace in Mindanao, Philippines (tags)
The Party of the Laboring Masses (PLM), a national political party of the marginalized sectors, welcomes the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement as a roadmap for peace in Mindanao. The agreement is also the first step to end the centuries-old oppression of the Moro people in Mindanao.
PHILIPPINES: On the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (tags)
The Alliance of Progressive Labor (APL) joins the Filipino people, especially the Bangsamoros in Mindanao, in welcoming, although guardedly, the historic signing today of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
MILITARISAYON SA MINDANAO, LUMULUBHA (tags)
Iniulat ngayon ng Pesante-USA, na ayon sa mga koresponsal nito, nagapapautloy ang brutal at todo-todong digma ang inilulunsad ngayon ng rehimeng US-Aquino laban sa mamamayan ng Mindanao. Ito ay alinsunod sa kontra-mamamayan at anti-nasyunal na programa nito na bigyang-laya ang pandarambong ng mga dayuhang kumpanya sa pagmimina, pagtotroso at komersyal na plantasyon sa likas na yaman ng isla. Ayon din sa mga nakalap na balita ng Pesante-USA na nakabase sa Los Angeles, mula Enero 2012, walang patumanggang pambobomba at pang-iistraping at iba pang paglabag sa karapatang-tao ang isinagawa na ng mga armadong galamay nito sa mga sibilyang komunidad.
Donate to Sagip Tulong-Pilipinas (tags)
Daig ng maagap ang masipag" Time and time again, the Philippine government has failed in protecting the people from natural and man-made disasters. Instead, the government succeeded in prolonging the agony of the people for failing to deliver basic services to the people who are victims of natural disasters. Thus ,the People's CORE , a 501 (C) 3 organization in Southern California announced that it is relaunching Sagip-Tulong Pilipinas (STP) and is accepting now, cash or check only donations for Sagip- Tulong Pilipinas (STP)-Emergency Relief to Mindanao flood victims. Please send checks or cash: to People’s CORE, 1610 Beverly Blvd. Suite No. 2, Los Angeles, CA 90026. Please also write in the memo: STP-Mindanao 2011. Sagip -Tulong Pilipinas (STP), 2011
AN URGENT CALL: DONATE TO PEOPLE’S CORE STP-Relief Mindanao 2011 (tags)
An urgent call to all: Be generous this Christmas season, donate/give to STP Relief Drive for Mindanao 2011 and help the victims of the Mindanao flood victims, 2011. The ECPP NEWS reported today that the People's CORE , a 501 (C) 3 organization in Southern California announced Sagip-Tulong Pilipinas (STP) and is accepting now, cash or check only donations for Sagip- Tulong Pilipinas (STP)-Emergency Relief to Mindanao flood victims. Please send checks or cash: to People’s CORE, 1610 Beverly Blvd. Suite No. 2, Los Angeles, CA 90026. Pleasealso write in the memo: STP-Mindanao 2011.
NDF-MINDANAO REAFFIRM COMMITMENT TO NDF-MILF ALLIANCE (tags)
The EPCC NEWS based in Los Angeles reported today that the NDF-Mindanao thru its spokesperson Jorge Madlos reaffirmed the rebel alliance with the MILF in the island of Mindanao. Madlos said that: ? The breaking of diplomatic protocol by the respective principals of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), for the sake of achieving a final peace settlement is admirable if only the outcome of their talks truly serve the best interest of the Moro and non-Moro peoples alike.? The NDF also said; ? Such an agreement must be based on the Moro people?s genuine right to self-determination, sovereignty, patrimony, and basic economic and political reforms that shall mainly benefit the long-suffering Bangsamoro.
FIGHTING INTENSIFIES IN CARAGA REGION IN NORTHEAST MINDANAO (tags)
?the EPCC NEWS based in Los Angeles reported today that at least a dozen New People?s Army (NPA) rebels and an Army soldier were killed Sunday following fierce clashes between government forces and the rebels in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, a military official said Monday. But Colonel Rodrigo Diapana, commander of the Army?s 402nd Infantry Brigade based in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, admitted that out of the 12 rebels reported killed by soldiers, only four bodies had been recovered so far. Diapana said Sunday?s loss was a major setback for the NPA. On the other some analyst says the NPA also intensified its tactical offensives in response to intesfied AFP/PNP operations in Mindanao despite the NDF-GPH peace talks.
MILF PLEDGES BANGSAMORO SUBSTATE WILL BE JUST FOR ALL (tags)
The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) welcomes the pronoucement of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that pledges that the Bangsamoro self-governance setup it seeks to be established in Mindanao will not be unjust to non-Moros. ?A just undertaking, pursuing legitimate and civilized methods will always result in just outcome,? MILF chief peace negotiator Mohagher Iqbal told civil society leaders during a recent dialogue here in Cagayan De Oro City, Mindanao last June 13, 2011 The AJLPP appreciates that the Monday?s dialogue with civil society was held by the MILF. This is the 14th was since March. The government panel also held its 31st consultation last week in Tawi-tawi.In Iligan City, chancellor Sukarno Tanggol of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) expressed hope that such dialogues will spell success for the Mindanao peace process.
NDF-GPH CEASEFIRE ENDS, NDF COMMENDS NPA DISCIPLINE (tags)
The Pesante Buletin based in Los Angeles reported today that the NDFP in Mindanao salutes and congratulates all commands and units of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Mindanao and the rest of the country for its display of a high sense of political maturity, responsibility and military discipline during the mutually-declared seven-day ceasefire between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Philippines (GPH). Jorge Madlos, NDF-Mindanao spokesperson commended the NPA units in Southern Mindanao, in an act of goodwill and for humanitarian reasons, have released three prisoners-of-war (POWs) on separate occasions during the same period, further creating a more favourable atmosphere and bolster confidence for the peace negotiations and the entire peace process.
AFP VIOLATES OWN CEASEFIRE DURING PEACE TALKS (tags)
The PESANTE BULETIN, the news service of PESANTE-USA bassed in the United States reported today that the Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP) is violating the mutually-declared ceasefire which began on 15 February 2011 and will end on 21 February 2011 by conducting military operations in the guise of “civil-military operations” (CMO), “Peace and Development Teams” (PDTs) or “Community Organizer for Peace and Development” (COPD) in many barangays in all provinces of Mindanao. According to Jorge MAdlos of the NDF-Mindanao, fully-armed AFP-PNP-CAFGU units enter barrios or communities in platoon or company formations under the guise of promoting “peace and development” in a desperate attempt to “win over” the people through deceit and intimidation, taking advantage of the NPA reciprocal ceasefire. They break into two groups, whereby one takes charge of psy-war operations in barrio or community centers, while another does the security clearing operations.
Will Peace Break out in the Philippines? (tags)
Will peace break out at last? Much hope has been sparked by the coming resumption of peace talks between the National Democratic Front (NDF) and the Aquino government. Undoubtedly, this optimism stems from the widespread public perception that President Benigno Aquino III is genuinely interested in ending the four-decade-long war between the NDF and the Philippine government.
NDF-MINDANAO CALLS ON ALL REVOLUTIONARY FORCES TO FRUSTRATE OBL COMPLETELY (tags)
The PESANTE BULETIN gathered today that NDF -Mindanao spokeman Jorge madlos said that "the extension of the Arroyo regime’s brutal nine-year anti-insurgency campaign Oplan Bantay Laya exposes Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s real “peace” plan. Aquino's plan the NDF says is to step up military offensives against the New People’s Army (NPA) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) - daydreaming of inducing revolutionary forces to capitulate and to impose its demands on the peace talks consistent with the US Counter Insurgency (COIN) strategy." The NDF also said that He (Aquino III) appears to be in a hurry to please his US imperialist masters, especially in laying the ground for the entry and the increase in profitability of mining companies and foreign-owned plantations such as Xtrata in South Cotabato and Dole Phils. in Surigao del Sur and Compostela Valley, and a host of other foreign monopoly capitalist investments. The NDF Mindanao also said that AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo David Jr., in his declaration of a new counter-insurgency plan by Jan 1, 2011, bragged that the new strategy would focus on the respect for human rights, admitting in effect that nine years of OBL were replete with human rights violations.
The NDF reaffirms its commitment to the MILF and the Bangsamoro struggle for genuine self- (tags)
The PESANTE NEWS learned today through news sources from Mindanao that the National Democratic Front - Mindanao (NDF-Mindanao) shares with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in raising concern with regard to the capability and sincerity of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), presently under Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, in undertaking peace negotiations as a venue to address the just demands of the Bangsamoro. The NDF spokesperson Jorge Madlos said " GRP would have the Moro as well as the Filipino people believe that credible talks under a favorable atmosphere for peace with the MILF would promptly resume after the Holy Ramadan, but all indicators point otherwise.
AFP Launches the biggest military offensive in the Philippines (tags)
"When they (the reactionaries) speak of peace, they wage war." The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States expressed its utmost concern about the intention of the newly installed US-Aquino Regime as the AFP launched its biggest general offensive in Mindanao. The AJLPP learned that Jorge Madlos of the NDF-Mindanao said; " All the four divisions under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) based in Mindanao are currently conducting massive and widespread military operations against the revolutionary forces in all the five NPA regions in the whole island, particularly more intense in the Southern Mindanao Region."
Deathblow to the US-Arroyo regime! Advance the People's War !-NDF (tags)
The Pesante News learned today that on the occasion of its founding anniversary today, April 24, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Southern Mindanao salutes the toiling Filipino workers and peasants and all the patriotic and revolutionary members who belong to the 17 NDFP allied organizations. Thirty seven years ago, the NDF was born out of the people's active resistance to a fascist bankrupt regime; and out of the revolutionary people's movement. This was the gist of the statement of Rubi Del Mundo,Spokesperson of National Democratic Front-Southern Mindanao on April 24, 2010
Rights groups slams Agra’s decision as “a massacre of justice” (tags)
Rights groups slams Agra’s decision as “a massacre of justice”
US-Arroyo Regime practices brinkmanship, Provokes public outrage. (tags)
“ The US-Arroyo regime continues its game of brinkmanship. It continues to anger and provoke the public outrage.” The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) adds it strong voice to the vehement protest of the Filipino people over the clearance given by the Secretary of justice Alberto Agra to the Ampatuans and condems the US-Arroyo dangerous game of brinkmanship. Agra on Friday issued a resolution clearing Governor Zaldy Ampatuan of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and his cousin, former acting Maguindanao vice governor Akmad Ampatuan Sr.
RED SALUTE TO THE NPA FOR ITS 41st YEAR (tags)
The Los Angeles PESANTE NEWS learned today from media sources in the Philippines that Jorge Madlos, NDF Spokesperson for Mindanao said: " We give the highest salute to the New People's Army on its 41st anniversary of its foundation on March 29, 1969 in the second district of Tarlac. In 1972, the NPA also established guerilla fronts in Mindanao and spread swiftly throughout the archipelago. The red fighters of the NPA and the revolutionary masses who have offered their very lives in the service of the people deserve no less than our highest regard and praise.
ALL OPTIONS FOR GMA TO HOLD ON POWER IN PLACE (tags)
The Los Angeles based Pesante News learned today through news sources that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's declaration placing the whole island of Mindanao under a "state of calamity" and the recent Supreme Court decision allowing GMA to appoint the next Chief Justice are but only two among the many measures that prepare the stage for the US-Arroyo regime's continued hold on power. According to NDF-Mindanao spokesperson Jorge Madlos, in scrutiny with regard to the need, legal basis and motive of placing Mindanao under a "state of calamity" and on the timing and legality of the Supreme Court ruling should be viewed in the context of a regime that is insatiable in perpetuating itself in power. The National Democratic Front in Mindanao (NDF-Mindanao) holds that there is an abundance of reason to believe that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo does not intend to relinquish the power she has mustered by way of deceit, bribery, impunity, and militarism over the last nine years. Come hell or high water, she is hell-bent to stay in power, and, like puzzle pieces falling into its proper place, all indication point to this.
NDF-Southern Mindanao on the GRP elections: no illusions (tags)
The EPCC NEWS sources learned today that the general elections under the reactionary Government of the Republic of the Philippines has kicked off with the usual circus that holds sway among the populace and feeds on their decades-old aspiration for true change in Philippine society. The National Democratic Front-Southern Mindanao states its position on the reactionary GRP elections: That the Filipino masses should bear no illusion that the elections will bring about thoroughgoing change in our semi-feudal and semi-colonial society, and that only the People's Democratic Revolution is our way to genuine liberation and national development.
MILF vows neutrality in May polls in Mindanao (tags)
The EPCC NEWS gathered from news sources from Cotabato City that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has reiterated its apolitical stand in the May 10 elections, warning that violators will be dealt with under its own judicial system. “So far, there is no report of violation from the MILF hierarchy and its armed forces regarding the directive,” MILF peace negotiator Ali “Jun” Mantawil told the Inquirer in a roundtable discussion with Inquirer Mindanao on Saturday.
More Army troops deployed to W. Visayas to crush Reds (tags)
PESANTE NEWS learned today from media sources from Cebu City that the Army has deployed more troops in Western Visayas, just months before the June 2010 deadline set by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to strategically defeat the communist-led insurgency. The Army's 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) based in Jamindan town, Capiz on Monday formally deployed 190 soldiers to units on the islands of Negros, Panay and parts of Mindanao, 3ID public information officer 1st Lt. Mark Andrew Posadas said in a statement.
BAD OMEN FOR THE ELECTIONS, Pimentel: Garci boys intact, promoted (tags)
PESANTE NEWS learned today through media sources in Manila that the “Garci” boys were never kicked out. They even got promoted. Garci Boys are the officials of the COMELEC involved in widespread cheating during elections in the Philippines. Elections Chair Jose Melo should fulfill his promise to “ground” officials implicated in rigging the 2004 and 2007 polls, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. said Wednesday.
Palparan's vow to attack unarmed and vulnerable targets is cowardice -- NDF-Southern Minda (tags)
The EPCC news learned today through media sources that the NDF-Mindanao condemns the butcher general Jovito Palparan, Jr. had pronounced last year that he will bring his anti-communism crusade in Davao City especially during the election period. Now with only a month to go before the reactionary GRP election kicks off, expect Palparan's open and dirty war against progressive party-lists, individuals, groups and their supporters to be unleashed.
Filipino Bishop notes ‘ominous’ signs for May 10 Presidential polls (tags)
With the imported counting machines have been arriving in trickles, government websites have been hacked with relative ease, and the crucial task of educating the voters seems to have fallen on the shoulders—and gyrating hips—of the Sex Bomb Dancers. EPCC NEWS learned today that an outspoken Filipino leader of the Catholic Church cited these observations as “ominous” signs that the country’s first automated elections in May may be headed for disaster.
NDF-Mindanao Hits AFP's "Four Aces" (tags)
Pesante News today learned that the National Democratic Front of the Philippines in Southern Mindanao hits the reactionary Philippine Army's stresses for 2010 calling them mere euphemism for a more vicious campaign against the Filipino people and the revolutionary movement. The fascist Philippine Army's recently pronounced four ACEs -- Army's Concern for the Environment, Army's Concern for Engineering, Army's Combat Excellence and Advocacy for Credible Elections -- is only a preliminary propaganda purveyed by its chief, the notorious Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit. Bangit, the most favored among Ms. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's bootlicking generals, is groomed to replace current AFP chief of staff Gen. Victor Ibrado. Bangit from PMA Class 1978is now posturing himself to strengthen his bid for the AFP's highest position and dispel well-founded views that he will be playing a crucial role in perpetuating Mrs. Arroyo in power. His first attempt is to deodorize his unit's notorious record of human rights violations and electoral fraud. Despite Bangit's putting-his-best-foot-forward move, the Filipino people smell the stink of the Philippine Army's four ACEs. Its ballyhooed Advocacy for Credible Elections is nothing but a machination by the reactionary AFP to push its devious game plan of ensuring Mrs. Arroyo's victory in the upcoming GRP elections and continue her hold on power.
Arroyo's Plan to Consolidate Power (tags)
We condemn the US-Arroyo regime's devious declaration to dismantle "private armies" in the country when in truth this only aims to strengthen loyal private armies which it can benefit from and to dismantle those of the opposition's, thus consolidating its hold on power and giving itself greater leverage in the coming national elections. The most notorious of private armies in Mindanao are those which delivered, through terrorism, the much needed votes in the last two national elections, which won Arroyo a six-year term. The biggest of which is that of the Ampatuan warlord.
Filipino farmers’ nation-wide march for Land Reform to kick off Jan. 10 (tags)
A nationwide protest march to highlight President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s alleged string of heinous crimes against farmers will kick off in Mindanao on January 10 and end in Manila on January 22, in time for the 23rd anniversary of the Mendiola Massacre, a partylist lawmaker said on Saturday. PESANTE NEWS learned today that Anakpawis partylist Representative Rafael Mariano said the nationwide farmers’ caravan was only an “opening salvo of sustained mass actions for this year leading to the end of the anti-peasant, corrupt, and fascist Arroyo administration.” Nationwide March for Land Reform “The nationwide march and caravan of farmers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will highlight Ms Arroyo’s string of heinous crimes against farmers, from wide-scale land-grabbing, brazen human rights violations, and unabashed plunder of agricultural funds, among others,” Mariano said in a statement.
174,000 still in Maguindanao evacuation centers (tags)
174,000 still in Maguindanao evacuation centers Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 00:15:00 12/22/2009 Filed Under: rebellion, Armed conflict, Evacuation(General) DATU PIANG, Maguindanao—Johana Maluba, 24, is not sure if she could be back to her home to give birth before the end of the month. The mother of four is one of the 174,370 persons or 38,874 families referred to by humanitarian agencies as internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Maguindanao. The IDPs are scattered around the 103 evacuation centers. They fled their homes when fighting between government soldiers and Moro Islamic Liberation Front forces broke out August last year. It was not clear, however, how many evacuated following the Nov. 23 massacre of 57 civilians, including 31 journalists, in Ampatuan town, allegedly led by Datu Unsay town Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. The incident led to the weeklong imposition of martial law in the province. Some of the evacuees, those who fled their homes in Shariff Aguak after the massacre, are living with relatives, while others have set up camps in nearby towns. For the evacuees, it is safer to be away from home. “I am afraid to go back to our own house because we might get caught in crossfire,” Maluba said as she waited in line for the relief goods being distributed by the Act for Peace, a humanitarian organization. Diosita Andot, chair of Act for Peace, said their main intervention for the Maguindanao evacuees remains focused on “early recovery and rehabilitation program.” She said several core shelters have been constructed for families whose houses were razed in last year’s fighting. Presidential Assistant for Mindanao Secretary Jesus Dureza, who also joined the distribution of relief assistance, tried to convince evacuees to go home. “It is now safe to go back to your own homes,” he told them. But Dureza said not all could be given a house and that the relief assistance “is just temporary and you cannot be given every day, so it’s a must that you go home and start making a living.” Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, chief of the Military’s Eastern Mindanao Command, assured the evacuees that the police and military would respect the ceasefire with the MILF. “We will work to restore your normal lives,” he said.
WHOSE COUNTRY IS IT ANYWAY? (tags)
After 11 years of peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the two sides were close to a deal known as the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain. This was essentially an agreement that would have granted points of autonomy to the Moro people in Mindanao and the Southern Philippines. Just before the signing, the government stopped the negotiations on Sept. 3 and plunged into attack mode. They launched joint police-military offensives against the MILF and civilians. Since then, more than 500,000 people, mostly women and children, have been forced to abandon homes and thrown into refugee camps. Now, one-third of the Philippines is on the verge of erupting into open warfare. I'm not talking about your garden variety guerilla skirmishes here and there. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front and their allies have proven capable of launching conventional maneuvers into the theater in the past. Add to that milieu the very vibrant Communist led New People's Army Southern Command and of course the reactionary group Abu Sayyaf - then you have a situation that could explode into a conflict that could rival the Balkans in the 90's.
Now it can be told: Martial Law a desperate attempt to exonerate AFP/PNP, US-Arroyo Regime (tags)
ThePESANTE NEWS today learned that the Armed Forces of the Philippines's posturing as hero in the aftermath of the Ampatuan massacre is hypocritical in the face of hidden arms caches found in the Ampatuan warlord's mansions and vast properties. These military-owned high-powered rifles, ammunition, and war materiel are evidence that pin the devious collusion between the Ampatuan warlord clan, their mercenaries in the AFP top brass, and the Arroyo family. Faced with mounting nationwide anger that could lead to an Oust Gloria reprisal, the Arroyo regime imposed Martial Law in Maguindanao in a desperate attempt to exonerate itself from the culpability of arming, backing, and using political warlords and their private armies in its counter-revolutionary schemes. It is ironic for 601st Infantry Brigade-AFP commander Col. Leo Ferrer, in the midst of the martial law hullabaloo, to warn Ampatuan supporters and CVOs of the military's capability to launch tactical offensives if the latter remains unwilling to be disarmed.
COMMUNITY FORUM AND MEMORIAL MEETING HELD , DEC 8 at FACLA (tags)
Scores of Filipino Americans and their American allies held a solemn memorial meeting to remember the 64 victims of the Maguindanao Massacre last November 23, 2009 last Tuesday night on December 8, 2009 at the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA), 1740 W. Temple St. Los Angeles, CA 90026 In a candle light vigil, the 64 people who were killed in the most gruesome massacre in the most recent Philippine History last November 23, 2009 in Ampatuan, Maguindanao among them 31 media people were memorialized .
Philippine Govt creating a climate of fear to put country under Martial law (tags)
Philippine Democratic Left Parties statements regarding Ampatuan Massacre and the declaration of Martial Law in Maguindanao
Philippines: Abduction and killings of journalists and politicians must be investigated (tags)
A group of about 45 people (latest news figure is now 57) were ambushed and abducted by about 100 armed men, according to reports. The military recovered the bodies of 13 women and eight men—some of them mutilated.
The War in Afghanistan and its Implications in the Philippines (tags)
For the Alliance-Philippines, the escalating US-War in Afghanistan has a very special implication to the revolutionary movement in the Philippines. It is not only because there are 5 million Muslims in the Philippines, but also because there is an existing civil war in the Philippines centered in the 2nd largest island of Mindanao. It also indirectly affects the Filipino community abroad as in North America specially here in the United States. The existing civil war between the MILF with the Philippine government and the NPA has dragged on for more than 37 years. It just intensifies in varying degrees in between negotiations; ceasefires and changes in the US supported regimes. The civil war that started when President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law in 1972 has claimed more than 30,000 lives, and at present affected more than 2 million people and 650,000 refugees in Mindanao.
Wage all-out struggle against US forces in Mindanao--NDF/Ka Oris (tags)
The National Democratic Front-Mindanao (NDF-Mindanao) today issued a call urging all revolutionary forces in Mindanao "to wage an all-out struggle against the deployment and intervention of American soldiers in the internal armed conflict in the Philippines." NDF-Mindanao spokesperson Jorge Madlos ("Ka Oris") issued the call in response to the statement by US Defense Secretary Robert Gates that the US will continue to involve itself in the "counter-insurgency" war in the Philippines which would include heightened support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Peace now, Resume the Peace Talks, Now! (tags)
The Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (AJLPP) with the five million strong Filipino American community in the United States wrote to you in the interest of true justice and lasting peace in the Philippines. The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) expresses its alarm and consternation on the recent developments on the peace talks between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). We are greatly troubled that the Philippines have never known a period of relative peace since 1972 when the US-Marcos dictatorship waged war against the New People’s Army (NPA and the National Democratic Front (NDF) and the Moro people represented by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) until it surrendered in 1996 and then by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Up to now Mindanao is a battle ground with more 2.6 million people affected by the war and more or less 750,000 war refugees in Central Mindanao and elsewhere.
STOP THE WAR IN MINDANAO! (tags)
The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) in the United States strongly condemns the blantant display of callousness the US-Arroyo Regime on this matter of the highest humanitarian concern wherein more than 2 million people both Moro and Christian population are affected due to the escalating war in Mindanao.
Pagpalalaya kay Vagni, Pasikat ni Gloria; Itigl ang Gyera sa Mindanao (tags)
" Pag-gusto, magagawan ng paraan, pag-ayaw-maraming dahilan." Hindi naman pagtakhan ang mabilis na pagpapalaya sa diumano ay hostage ng mga bandidong Abu-Sayff kay Eugenio Vagni ng ICRC sa Sulu kahapon, Hulyo 11. Ang bihag na myembro ng Red Cross ay hostage ng mga rebelde sa loob ng mahigit na anim na buwan. Ang Sulu at karating nito ang diin ng Exercise Balikatan ng US at RP ganoon din ng malawakang anti-teroristang operasyon mula pa noong 2002. Para sa Pesante-USA, grupong pangkarapatang pantao at suporta sa magsasakang Pilipino sa US - ang pagkakapalaya kay Vagni ay pagpapasikat ng rehimeng US-Arroyo sa pagbisita ng CIA Chief Leon Panetta sa Maynila ngayong linggo. Hindi na mahalaga kung nagbayad sila ng milyon o anuman. Ngunit malinaw ang sabwatan ng AFP at ng mga grupong ito na nangugulo sa Mindanao.
AJLPP CONDEMNS THE SERIES OF INDISCRIMINATE BOMBINGS IN THE PHILIPPINES (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States, and the Filipino-American Community expressed outrage over the series of bombing in the Southern Philippines. The AJLPP express grave concern that the July 5-6 bombings in Mindanao may spread to the other urban centers like Manila. We squarely lay the blame to the US-Arroyo regime and her subalterns in the military who may be behind these barbaric bombings. This is the same scenario staged by the US-Marcos regime when it declared martial law in 1972. Although the perpetrators like to appear that the targets of the bombings are Catholic Cathedrals, Christian population centers and points to the MILF, Abu Sayyaff (ASG) or JI-Al Queda, the Filipino people suspects that the military is behind the bombings as elucidated by ISAFP Sgt. Vidal Doble.
Activist Doctor killed in Mindanao (tags)
Epidemiologist Dr. Rogelio Peñera was killed because of his activism, his colleagues insisted on Saturday. Dr. Jonathan Placido, chair of the Alliance of Health Workers (AHW), said Peñera had rallied people in the sector against issues that threatened their welfare and the delivery of health services to the poor. Peñera was driving home with his daughter on Wednesday night when he was ambushed near his home in Cabantian village here. He died from multiple bullet wounds in the head and body, while his daughter suffered minor injuries.
AFP MIG AGENTS TAGGED IN TEACHER'S KILLING (tags)
The leader of the NPA in Mindanao has accused four agents of the Military Intelligence Group (MIG) of the armed forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command of perpetrating the torture and murder of his daughter. Leoncio Pitao, alias Commander Parago of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Southern Mindanao, said his daughter, Rebelyn, 20 and an elementary school teacher, was abducted, tortured and murdered by the four MIG agents. Pitao identified the four in an interview in his hideout somewhere in Paquibato District as Ben Tipait, Aldan Sulao, Helvin Bitang and Pedring Pedregosa.
Pagpatay kay Rebelyn Pitao-bagong utang na dugo ng mga Pasistang Kriminal (tags)
buong lakas na kinokondena ng AJLPP ang pasistang kriminal na rehimng US-Arroyo at ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at ang paniktik nito sa pangghasa, pandarahas at walang awing pagpatay kay Rebelyn Pitao, anak na babae ni NPA Kumander Leoncio Pitao- Kumnader Parago ng NPA sa Mindanao. Si Rebelyn Pitao ay dinukot at walang –awang pinatay matapos gahasain noong 6:30 ng gabi ng Miyerkoles habang pauwi sa kanilang bahay sa Bago Gallera. Ang kanyang bangkay ay natagpuang lumulutang sa ilog ng Carmen, Davao Del Sur may mahigit na 24 oras matapos siyang dukutin ng militar.
MILF SETS CONDITIONS FOR PEACE TALKS (tags)
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has set its conditions for the resumption of the GRP-MILF Peace talks in the coming new year-2009. The AJLPP sources learned that based on the an earlier decision by the MILF Central Committee and Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, issued the statement on December 26, 2008. Murad said the MILF is “open to resume the ‘collapsed’ or stalled” peace negotiations with the Philippine government.
MILF OFFICIAL STAND ON PEACE TALKS WITH GRP (tags)
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has announced its official stand on the resumption of the GRP-MILF Peace. The AJLPP sources learned that based on the an earlier decision promulgated by the its Central Committee, Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, issued the statement on December 26, 2008. Murad said the MILF is “open to resume the ‘collapsed’ or stalled” peace negotiations with the Philippine government. This in deference to the call of both the local and international communities to resume the talks and stop the fighting and to the standing policy of the MILF that the track of peace and negotiation is the “most practical and civilized way of solving the age-old Moro Problem and armed conflict in Mindanao.”
BISHOPS-ULAMA CONFERENCE CALLS FOR PEACE TALKS IN THE PHILIPPINES (tags)
The Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC), yesterday called on the government and the MILF to immediately resume the stalled peace talks. The BUC made the call in a joint statement it issued during the three-day 35th General Assembly in Jolo, Sulu, which ended Nov. 21. The joint statement was signed by Davao Archbishop Fernando Capalla; Hilario Gomez Jr., bishop emeritus of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP); and Dr. Hamid Barra of the Ulama League of the Philippines. “We appeal to let the peace talks between the GRP and the MILF continue, in whatever level or means possible, and let peace panels be convened as soon as the situation allows it,” the BUC said.
DESPITE ARROYO"S CHANGE IN SCHEDULES AJLPP RALLY/PICKET AT LAX SHERATON VS US-ARROYO (tags)
The ALLIANCE for a JUST and LASTING PEACE in the PHILIPPINES (AJLPP), ANSWER-LA and GABNET enjoins all freedom-loving activists to join us on Friday, November 21, 2008, 6 PM, to stage a picket and rally in front of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045, to protest the presence of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the US. And despite with some abrupt changes in schedules , the AJLPP with ANSWER-LA and Gabnet-LA will demand a stop to the US War on Terror in Mindanao, Stop the crackdown on the Progressive movement in the Philippines and Resume the Peace talks between the GRP and the MILF/NDFP
PESANTE CONFIRMS HR RIGHTS GROUP FINDINGS: Rights abuses continuing in RP (tags)
Pesante-USA, a Filipino American peasant , environmental and human rights advocacy groups confirmed thorough relaisble news sources that human rights abuses are continuing in the Philippines with 21 extrajudicial killings taking place in the third quarter of the year, a local rights monitor said Thursday. Pesante reported that of the killings 19 took place on the restive southern island of Mindanao where the government is fighting Muslim and communist secessionist groups, substantiated and according to a report by Karapatan, an umbrella organization of human rights groups in the Philippines.
PICKET/RALLY AGAINST PGMA Nov. 21 in LA (tags)
The ALLIANCE for a JUST and LASTING PEACE in the PHILIPPINES (AJLPP), ANSWER-LA and GABNET enjoins all freedom-loving activists to join us on Friday, November 21, 2008, 6 PM, to stage a picket and rally in front of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045, to protest the presence of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the US. The AJLPP with ANSWER-LA and Gabnet-LA will demand a stop to the US War on Terror in Mindanao, Stop the crackdown on the Progressive movement in the Philippines and Resume the Peace talks between the GRP and the MILF/NDFP
AJLPP Hits US Filipino Puppets Defense of US Imperialist Intervention in the Philippines (tags)
The puppetry of US running dogs known no bound. The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) strongly condemns high handed brazen US intervention particularly in Mindanao, which is legal, according to a contingent of the Legislative Oversight on the Visiting Forces Agreement (Lovfa) of both chambers of Congress.
PHILIPPINES: Suspend US Military Deployments to Mindanao (tags)
A broad coalition of NGOs, social movements, and political parties from Mindanao and the rest of the country today called for all US military deployments in Mindanao suspended pending the conclusion of a fair and thorough probe by lawmakers.
Philippine Government Launches New War on Muslim Groups (tags)
War officially came to southern Philippines again as the government of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo unilaterally put an end to eleven years of negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) September 3. A month early the government abruptly broke off talks with the MILF on the eve of signing an autonomy pact. There are numerous reports of U.S. Special Forces accompanying Philippines Army units on their deadly sweeps in the Bangsamoro (land of the Moro people) region. More than 100 people have been killed so far and half a million refugees have fled from the fighting. Bourgeois liberals and the petty-bourgeois left lamely call on the government to resume the “peace process,” which in any case was only intended to wear down the insurgents. Revolutionaries instead seek to mobilize Philippine workers to drive out all U.S. forces, whatever their legal status; to force the withdrawal of the AFP from the contested southern areas; and to defend the Bangsamoro people and their right to self-determination.
US BLAMED FOR MINDANAO WAR (tags)
With more than 500,000 people in Northern and Central Mindanao as war refugees due to the AFP and MILF fighting, the Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) placed the blame on the United States for intervening in the Mindanao Conflict. As of the press time, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) based in Geneva, Switzerland have confirmed that more than 500,000 war refugees were affected by the current fighting in the two Lanao provinces, Cotabato and Davao provinces, Maguindanao and Saranggani due to the escalation of the conflict The AJLPP pointed out; “ If the United States did not advised President Arroyo to negotiate and affirm the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain without transparent consultations with all concerned parties, the situation will not turn from bad to worse.
AJLPP CONDEMNS US INTERVENTION IN MINDANAO (tags)
With more than 500,000 people in Northern and Central Mindanao due to the AFP and MILF fighting, the Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) placed the blame on the United States for intervening in the Mindanao Conflict. As of the press time, another the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) based in Geneva, Switzerland have confirmed that more than 500,000 war refugees were affected by the current fighting in the two Lanao provinces, Cotabato and Davao provinces, Maguindanao and Saranggani due to the escalation of the conflict The AJLPP pointed out; “ that if the United States did not advised President Arroyo to negotiate and affirm the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain without transparent consultations with all concerned parties, the situation will not turn from bad to worse.
KASAYSAYAN NG PANG-AAGAW NG LUPA SA MGA NINUNO NG MGA MAMAMAYANG MORO (tags)
Ang artikulong ito ay inillathala ng Pesante-USA upang itaguyod ang karapatan sa sariling pagpapasya ng mga mamamayang Moro sa Mindanao. Ito ay nalathala sa internet noong Set.7, 2008. Sa amin ang sariling salin at editing)
The National Democratic Front (NDF) in Southern Mindanao hits the Arroyo regime for feigning innocence and doublespeak while covertly sponsoring the resurgence of vigilante groups like the notorious Ilaga, now called the Reform Ilaga Movement. Mike Santiago, spokesperson of the Reform Ilaga Movement, recently announced they will heed the call of North Cotabato Vice Governor Emmanuel Piñol of "restraining themselves from intervening in the already worse situation in Mindanao but would immediately take action once civilians are attacked by members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)." Ilaga, civilian volunteers' organization and police auxiliaries will be trained as fanatic fascist frontliners of the Arroyo regime. These groups will be used to wreak havoc not only against members of the MILF and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-NDF (CPP-NPA-NDF), but more against the Bangsamoro people, indigenous peoples and settlers in Mindanao.
US troops’ stay questioned, (tags)
They are supposed to be only visitors, but after six years they are still around and some local officials are wondering whether they are already part of the Filipino family. Officially, they are called the “visiting forces” but there has been no sign that American soldiers are leaving anytime soon and the officials are asking why the “visit” seems to have become a permanent deployment. Vice Mayor Mannix Dalipe says the Arroyo administration and the Philippine military have to explain why American troops are still in Zamboanga City. “No one is giving us answers,” Dalipe said in an interview the other day.
The US-Arroyo regime is responsible for the death and damages caused by the war in Mindana (tags)
-The people must concentrate their anger and condemnation on the US-Arroyo regime as directly responsible on the deaths and damages of the people in Mindanao caused by the escalation of the armed clashes between the AFP and the MILF. The problem can be rooted to the US-dictated two pronged militarist policy of the regime which is the all-out war against the revolutionary movement led by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) while neutralizing the Moro seccessionist movement of the MILF thru a deceptive and bogus peace process to finish the revolutionary movement in 2010. The militarist clique in the Arroyo regime never expected that the Memorandum of Agreement on the Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) will ignite the chaos and war in Mindanao. This secret and hasty deal resulted to violent reaction and opposition from the pro and anti-Arroyo reactionary camp and the fake president will even face impeachment because of violations of the constitution. Arroyo got the worst fear of losing her warlord allies in Mindanao that helped her cheat the 2004 elections. Her ulterior motive of using the MOA-AD as a stepping stone for charter change (cha-cha) to remain in Malacanang was also exposed. The MILF's disgust and anger have basis when it was proven that the Arroyo regime is not sincere in the peace talks and on the agreement on ancestral domain and instead used these as a trap to demobilized and surrender of MILF.
US-Arroyo Regime Policy of "All Out Peace" Means "All Out War". (tags)
With profound sadness and most serious concern, the Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP through its West Coast Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia expresses dismay over the fate of the peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine Government. The AJLPP views President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo recent orders of a "thorough review" of all government peace initiatives after dissolving the panel negotiating with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), as bad faith, lacking in political will and a traditional display of political opportunism The AJLPP is alarmed by the growing number of people affected by the conflict. AJLPP sources have confirmed that more than 487,000 people have been dislocated by the ongoing military offensives in Northern and Central Mindanao. More than 200 soldiers and MILF fighters as well as civilians have been killed in the month old conflict.
STOP THE MILITARY OFFENSIVES, RESUME PEACE TALKS NOW! (tags)
The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) expresses serious concern on the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) warned of a full-blown war with the peace process “in purgatory” after the government told the Supreme Court on Friday that a Moro homeland deal had been scrapped. The AJLPP also are very wary about reports that more than 400,000 people in Mindanao have been affected or dislocated by the heavy fighting as Ramadan sets in. MILF chief negotiator Mohaqher Iqbal told Reuters news agency that the MILF was no longer confident it could strike a final peace agreement under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration. “We might as well wait for the next president after the 2010 elections,” Iqbal said. “She is just trying to save her own neck. That’s why she was not willing to defend the peace agreement and was also willing to sacrifice everything just to stay in power.”
FIGHTING CONTINUES AS RAMADAN BEGINS (tags)
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Sunday warned of a full-blown war with the peace process “in purgatory” after the government told the Supreme Court on Friday that a Moro homeland deal had been scrapped. MILF chief negotiator Mohaqher Iqbal told Reuters news agency that the MILF was no longer confident it could strike a final peace agreement under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration.
PESANTE-USA WARNS AGAINST BUILD-UP OF ARROYO'S BROWN SHIRTS (tags)
The Philippine Peasant Support Network (Pesante)-USA, a Filipino peasant, human rights and environmental advocacy group based in Los Angeles strongly warned of the US-Arroyo regime scheme of taking advantage of the current troubles in Mindanao to build up its local version of Hitler's Brown Shirts. Pesante is one with the Amnesty International (AI) and many religious groups in the Philippines who are warning the public and the whole world at these vigilante groups which are recycled ILAGAS (known as the Ilonggo landgrabbers Association) who are known anti-Moro vigilante groups before martial law was declared will only aggravate the armed conflict in Mindanao.
Frustrate Arroyo's Cha-cha and All out War (tags)
By declaring all-out military offensive against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front days after unravelling moves to amend the GRP Constitution, Gloria Arroyo has thoroughly exposed her shameless ambition to perpetuate herself in power. Militarization and federalism will not solve the problems of Mindanao and the Moro people; they will only aggravate them. Arroyo and her minions attempt to play their cards well. They try to up the sagging morale of AFP troops after losing to many tactical offensives by the New People's Army by now chest-beating against the MILF and its commanders.
AJLPP CONDEMNS US INTERVENTION IN MINDANAO (tags)
“We want peace now, stop the Philippine military offensives in Mindanao.” The Alliance-Philippines strongly demanded that the US-Arroyo regime stop all military offensives in Mindanao and return to negotiations. The AJLPP also condemned the US armed intervention in Mindanao. This as the number of war refugees swelled up to 300,000 from 210,000 in two weeks as the conflict escalates. The AJLPP also supports the stand of Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo that “arming civilians would not help the government’s efforts to restore peace in southern Philippines. He said, “We are against it, because violence can never be a solution. It will not solve the problem,”
AJLPP Calls for The Resumption of Peace Talks, Warns of US Intervention (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) reiterates its call for the US-Arroyo regime and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to resume peace talks and go back to the negotiations in the light of heavy fighting in the south that displaced almost 170,000 people. The AJLPP also views with deep concern the unseen hand of US intervention. News about US military forces helping AFP troops in their operations against the MILF is disconcerting. The prouncements of US Ambassador Kristie Kenney that feigns innocence over US involvement is also unsettling.
AFP orders Military Offensive Vs MILF, Fighting Escalates in Mindanao (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) reiterates its call for the US-Arroyo regime and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to resume peace talks and go back to the negotiations in the light of heavy fighting in the south. The AJLPP expressed concern about the escalation of violence and fighting in the South as the President ordered the military to “defend every inch of the Philippine territory and condemns the treacherous and sneaky attacks by the MILF” in Mindanao.
Mindanao Bishops, MILF: pursue peace process, call for ceasefire (tags)
The Mindanao Bishops and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) reiterated their commitment to pursue the realm of peace, justice, solidarity and development as well as the peaceful resolution of the Mindanao conflict and Bangsamoro problem through the ongoing peace process between the government and MILF. “The MILF and the Bishops reiterate unwavering moral commitment to pursue the path to peace, solidarity, justice and development in Mindanao, and resolve and support to the continuation of the peace process between the MILF and the government until its successful conclusion is achieved,” stated in their Joint Communique’ issued after their peace dialogue held at the Archbishop’s Residence in Davao City on August 14, 2008.
STOP THE MILITARY OFFENSIVES, RESUME PEACE TALKS NOW! (tags)
he Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States calls on the US-Arroyo Regime to stop its military offensives against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) armed forces in the Central Mindanao areas and resume peace talks now. According to media sources from the Philippines, more than 160,000 people were affected by the fighting between the AFP and the MILF in six towns of central Mindanao. At least 60 AFP troops have been killed since the week-old fighting erupted.
STOP THE MILITARY OFFENSIVES, RESUME PEACE TALKS NOW! (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States calls on the US-Arroyo Regime to stop its military offensives against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) armed forces in the Central Mindanao areas and resume peace talks now. According to media sources from the Philippines, more than 160,000 people were affected by the fighting between the AFP and the MILF in six towns of central Mindanao. At least 60 AFP troops have been killed since the week-old fighting erupted.
STOP THE MILITARY OFFENSIVES IN MINDANAO! (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States calls on the US-Arroyo Regime to stop its military offensives against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) armed forces in the Central Mindanao areas and resume peace talks now. The US-Arroyo regime has no to blame and is responsible for all the troubles when it went into the motions of signing an aborted MOA on ancestral domain and tried to delayed the ARMM elections. The “grand scheme” of the US-Arroyo regime to change the constitution, federalize Mindanao by using the ARMM provision to effect change and perpetuate Arroyo’s illegitimate rule. The AJLPP vehemently condemns some elements among the opposition, the ruling class and the Catholic Church for whipping up anti-Muslim sentiments and a crusade for vigilantism against the unsigned MOA accord. More than 160,000 people have been affected by the fighting between the AFP and the MILF in six towns of central Mindanao.
Underground workers movement vs. DCWD, Franklin Baker (tags)
MILF attacks meant to push peace talks’ revival — AFP (tags)
A senior military official said the Muslim separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is stepping up attacks in Mindanao in a bid to pressure the government into restarting its stalled peace talks with the rebel group. Meanwhile, the MILF blames the AFP for the attacks. According to Regional Army chief Maj. Gen. Reymundo Ferrer, elements within the MILF want to put pressure on the government to resume the talks by launching the attacks.
15 Killed in AFP-NPA Clashes in Mindanao (tags)
Armed encounters between NPA bands and the AFP escalated yesterday in Mindanao. AFP sources said soldiers from the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion, 42nd Military Intelligence Company supported by the Regional Mobile Police Group and the local police were pursuing New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who simultaneously attacked the police stations in Dapa and Gen. Luna towns in Surigao del Sur province on Saturday night.
No to military offensive in Mindanao (tags)
Bishops from the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC) yesterday cautioned the Arroyo government on engaging in an all-out military offensive against the Muslim rebels and bandits in Mindanao, saying such action could have repercussions on the “peace-building” efforts of the inter-religious groups in the region. “Conflicts cannot be resolved simply by military might. Conflicts can be solved by mutual understanding,” CBCP president Angel Lagdameo said during the 12th Asia Pacific Policy Forum on the “Role of Youth in Peace Building” held yesterday at the Australian Embassy at RCBC Plaza in Makati City. The event was attended by Australian officials led by Ambassador Rod Smith, student leaders, CBCP president Lagdameo, CBCP chairman on Inter-Religious dialog Antonio Ledesma, members of academe and non-government organizations.
AJLPP Applauds National Transport strike: A Success (tags)
AJLPP congratulates the striking Filipino jeepney drivers from the militant PISTON group in the Philippines Monday that crippled public transportation in some cities in Southern Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON, United Organization of Drivers and Operators Nationwide) called the strike to demand the scrapping of the expanded value-added tax (E-VAT) on oil products and of the oil deregulation law.
Tensions in Mindanao seen to rise as peacekeepers pull out (tags)
Malaysian peacekeepers began a phased withdrawal from the Philippines' troubled south on Saturday, raising worries that decades of Muslim rebellion in the mainly Catholic nation may resume. Twenty-eight of 41 Malaysian soldiers and police officers were picked up by two army transport planes at three points on the southern island of Mindanao and flown to a base in the Malaysian province of Sabah. The remnants of the 60-member International Monitoring Team (IMT), including 10 soldiers from Brunei, eight from Libya and a Japanese development worker, were expected to pack their bags and go home by the end of August.
More US soldiers to arrive in Sulu province (tags)
More US troops are expected to arrive soon in the Philippines to support hundreds already deployed in the southern part of the country aiding Filipino soldiers in battling terrorism. At least 30 soldiers, part of the Guam Army National Guards’ First Battalion under the 294th Infantry Regiment, are heading to support “Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines,” the Guam-based Mariana’s Variety newspaper reported Wednesday.
RP ‘surprised’ at Malaysia monitors’ pullout (tags)
he Philippines on Tuesday said it was surprised at Malaysia’s decision to end its monitoring mission to the troubled southern Mindanao island this year. The government’s chief peace adviser Jesus Dureza said he had just finished a trip to Kuala Lumpur and officials there had given “no indication of any announcement of total withdrawal.” “I feel that we, as neighbors, should be working very closely for peace,” Dureza said. “I am confident that Malaysia will be with us all the way.”
Delay in peace talks deliberate, says MILF (tags)
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the largest Muslim separatist rebel group in the country, accused Manila on Wednesday of delaying the peace talks. Manila is negotiating peace with the MILF, an army of about 12,000 rebels with millions of Muslim supporters. Peace talks were stalled after both sides failed to sign an agreement on the Muslim ancestral domain.
We in the Sisters' Association in Mindanao, an aggrupation of some 360 nuns coming from more than 40 congregations in Mindanao, renew our call for Mrs. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to step down. We have been unequivocal in the past. We continue to be unwavering in spite of the perceptible absence of a uniting spirit within the Church. But we are inspired by the Church as people of God where the Spirit permeates to bring about righteousness and morality in governance and in our communal life.
Moro group hits GMA’s ‘timeline’ to end rebellion in Mindanao (tags)
A ranking official of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Central Committee has criticized President Arroyo for her recent speech at the local Peace and Security Assembly in Mindanao where she reiterated her 2010 “timeline to end armed rebellion” in the region without specifically stating the current government-MILF peace process as the main component.
This review highlights the global positioning of discourses/writing on the Filipino diaspora, given the neocolonial and subjugated situation of Filipino migrants, exiles, refugees, etc. in the planet. Unless this subordination to U.S. imperial hegemony is acknowledged and the revolutionary resistance to it recognized, any reflection on the condition of the Filipino/the Philippines is only a Hollywood fantasy, if not a bad case of incurable self-delusion.
3,000 lumikas sa Surigao (tags)
Napagalaman ngayon ng AJLPP na lumulubha ang mga paglabag sa karapatang pantao sa Mindanao lalong lalo na sa mga probnsya ng Surigao at Davao. Umaabot na sa halos 3,000 magsasaka an lumikas mula sa 12 komunidad ng Surigao de Sur habang nagpapatuloy ang mga operasyon militar ng mga pwersa ng Eastern Mindanao Comman laban sa Bagong Hukbong Bayan Ayon sa Karapatan-Surigao del Sur Chapter, aabutan na ng Pasko ang mga bakwit sa mga sentro ng ebakwasyon dahil sa mga operasyong militar sa mga bayan ng Lianga, San Agustin, San Miguel, Cagwait at Tago na nagsimula noon pang huling bahagi ng Oktubre.
Mllitary Operations in Mindanao (tags)
Nearly 3,000 tribespeople have fled their mountain homes in the southern Philippines as the military stepped up an offensive against insurgents of the communist New People's Army (NPA), officials and church leaders said on Monday. Modesto Villasanta, a Roman Catholic priest and leader of a local human rights group, said he feared a humanitarian crisis if military operations continue to displace Manobo tribes from 11 communities in a province on Mindanao island.
AJLLP CALLS FOR A JUST AND LASTING PEACE IN MINDANAO (tags)
The Alliance for A Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (AJLPP) –USA reiterates its call for a stop on the ongoing war in Mindanao. The AJLPP through its National Coordinator Mario Santos today vehemently condemns the lack of sincerity on the part of the US-Arroyo regime in pursuing the peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the National Democratic Front (NDF).
US-Arroyo’s Double Talk: Talking Peace, Waging War (tags)
The Alliance for A Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (AJLPP) –USA express its serious and deep concern over the ongoing war in Mindanao the Philippine armed forces in Basilan and Sulu is waging that have claimed more than 100 lives in three separate clashes since the second week of July.
ARROYO REVS UP SULU OFFENSIVE (tags)
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Saturday remained steadfast to her administration’s all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf group and other rogue elements accused of beheading 10 of the 14 Marines who died in a July 10 firefight in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. Mrs Arroyo said the war in Mindanao, which so far claimed the lives of 25 soldiers and wounded 10 others, is not an act of vengeance but a strategy to win peace," against those who spread “mayhem" and “bloodsport" in the South. “We cannot allow terrorists to hold the South hostage to their agenda of mayhem and bloodsport," she said.
AFP chief gives green light for Basilan offensive (tags)
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr. issued an order yesterday to the troops currently on standby in Basilan to commence military operations in the island province. “It’s all systems go. The units can now start punitive actions against the perpetrators. The orders have been given,” said AFP Public Information Office (PIO) chief Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, referring to military actions against those behind the beheading of the 10 Marines during the July 10 ambush in Tipo-Tipo. Brig. Gen. Juancho Sabban, deputy chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom), was designated to head the newly formed Task Force Meteor aimed at capturing the group responsible for the ambush.
MILF: We know General Garcia well (tags)
Commenting on the appointment of retired General Rodolfo Garcia as the new government chief peace negotiator, Muhammad Ameen, chairperson of the MILF Secretariat, said: “We know him very well from his stint as Army officer in Central Mindanao up to his becoming a member of the government peace panel.
Mammoth electoral fraud in Philippines elections: Padding and shaving (tags)
Nearly three weeks after election day, there are still no definitive results for the Philippine elections to the Senate and House of Representatives. Counting is still continuing and in a number of provinces it has not even begun. This has nothing to do with inefficiency and everything to do with ballot-rigging. The Philippines is one of the most corrupt ‘democracies’ in the world. During the 2004 presidential election, the victory of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was widely attributed to large-scale fraud. A tape was massively circulated of a conversation between the President and Virgilio Garcillano, head of Comelec, the national election commission. Arroyo was heard addressing him familiarly, ‘Hello Garci’, and the election chief proudly assured her that he would guarantee her a million-vote majority.
The Philippine Midterm Elections, an indictment vs. Mrs. Arroyo (tags)
Manila-- The circus that is the recent Philippine midterm elections was an indictment of how Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo "won" her presidency in the last 2004 elections and punctuated her government's acute isolation from the Filipino masses. The 12-0 illusion of Arroyo's Team Unity administration coalition delivered for the people more violence and systematic fraud. The regime's fraud machinery in Mindanao (the hocus-pocus site of the 2004 presidential elections in favor of Arroyo) was apparently exposed in how the recent elections were conducted most especially in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where bribe money, patronage politics were the rules of the game, ably presided by fraud operators and protectors sitting in the highest echelons in Comelec at the national and local levels.
The Philippine Midterm Elections, an indictment vs. Mrs. Arroyo (tags)
The circus that is the recent Philippine midterm elections was an indictment of how Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo "won" her presidency in the last 2004 elections and punctuated her government's acute isolation from the Filipino masses. The 12-0 illusion of Arroyo's Team Unity administration coalition delivered for the people more violence and systematic fraud. The regime's fraud machinery in Mindanao (the hocus-pocus site of the 2004 presidential elections in favor of Arroyo) was apparently exposed in how the recent elections were conducted most especially in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where bribe money, patronage politics were the rules of the game, ably presided by fraud operators and protectors sitting in the highest echelons in Comelec at the national and local levels
Abu Sayyaf: The CIA’s Monster Gone Berserk (tags)
The Philippines is under watch by America’s “anti-terrorism” network. This is so not only because of the presence of active Moro and Marxist guerrillas but also because of its special concern on the Abu Sayyaf. In the ‘80s, just as it was waging its last surrogate wars against the Soviet Union, the U.S. was also engaged in new forms of covert operations -- the training of Islamic militants to fight the Russians in Afghanistan and elsewhere. A product of this war – the Abu Sayyaf – was once hailed by American presidents as a group of “freedom fighters.” It was an exaltation that would haunt them for years.
AFP attack planes mobilized; 12 killed in NPA-military clashes (tags)
The area command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has mobilized attack planes and gunship helicopters to extend air support to the combat battalions currently pursuing communist insurgents in Compostela Valley province and Davao Oriental. Clashes between government troops and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) left four soldiers and eight rebels dead, military officials yesterday said. Lt. Gen. Rodolfo Obaniana, AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command area chief, ordered Maj. Gen. Ernesto Boac, 10th Infantry Division (ID) commander, to use all available combat personnel and military bulldozers to “pin down” the communist rebels.
Philippine Govt rejects OIC on MNLF camps (tags)
The Philippines has rejected the request of the powerful Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC)—the United Nations of Muslim majority countries, whose official observer for the Philippines is the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)—to give back to the MNLF’s Ustadz Habier Malik the two camps that government troops wrested from Malik on April 15. The OIC is helping all parties in the Mindanao conflicts keep the peace. Its richer members are pouring development aid into Mindanao and have pledged to invest billions to make Mindanao and the Filipino Muslims enjoy prosperity and modernization. Malik had issued a declaration of jihad (holy war) against the government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines after government troops overran his MNLF camps in retaliation for his group’s attack, using mortars, on a Marine base. Malik’s attack killed two Marines.
Elections in RP successful – US (tags)
A US State Department official said yesterday the May 14 elections were generally successful despite reports of violence and fraud. “I know there have been some problems with violence. But I would say overall the elections have been very successful and a real sign that the Philippines has a very well-developed democracy. It has never been an easy process,” Christopher Hill, US State Department assistant secretary for East Asia and the Pacific, said over Radyo ng Bayan. Hill’s observation followed an earlier statement of concern from the US Embassy in Manila on reports of violence in many parts of the country during the elections.
GMANews.tv: RP Failed to Redeem Self from 2004 Scandal - Int’l Observers (tags)
The Philippine government failed to redeem itself from suspicions that it "benefited" from such illegal practices in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in 2004 with rampant irregularities "allowed" in the region in the May 14 midterm polls. This was the conclusion reached by the People's International Observers' Mission (IOM), whose members admitted they are now questioning their belief that the Philippines is a democratic country. "What were very obvious and undeniable was that the government failed to redeem itself from the wide belief that it benefited from these illegal practices in Lanao del Sur in particular and the entire Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao in general in 2004," IOM said. “The Commission on Elections (Comelec), by sins of commission and omission, presided yet again over abominably chaotic elections."
PHILIPPINES: ON ELECTION DAY , GMA CHEATING MACHINE OPERATES (tags)
- The US-Arroyo Regime's Commission on Elections (Comelec) asked the two television networks ABS-CBN and GMA7 to stop the quick counts as they were “unauthorized.” The US-Arroyo regime was greatly alarmed that the quick count reports shpwed the opposition and the progressive party-list groups like GABRIELA and ANAKPAWIS are leading the exit polls and the quick count and are trashing the administration candidates all over the nation. The exit polls disprove the admisntration early "trending " results and spin that they will win hands down in Visayas and Mindanao. The quick count form the media oulets also confirmed the survey conducted by poll agencies like PULSE ASIA and the SWS that the opposition are heavily winning in all areas. At the press time, the Geneuine Opposition (G0) is winning by 8 spots and most of its candiates for senators are within the winning column of 12. While the most rabid GMA supporters like Mike Defensor and Chavi Singson are far, far behind.
AJLPP Condemns the Killing of Two Peasant Leaders/Attempted Massacre in Mindanao (tags)
The Alliance for Just anbd Lasting Peace (AJLPP) based in the United States vehemently condemn in the strongest terms possible the killing of two peasant leader in Davao and the wounding of three others in an attempted massacre in New Bataan, Davao in the island of Mindanao last April 26. Two members of a Davaol peasant group were shot dead and three others wounded in the southern Philippines, the media sources reported, Friday.
MILF-GRP Peace Talks Update ; MILF wants entire Kudarat- GRP (tags)
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is demanding the inclusion of the entire Sultan Kudarat province as part of a new autonomous region in Mindanao as a condition for a final peace agreement with the government, a ranking Malacañang official revealed yesterday.
Stop the war in Mindanao (tags)
Proof of MNLF coddling Jemaah Islamiah (JI) and Abu Sayyaf (ASG) terrorist groups must be presented; US Troops Out
Make Peace, Not War : Gary V, Bamboo ‘join’ MILF (tags)
Popular singer Gary Valenciano and rock band Bamboo have joined forces with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to deliver essential services to children in communities affected by conflict areas in Mindanao. Dubbed as the "Days of Peace" campaign, the two musical icons joined forces with the MILF in an effort to bring basic health services "to children affected by the "conflict with government forces. The program, which started last Monday, brought the MILF and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to allow government health workers to deliver health care services to some 707 barangays in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The MILF and UNICEF have designated three rounds of Days of Peace to immunize 30,000 infants, de-worming "of some 100,000 children, "Vitamin-A supplementation for some 240,000 children, and birth registration services in areas previously inaccessible to health workers due to armed conflict.
AJLPP-USA Denounced Indiscriminate AFP aerial bombing in Davao Del Norte, Mindanao (tags)
The Alliance for A Just and Lasting Peace (AJLPP) vehemently condemened the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for indiscriminately dropping bombs at Barangay Manay in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, damaging homes and banana fields and endangering the lives of residents who had to evacuate to safer grounds.
Kinondena ng AJLPP ang lumalawak na Interbensyong militar ng US sa Pilipinas (tags)
Mariin at matinding kinokondena ng AJLPP-USA ang ginawang pagkukubli sa iba't ibang paraan ng interbensyong militar ng US ang RP-US 2007 Balikatan military exercises na ginanap sa Sulu mula Pebrero 19 hanggang Marso 4. Nilahukan ito ng 400 US Marines at 1,500 tropa ng Philippine Army. Ayon sa AJLPP, ang Isang pinagsanib na tim mula sa militar ng US na kabilang sa Fusion Piston na nagkataon umanong lumahok din sa Balikatan ang nakipagpulong sa mga upisyal ng PNP sa Region 12 noong Marso 1 upang talakayin ang pagtutulungan umano nila sa pagsawata sa pagpupuslit ng iligal na droga sa karagatan ng Mindanao.
Philippine Marines sent to finish off ASG, JI in Sulu, Mindanao (tags)
A ranking military official disclosed that some of the 1st Marine Brigade battalions will be redirected to Sulu instead of Basilan province from Lanao to help in the pursuit against the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiah (JI) terrorists in the area. The switching of deployment between the Lanao-based marine and Basilan-based Army 103rd Infantry Brigade was recently ordered by Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.
The Ghosts of Bud Dajo return to Jolo, Sulu (tags)
Mindanao tales tells that whoever made or put the mysterious white “agong” in the small cave at the foot of Bud Daho remains a mystery to this day. The “agong” is a musical instrument which produces a single note when pounded with a mallet or a large drumstick. It is commonly used by many Asian tribes along with other native brass instruments and is largely associated with religious rituals or festivities. The people living near Bud Dajo even believe that the silver gong is enchanted and that nobody has dared take it away from its nesting place. The Bud Dajo massacre of 1906 IN villages near Bud Dajo (Mt. Dajo) in Jolo, Sulu, where over a thousand people died in a massacre by American forces over a hundred years ago, the sound of the puting agong has often been heard as a warning.
CIA, FBI, Aussie agents operating in south — AFP (tags)
Several American and Australian intelligence agents are in Mindanao to monitor terrorist activities, military sources here claimed yesterday. "Mindanao is crawling with CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) and even Australian federal agents," a source told The STAR.
Orchestrated Mindanao bombings to push ATB (tags)
The NDF condemns the recent bombings in key cities in Mindanao and highly suspects the war dogs of the Arroyo regime to be responsible for these atrocious acts.
AFP: Peace pact with MILF by April (tags)
A peace agreement with the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is expected early this year, Armed Forces chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr. disclosed yesterday. "A final peace agreement with the MILF would be signed by March or April," Esperon told a press conference held at the AFP Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters here. The contentious issues affecting the peace negotiations, particularly disputes over ancestral domain, are now being discussed by both panels, said Esperon, who arrived here as part of a series of camp visits to implement the second phase of President Arroyo’s campaign against insurgency.
Rehimeng US-Arroyo, nanguupat at naghahanda ng Gyera sa Mindanao. (tags)
Patuloy na ipinakikita ng reaksyunaryong gubyerno, laluna ng rehimeng Arroyo, na hindi ito interesadong kamtin ang tunay na kapayapaan para sa mamamayang Moro. Ang tanging interes ng rehimen ay sumuko at magbaba ng armas ang MILF. Sa ngayon todo ang propaganda ng gobyerno kapwa laban sa NPA at sa MILF na ang diumano may sabwatan ang MILF sa Abu Sayaff at sa Jemmayah Islamiya. Anuman ang kahihinatnan ng paghahanda sa gyera ng gobyerno, gumagawa lamang ito ng gulo at sa huli magbabagsak ng mabigat na bato sa sariling paa nito kapag itinodo nito ang gyera laban sa mamamayan ng Mindanao.
5,700 US TROOPS COMING FOR WAR EXERCISES IN LUZON (tags)
ome 5,700 American military personnel will join Filipino troops this month in major war drills, including live-fire exercises, amphibious landings and ship interdictions, US and Philippine military officials said yesterday. Unlike recent training in Mindanao, the new joint exercises will not be aimed primarily at battling terrorism but focus on routine drills to enhance both forces’ capabilities to operate together, US Marine Capt. Burrell Parmer said.
NPA GUERILLAS STRIKE AGAIN IN MINDANAO (tags)
Undetermined number of heavily armed New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas attacked an Army detachment in Barangay Camanza, Asuncion, Davao del Norte, sketchy reports reaching the area command and operation center of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMincom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Sunday.
AJLPP-USA Protests AFP Operations Despite Ramadan in Sulu, Mindanao (tags)
The Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace (AJLPP) –USA and its allied organizations vehemently protests and condemns the Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hermogenes Esperon’s announcement Monday that military offensives against suspected al Qaeda-linked militants in the southern Philippines will continue throughout the Islamic holy month of Ramadan
AJLPP-USA Protests AFP Operations Despite Ramadan in Sulu, Mindanao (tags)
The Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace (AJLPP) –USA vehemently protests and condemns the newly promoted and confirmed Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hermogenes Esperon’s announcement Monday that military offensives against suspected al Qaeda-linked militants in the southern Philippines will continue throughout the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the siland of Sulu and elsewhere.
MILF: WE ARE FOR NEW WAR (tags)
Media sources reported that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said yesterday that it was prepared to return to war should negotiations on territory, the thorniest of issues in ongoing peace talks with the government, lead to results not to its liking. Negotiations on territory, which documents on the peace talks describe as issues of ancestral domain, bogged down in Kuala Lumpur. More than 50,000 people died at the height of the Mindanao War just after Marcos declared martial law in 1972. In 2000, more than a million people were displaced when then President Joseph Estrada declared an “all-out war” policy aimed at dismantling MILF camps in Mindanao.
MILF CALLS FOR DEFENSE OF THE HOMELAND (tags)
Moro Islamic Liberation Front chairman Murad Ebrahim has called on his fellow Muslims and members of the indigenous communities to stand up together and defend their "homeland." Murad issued the call following last week's stalemate in the peace negotiations
AFP DEPLOYS TWO MORE BATALLIONS TO CARAGA REGION IN MINDANAO (tags)
Two more battalions of Army soldiers have been deployed by the AFP to the Caraga region as reinforcements to troops battling communist guerrillas in an apparent bid to crush the NPA insurgency. Meanwhile, NDF's George Madlos, NDF Mindanao spokeperson warned that a bloody end awaits the soldiers responsible for the spate of militant killings in the region. Caraga region is in the Northeastern part of Mindanao which covers Surigao and Agusan provinces.
AFP Southcom split into 2 commands (tags)
Southcom split into 2 commands By Jaime Laude The Philippine Star 08/27/2006 The military’s biggest troop contingent in Mindanao will be deactivated and split into two separate commands effective today. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon said the Southern Command under Maj. Gen. Gabriel Habacon will be divided into the Western Mindanao Command and the Eastern Mindanao Command. Esperon stressed the division of the Southcom into two military units is for a more effective control and deployment of troops in the whole of Mindanao. Maj. Gen. Eugenio Cedo has been designated as first commander of the Western Mindanao Command that will be based at the Southcom headquarters at Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City. On the other hand, the Eastern Mindanao Command to be based in Davao City will be under the command of Maj. Gen. Rodolfo Obaniana. Esperon explained the split of Southcom is necessary for better control of the troops and to put more focus on the fight against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in the eastern part of Mindanao, and the fight against the Abu Sayyaf and other terror groups in the western part of the region. Southcom, which has responsibility over the whole of Mindanao, is composed of three Army divisions, two joint task forces, two naval forces, a tactical operations wing of the Air Force, two elite Special Forces battalions and one company of troops from the Light Reaction Battalion. Esperon said there would be some redeployment of troops where their presence is mostly needed. The Southcom comprises roughly 60 percent of the 120,000-strong military, all under its administrative and operational control. "These two targets (Islamic extremists and communist rebels) are very important that’s why we assigned two commanders there. With the split, we believe that the commanders will be more focused," Esperon said. Esperon said the decision to split Southcom into two units is a strategic move to sustain the pursuit operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu. The decision, however, left Habacon with no unit to command. Habacon, one of the remaining so-called "Garci generals," said the deactivation of the Southcom will mean the closure of his military career. He opted to retire early, with only a few days left on his active service before his mandatory retirement on Sept. 9 on reaching the age of 56. "He (Habacon) decided to retire early due to personal reasons. He may have planned it earlier," Southcom spokesman Col. Susthenes Valcorza explained yesterday. Esperon will preside over the deactivation of Southcom today, on the same occasion where Habacon will be given retirement honors, Valcorza said. When asked if the splitting of the Southcom prompted Habacon to seek early retirement, Valcorza replied: "It could be one of the reasons." Habacon was among the generals mentioned in the controversial wiretap recordings that became an issue against President Arroyo. Aside from Habacon, among the generals mentioned to have helped in the rigging of the results of the May 10, 2004 elections in Mindanao include retired Lt. Gen. Roy Kyamko, former Southcom chief and retired Marine Brig. Gen. Francisco Gudani, along with Esperon. Kyamko has already retired when the tapes were leaked in June 2005. Gudani retired in October that same year, days after he exposed alleged cheating operations in Central Mindanao before a Senate investigation. A military fact-finding board headed by Navy Chief Vice Admiral Mateo Mayuga cleared the four generals of involvement in the alleged cheating operations.
US-RP Military dared to show proof of JI operations in Sulu (tags)
MILITARY authorities should justify their offensive in Sulu by presenting credible proof that Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) operatives from Indonesia are operating there, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. said in a statement Saturday.
MNLF officials belie GMA (tags)
Top Muslim leaders and Moro National Liberation Front officials in Central Mindanao on Wednesday belied President Arroyo’s claims that government has met “80 percent” of its peace deal with the MNLF, as contained in the 1976 Tripoli agreement.
Stop the war, Maguindanao folk cry (tags)
Pesante-USA/AJLPP joins the people of Mindanao in their urgent call to stop the US-Arroyo Regime's war against the people. “They are suffering and they want the fighting stopped,” Ruby Sahali, social welfare secretary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said of the more than 4,000 families displaced by fighting between militiamen and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels in Maguindanao.The evacuees came from the towns of Shariff Aguak, where the hostilities started last week, and from Mamasapano, Datu Piang, Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi, Ampatuan, Sultan sa Barongis and SK Pendatun towns, where it spread.
Philippines 2003: how 300 troops mutiny unmasked "war on terror" (tags)
[As you may notice, I’ve cut this part of the article because the question of peace talks between the left party RPMP-RPA-ABB and the Government has obviously nothing to do with the gangsters of GUAC. It's better to avoid any confusion. – Felix Zorba, October 7, 2003]
CIA - Faked Terror Machine. (tags)
CIA AGENT MICHAEL MEIRING BLEW HIS OWN LEGS OFF WHILE PLANTING A TERRORIST BOMB American Treasure Hunter Michael Meiring is nearly killed in a fiery explosion in his hotel room in the Philippines! Arrest warrents have been issued for him and California based partners after his escape to USA.
Philippines: 300 troops mutiny unmasks "war on terror" (tags)
A group of 296 soldiers - 70 junior officers and 226 enlisted men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)- staged on July 27 a siege of the Oakwood Premier luxury hotel at the Ayala Center in Makati.
did CIA fake terror bombings i philippines? (tags)
remember lavon affair in 1954? Has US done something similar here?
Join "Peace Is Patriotic" Vigil on 4th of July (tags)
On July 4th, the Coalition for World Peace will hold a "Peace Is Patriotic" vigil from 6:45pm--9pm at Lincoln Blvd and Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey. Please join us. Show your independence by standing up for peace, human rights,freedom and justice.