#ndfp — Public Fediverse posts

Political Prisoners Call For Accountability And Resumption Of Peace Talks In Wake Of Negros Killings By AFP Troops: Philippines

The killings of five alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in a so-called series of armed encounters with government troops in Cauayan, Negros Occidental Province on May 16, following the Toboso massacre on April 19, further exposes the failure of government claims that the insurgency has been effectively crushed.

For weeks, the government through the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has maintained that all those killed in Toboso, Negros Occidental Province on April 19 were combatants. This claim has been called into serious question by the findings of a recent fact-finding mission conducted by human rights and people’s organizations, as well as by the earlier statement of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) that 9 of the 19 individuals killed were civilians while the remaining 10 were NPA members.

These accounts coincide with the naming of civilian victims that include students, a journalist, community organizers, and rural youth. Initial autopsy findings by a forensic pathologist also raised serious questions regarding the military’s version of events, including gunshot wounds sustained from behind.

The presence of student leaders among those killed in Toboso and Cauayan underscores the continuing resonance especially among the youth of the social injustices and conditions that have long fueled armed resistance. Their involvement directly contradicts repeated military pronouncements that the insurgency is already “dead” or has lost all political significance. Far from demonstrating victory, these incidents reveal the bankruptcy of a purely militarist approach that seeks to suppress the conflict through force while leaving unaddressed the conditions that continue to drive it.

These contradictions demand not dismissal but scrutiny. Video footage from the AFP’s own drone cameras posted on social media after the Toboso massacre—later taken down—showed that one of the victims, Roger Fabillar, was alive and in no position to give battle. This indicates that he was summarily killed instead of being taken prisoner.

Despite public outrage, the government’s response has been grossly inadequate. Public statements from defense officials have advanced the untenable position that mere presence in an area where armed encounters occur justifies lethal force or even criminal liability. Such assertions run counter to the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, particularly the doctrines of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, which the Philippine government is bound to uphold.

Pronouncements from government spokespersons in the wake of the Toboso and Cauayan killings have emphasized military narratives but have not addressed the core questions: how state forces responded upon becoming aware of civilian presence in the areas of operation, what precautions were taken to protect non-combatants, and how accountability will be ensured in compliance with obligations under international humanitarian law.

These gaps are not merely procedural but reflect a deeper policy vacuum. Recent changes in peace process leadership should be seized to move beyond reactive crisis management toward a coherent and principled approach to the armed conflict.

We, former consultants in peace negotiations jailed on trumped-up charges, call on the GRP authorities to take the following urgent and concrete steps:

1. Support and convene a genuinely independent, transparent, and adequately resourced investigation into the Toboso and Cauayan killings, with full access to evidence and witnesses, and with findings made public.

2. Issue a clear policy statement affirming its commitment to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the accountability of state forces for violations.

3. Resume formal peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines. Despite the intent to resume peace talks expressed in the joint statement of the representatives of the GRP and the NDFP in Oslo in November 2023, the preparatory meetings stalled due to the GRP’s insistence that the disposition of armed forces be treated as the primary subject, relegating the roots of the armed conflict to the background while setting aside significant agreements already reached by the two parties in earlier peace negotiations.

4. Recognize that the continued detention of political prisoners—many elderly, sick, or held on manufactured charges—is inseparable from the broader question of peace. Meaningful confidence-building measures, including the release of political prisoners on humanitarian grounds, are essential to any credible peace process.

The massacre in Toboso, including those of civilians and minors, and the subsequent killings in Cauayan, underscore the human cost of a conflict left to fester without political resolution. The GRP must move beyond rhetoric and cosmetic measures that merely manage public perception. It must act decisively, transparently, and in accordance with its obligations under both domestic and international law.

Anything less perpetuates the very conditions that give rise to conflict.

By political prisoners and former NDFP consultants in the peace talks

Vicente Ladlad
Adelberto Silva
Wigberto Villarico

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/political-prisoners-press-for-accountability-and-resumption-of-peace-talks-in-relation-to-negros-killings/

Political Prisoners Call For Accountability And Resumption Of Peace Talks In Wake Of Negros Killings By AFP Troops: Philippines

The killings of five alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in a so-called series of armed encounters with government troops in Cauayan, Negros Occidental Province on May 16, following the Toboso massacre on April 19, further exposes the failure of government claims that the insurgency has been effectively crushed.

For weeks, the government through the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has maintained that all those killed in Toboso, Negros Occidental Province on April 19 were combatants. This claim has been called into serious question by the findings of a recent fact-finding mission conducted by human rights and people’s organizations, as well as by the earlier statement of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) that 9 of the 19 individuals killed were civilians while the remaining 10 were NPA members.

These accounts coincide with the naming of civilian victims that include students, a journalist, community organizers, and rural youth. Initial autopsy findings by a forensic pathologist also raised serious questions regarding the military’s version of events, including gunshot wounds sustained from behind.

The presence of student leaders among those killed in Toboso and Cauayan underscores the continuing resonance especially among the youth of the social injustices and conditions that have long fueled armed resistance. Their involvement directly contradicts repeated military pronouncements that the insurgency is already “dead” or has lost all political significance. Far from demonstrating victory, these incidents reveal the bankruptcy of a purely militarist approach that seeks to suppress the conflict through force while leaving unaddressed the conditions that continue to drive it.

These contradictions demand not dismissal but scrutiny. Video footage from the AFP’s own drone cameras posted on social media after the Toboso massacre—later taken down—showed that one of the victims, Roger Fabillar, was alive and in no position to give battle. This indicates that he was summarily killed instead of being taken prisoner.

Despite public outrage, the government’s response has been grossly inadequate. Public statements from defense officials have advanced the untenable position that mere presence in an area where armed encounters occur justifies lethal force or even criminal liability. Such assertions run counter to the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, particularly the doctrines of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, which the Philippine government is bound to uphold.

Pronouncements from government spokespersons in the wake of the Toboso and Cauayan killings have emphasized military narratives but have not addressed the core questions: how state forces responded upon becoming aware of civilian presence in the areas of operation, what precautions were taken to protect non-combatants, and how accountability will be ensured in compliance with obligations under international humanitarian law.

These gaps are not merely procedural but reflect a deeper policy vacuum. Recent changes in peace process leadership should be seized to move beyond reactive crisis management toward a coherent and principled approach to the armed conflict.

We, former consultants in peace negotiations jailed on trumped-up charges, call on the GRP authorities to take the following urgent and concrete steps:

1. Support and convene a genuinely independent, transparent, and adequately resourced investigation into the Toboso and Cauayan killings, with full access to evidence and witnesses, and with findings made public.

2. Issue a clear policy statement affirming its commitment to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the accountability of state forces for violations.

3. Resume formal peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines. Despite the intent to resume peace talks expressed in the joint statement of the representatives of the GRP and the NDFP in Oslo in November 2023, the preparatory meetings stalled due to the GRP’s insistence that the disposition of armed forces be treated as the primary subject, relegating the roots of the armed conflict to the background while setting aside significant agreements already reached by the two parties in earlier peace negotiations.

4. Recognize that the continued detention of political prisoners—many elderly, sick, or held on manufactured charges—is inseparable from the broader question of peace. Meaningful confidence-building measures, including the release of political prisoners on humanitarian grounds, are essential to any credible peace process.

The massacre in Toboso, including those of civilians and minors, and the subsequent killings in Cauayan, underscore the human cost of a conflict left to fester without political resolution. The GRP must move beyond rhetoric and cosmetic measures that merely manage public perception. It must act decisively, transparently, and in accordance with its obligations under both domestic and international law.

Anything less perpetuates the very conditions that give rise to conflict.

By political prisoners and former NDFP consultants in the peace talks

Vicente Ladlad
Adelberto Silva
Wigberto Villarico

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/political-prisoners-press-for-accountability-and-resumption-of-peace-talks-in-relation-to-negros-killings/

NPA-Northern Negros Vows To Continue People’s War

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Northern Negros (Roselyn Jean Pelle Command) declared its readiness and determination to continue the people’s war to achieve justice for those massacred in Toboso on April 19 in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental Province. Ten of the dead were Red fighters while nine were unarmed civilians.

The martyrs include NPA-Northern Negros commander Roger Fabillar (Ka Tapang), and its political instructor Maria Clarita Branzuel Blanco (Ka Sanim/Pat). Also killed were squad leader Rene Villarin Sr (Ka During); district Party cadre Genevieve Balora (Ka Raia); medical officer Pedro Bonghanoy (Ka Regen); Sonny Boy Caramihan (Ka Nikki); Arnel Javoc (Ka JR); Joros Caramihan (Ka Bunso); Labskie Purisimia Enustacion (Ka Judy); and Jocel Gimang (Ka John Paul).

NPA-Northern Negros spokesperson Ka Cecil Estrella said the martyrs played a crucial role. As Red fighters of the people’s army, they directly joined peasants in production, held discussions on the rights of the exploited, and provided social services to Negrense communities.

As the Communist Party of the Philippines Northern Negros Committee’s main instrument in advancing the people’s war, the NPA unit helped expand and strengthen mass bases and Party branches. In the committee’s December 2025 report, Party membership grew 30% that year and new branches were formed in broad areas. Membership in secret mass organizations grew nearly 50% while the number of individuals reached by the revolution tripled.

NPA-Northern Negros also doubled the range of its area of operations and launched at least 19 guerrilla offensive and counter-offensive actions. It conducted these operations up to towns near the provincial capital and populated areas.

“We salute every Red fighter who courageously practiced the class oriented and inexhaustible New People’s Army spirit!” Estrella declared. She added that the remaining Red fighters will continue to take action and strengthen themselves to achieve justice for all victims.

Estrella said the martyrs’ death weighs as heavy as Mount Kanlaon and their legacy lives on in every drop of tear, sweat, and blood flowing from the masses. “They are the seeds, water, and sunlight that further nourished the revolutionary victories reaped in Negros Island and the entire country,” he said.

“As the global crisis worsens, the people face ever more dire conditions where their only choice is to take up revolutionary violence to defend themselves and their fellow,” Estrella said. She said this is also why the NPA, founded in Tarlac Province in 1969, took root and expanded nationwide to Negros Island, and persists and thrives.

“Reactionary forces have tried for 57 years to crush the armed resistance but failed to uproot it. Fascist soldiers and their masters can never grasp that the people’s war will surely advance as long as masses remain mired in poverty,” Estrella declared.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-northern-negros-vows-to-continue-peoples-war/

NPA-Northern Negros Vows To Continue People’s War

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Northern Negros (Roselyn Jean Pelle Command) declared its readiness and determination to continue the people’s war to achieve justice for those massacred in Toboso on April 19 in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental Province. Ten of the dead were Red fighters while nine were unarmed civilians.

The martyrs include NPA-Northern Negros commander Roger Fabillar (Ka Tapang), and its political instructor Maria Clarita Branzuel Blanco (Ka Sanim/Pat). Also killed were squad leader Rene Villarin Sr (Ka During); district Party cadre Genevieve Balora (Ka Raia); medical officer Pedro Bonghanoy (Ka Regen); Sonny Boy Caramihan (Ka Nikki); Arnel Javoc (Ka JR); Joros Caramihan (Ka Bunso); Labskie Purisimia Enustacion (Ka Judy); and Jocel Gimang (Ka John Paul).

NPA-Northern Negros spokesperson Ka Cecil Estrella said the martyrs played a crucial role. As Red fighters of the people’s army, they directly joined peasants in production, held discussions on the rights of the exploited, and provided social services to Negrense communities.

As the Communist Party of the Philippines Northern Negros Committee’s main instrument in advancing the people’s war, the NPA unit helped expand and strengthen mass bases and Party branches. In the committee’s December 2025 report, Party membership grew 30% that year and new branches were formed in broad areas. Membership in secret mass organizations grew nearly 50% while the number of individuals reached by the revolution tripled.

NPA-Northern Negros also doubled the range of its area of operations and launched at least 19 guerrilla offensive and counter-offensive actions. It conducted these operations up to towns near the provincial capital and populated areas.

“We salute every Red fighter who courageously practiced the class oriented and inexhaustible New People’s Army spirit!” Estrella declared. She added that the remaining Red fighters will continue to take action and strengthen themselves to achieve justice for all victims.

Estrella said the martyrs’ death weighs as heavy as Mount Kanlaon and their legacy lives on in every drop of tear, sweat, and blood flowing from the masses. “They are the seeds, water, and sunlight that further nourished the revolutionary victories reaped in Negros Island and the entire country,” he said.

“As the global crisis worsens, the people face ever more dire conditions where their only choice is to take up revolutionary violence to defend themselves and their fellow,” Estrella said. She said this is also why the NPA, founded in Tarlac Province in 1969, took root and expanded nationwide to Negros Island, and persists and thrives.

“Reactionary forces have tried for 57 years to crush the armed resistance but failed to uproot it. Fascist soldiers and their masters can never grasp that the people’s war will surely advance as long as masses remain mired in poverty,” Estrella declared.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-northern-negros-vows-to-continue-peoples-war/

The Philippines is Not Your War Playground! US Bases, Troops, Weapons, and Military Facilities—Out Now!

Compatriots-NDFP, the revolutionary mass organization of Filipinos overseas, is outraged at US imperialism’s brazen disregard for Philippine sovereignty and the lives of the Filipino people demonstrated through its missile launch on May 5. As part of the Balikatan war games, the US and Philippine militaries fired a Tomahawk missile from Tacloban Airport in Leyte toward a target more than 600 kilometers away in Laur, Nueva Ecija. It marks the first time a ground-based intermediate range cruise missile has been deployed and fired within the US’ so-called “first-island chain,” a network of US military facilities across the Asia-Pacific region that serves as a forward launching pad for imperialist war against China.

The firing is a dangerous escalation of US imperialist provocation that drags the entire country closer into a war we have no interest in. Just as the US-Zionist war against Iran has proven, US military facilities across West Asia are prime targets for retaliatory attacks. Two Filipino migrants have already died from being caught in the crossfire of that war, and millions more have had their livelihoods impacted. Now, the Marcos regime threatens to create this same war theater in the Philippines itself. Rather than keep the Philippines safe, the growing presence of US troops and bases, as well as the escalating nature of these war rehearsals, place a bigger target on the backs of the Filipino people.

Even without full-blown war, joint US-Philippine war drills already endanger the Filipino masses. The missile’s impact site, Barangay Canantong, is not an unpopulated area—it is home to 3,000 people. And given the track record of misfires during Balikatan and other joint US war games such as in south Korea, any of those 3,000 lives could have become casualties. This is on top of other well-documented impacts of Balikatan, including “no sail” policies enforced in coastal areas that prevent fisherfolk from putting food on the table, or similar restrictions to movement for peasant farmers to work the fields. This is not even to mention the tons of fuel the US-Marcos regime has chosen to waste while the Philippines faces one of the worst economic crises in recent history.

Filipinos overseas must unite and protest foreign intervention in our homeland, especially those among us who live in countries with visiting forces agreements with the Philippine state: the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and France. We must see through and expose the regime’s lies that US troops are there to help with humanitarian relief, or that planned US defense facilities like refueling hubs and ammunition factories are there to give jobs to the people. The solution to the forced migration of our compatriots is not the creation of temporary work that will only serve the US’ military industrial complex—it is in creating genuine industries and enacting genuine land reform that serve the people’s interests. And this can only be done through waging people’s war, not by being cannon fodder and pawns to imperialist war.

We must also expose and oppose the Marcos regime’s bid to win a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, when it is the US-Marcos regime itself that threatens the security and future of the Philippines. We must see this for what it is: a ploy to deodorize the Marcos dynasty’s name in the international arena while also seeking to be a reliable lapdog of US imperialism within that body.

We must not allow our country to be used as imperialism’s playground, nor our people for imperialist target practice. Stop the war games! US bases, troops, weapons, and military facilities—out now!

source: NDFP

The Philippines is Not Your War Playground! US Bases, Troops, Weapons, and Military Facilities—Out Now!

Compatriots-NDFP, the revolutionary mass organization of Filipinos overseas, is outraged at US imperialism’s brazen disregard for Philippine sovereignty and the lives of the Filipino people demonstrated through its missile launch on May 5. As part of the Balikatan war games, the US and Philippine militaries fired a Tomahawk missile from Tacloban Airport in Leyte toward a target more than 600 kilometers away in Laur, Nueva Ecija. It marks the first time a ground-based intermediate range cruise missile has been deployed and fired within the US’ so-called “first-island chain,” a network of US military facilities across the Asia-Pacific region that serves as a forward launching pad for imperialist war against China.

The firing is a dangerous escalation of US imperialist provocation that drags the entire country closer into a war we have no interest in. Just as the US-Zionist war against Iran has proven, US military facilities across West Asia are prime targets for retaliatory attacks. Two Filipino migrants have already died from being caught in the crossfire of that war, and millions more have had their livelihoods impacted. Now, the Marcos regime threatens to create this same war theater in the Philippines itself. Rather than keep the Philippines safe, the growing presence of US troops and bases, as well as the escalating nature of these war rehearsals, place a bigger target on the backs of the Filipino people.

Even without full-blown war, joint US-Philippine war drills already endanger the Filipino masses. The missile’s impact site, Barangay Canantong, is not an unpopulated area—it is home to 3,000 people. And given the track record of misfires during Balikatan and other joint US war games such as in south Korea, any of those 3,000 lives could have become casualties. This is on top of other well-documented impacts of Balikatan, including “no sail” policies enforced in coastal areas that prevent fisherfolk from putting food on the table, or similar restrictions to movement for peasant farmers to work the fields. This is not even to mention the tons of fuel the US-Marcos regime has chosen to waste while the Philippines faces one of the worst economic crises in recent history.

Filipinos overseas must unite and protest foreign intervention in our homeland, especially those among us who live in countries with visiting forces agreements with the Philippine state: the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and France. We must see through and expose the regime’s lies that US troops are there to help with humanitarian relief, or that planned US defense facilities like refueling hubs and ammunition factories are there to give jobs to the people. The solution to the forced migration of our compatriots is not the creation of temporary work that will only serve the US’ military industrial complex—it is in creating genuine industries and enacting genuine land reform that serve the people’s interests. And this can only be done through waging people’s war, not by being cannon fodder and pawns to imperialist war.

We must also expose and oppose the Marcos regime’s bid to win a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, when it is the US-Marcos regime itself that threatens the security and future of the Philippines. We must see this for what it is: a ploy to deodorize the Marcos dynasty’s name in the international arena while also seeking to be a reliable lapdog of US imperialism within that body.

We must not allow our country to be used as imperialism’s playground, nor our people for imperialist target practice. Stop the war games! US bases, troops, weapons, and military facilities—out now!

source: NDFP

AFP is a Serial Child Killer: Outrage Over the Killing of Two Minors in Toboso!

The NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children decries the killing of two minors in Toboso, Negros Occidental. We hold the Marcos Jr. regime and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) accountable for these war crimes and grave violations of children’s rights in armed conflict.

The killing of 15-year-old Jemina Gumadlas and 17-year-old Dexter Patajo, both residents of Negros, is a heinous crime and a blatant violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), particularly the principle of distinction between combatants and civilians. Children, even in the context of armed conflict, must be afforded the highest level of protection at all times. The AFP’s indiscriminate firing in Toboso, which resulted in the killings of at least nine civilians, demonstrate a reckless disregard for these fundamental obligations to which the Philippine reactionary regime is party to and therefore must be held accountable to such obligations.

What further outrages the conscience is the fact that elements of the AFP even went to celebrate the outcome of their operations in an award-giving ceremony on April 24 following what they described as a “successful neutralization of armed insurgents” in Negros Occidental. This is despite full knowledge that two children were among those they massacred. Such conduct reflects not only a profound disregard for human life, but a deeply entrenched culture of impunity within the ranks of the AFP. The loss of children’s lives should never be celebrated.

Beyond the killings, the military operations of the 79th Infantry Battalion in Toboso have resulted in the mass displacement of civilians. Reports indicate that over 600 families were forcibly displaced in Toboso, effectively uprooting families including many children from their homes and exposing them to further harm and trauma. This mass displacement constitutes yet another grave violation of children’s rights and humanitarian protections afforded to civilians.

The AFP already has a long record of grave violations against children, including killings, forced displacement, psychological trauma, and the militarization of their communities. This has only intensified under the current Marcos Jr. regime.

In Negros Occidental, Ben and Ravin Fausto, 14 and 11 years old were shot dead on June 14, 2023, together with their parents Roy and Emelda Fausto, both farmers. The  parents of the boys were tagged by the AFP and the NTF-Elcac as members of the New People’s Army. The perpetrators were unnamed armed state agents in Himamaylan City.

Another incident occurred in Sitio Natuling, Barangay Budlasan, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental last July 26, 2022. In the morning of said date, the 59th Infantry Battalion straffed the home of  Christina Jacolbe, a pregnant mother killing her, her 16 year old daughteer, Everly Kee Jacolbe and Roldan Montero.

These are just some examples of the killing of minors in Negros Island. Since Marcos Jr. assumed office in 2022, at least 11 minors have been killed in military operations of the AFP.

We call on genuinely independent human rights bodies, both domestic and international, to conduct an immediate and impartial investigation into the Toboso massacre. The AFP commanders, the 79th IB, the specific unit involved in the operation and Marcos Jr. himself as commander-in-chief must all be held accountable, and justice must be rendered to the victims and their families.

Reference: Coni Ledesma, Head of the NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children

AFP is a Serial Child Killer: Outrage Over the Killing of Two Minors in Toboso!

The NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children decries the killing of two minors in Toboso, Negros Occidental. We hold the Marcos Jr. regime and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) accountable for these war crimes and grave violations of children’s rights in armed conflict.

The killing of 15-year-old Jemina Gumadlas and 17-year-old Dexter Patajo, both residents of Negros, is a heinous crime and a blatant violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), particularly the principle of distinction between combatants and civilians. Children, even in the context of armed conflict, must be afforded the highest level of protection at all times. The AFP’s indiscriminate firing in Toboso, which resulted in the killings of at least nine civilians, demonstrate a reckless disregard for these fundamental obligations to which the Philippine reactionary regime is party to and therefore must be held accountable to such obligations.

What further outrages the conscience is the fact that elements of the AFP even went to celebrate the outcome of their operations in an award-giving ceremony on April 24 following what they described as a “successful neutralization of armed insurgents” in Negros Occidental. This is despite full knowledge that two children were among those they massacred. Such conduct reflects not only a profound disregard for human life, but a deeply entrenched culture of impunity within the ranks of the AFP. The loss of children’s lives should never be celebrated.

Beyond the killings, the military operations of the 79th Infantry Battalion in Toboso have resulted in the mass displacement of civilians. Reports indicate that over 600 families were forcibly displaced in Toboso, effectively uprooting families including many children from their homes and exposing them to further harm and trauma. This mass displacement constitutes yet another grave violation of children’s rights and humanitarian protections afforded to civilians.

The AFP already has a long record of grave violations against children, including killings, forced displacement, psychological trauma, and the militarization of their communities. This has only intensified under the current Marcos Jr. regime.

In Negros Occidental, Ben and Ravin Fausto, 14 and 11 years old were shot dead on June 14, 2023, together with their parents Roy and Emelda Fausto, both farmers. The  parents of the boys were tagged by the AFP and the NTF-Elcac as members of the New People’s Army. The perpetrators were unnamed armed state agents in Himamaylan City.

Another incident occurred in Sitio Natuling, Barangay Budlasan, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental last July 26, 2022. In the morning of said date, the 59th Infantry Battalion straffed the home of  Christina Jacolbe, a pregnant mother killing her, her 16 year old daughteer, Everly Kee Jacolbe and Roldan Montero.

These are just some examples of the killing of minors in Negros Island. Since Marcos Jr. assumed office in 2022, at least 11 minors have been killed in military operations of the AFP.

We call on genuinely independent human rights bodies, both domestic and international, to conduct an immediate and impartial investigation into the Toboso massacre. The AFP commanders, the 79th IB, the specific unit involved in the operation and Marcos Jr. himself as commander-in-chief must all be held accountable, and justice must be rendered to the victims and their families.

Reference: Coni Ledesma, Head of the NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children

CPP Statement On The Toboso Massacre

We condemn in the strongest terms possible the Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly the 79th Infantry Battalion, for the indiscriminate and inordinate killing of 19 people, both Red fighters of the New People’s Army, and unarmed individuals in Barangay Salamanca in Toboso Municipality, Negros Occidental Province last April 19.

We honor the squad of ten Red fighters of the NPA who fought the fascists to their last breath. They are:

1. Roger Fabillar (Ka Tapang), who served as NPA commander of the Northern Negros Front
2. Sonny Boy Caramihan, 28, from Barangay Bagonbon, San Carlos City;
3. Rene Villarin Sr, 57, Barangay Marcelo, Calatrava, squad leader;
4. Pedro Bonghanoy, medical officer, Barangay Libertad, Escalante City;
5. Arnel Javoc, 32, from Barangay Lalong, Calatrava;
6. Joros Caramihan y Ramos, 18, from Don Salvador Benedicto;
7. Maria Clarita Branzuel Blanco (Ka Sanim/Pat), Political Instructor; and
8. Genevieve Balora (Ka Raia), from Bacolod City, district Party cadre
9. Labskie Purisimia Enustacion, 33, of Sitio Tinibawan, Barangay Bug-ang, Toboso
10. Jocel Gimang, 18, of Sitio Bautista, Barangay Malasibog, Escalante City

We commiserate with the loved ones and comrades of the fallen Red fighters of the NPA. Their deaths weigh heavily on our hearts. As revolutionary warriors, they all selflessly served the Filipino people, especially the oppressed and exploited peasants and farm workers of Negros. They were deeply loved by the masses. Defying the military clampdown on their communities, people of Toboso and Calatrava lined up in long convoys to bring their beloved Red fighters to their final resting place, by way of expressing their high respects and deep gratitude.

The New People’s Army suffered a tactical defeat that fateful day, but remains clear-sighted and determined to advance along the revolutionary path towards strategic victory. The valiant stand and heroism of its Red fighters in Toboso inspire the oppressed masses to rise and resist through armed revolution. The blood spilt by the fallen warriors during their final battle nurtures the ground for the people’s war, from which will spring forth even more Red fighters of the New People’s Army.

We also extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of:

1. Roel Sabillo, 19, resident of Barangay Tabunac, Toboso
2. R.J. Nichole Ledesma, 30, community journalist from Bacolod City
3. Alyssa Alano, councilor, UP Diliman Student Council
4. Maureen Keil Santuyo, 24, member, National Network of Agrarian Reform Advocates (NNARA-Youth)
5. Errol Wendel, 24, member, Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura
6. Jemina Gumadlas, 15, resident of Sitio Plarending, Barangay Salamanca, Toboso
7. Lyle Prijoles, 40, of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines, from San Franciso, California (USA)
8. Kai Sorem, 26, from Seattle, Washington (USA)
9. Dexter Patajo, 17, Sitio Buklog, Barangay Lalong, Calatrava, Negros Occidental Province

Based on the initial information we have gathered, they were killed despite the fact they were unarmed or non-combatants. Among them are a journalist, a student leader, peasant organizers, overseas human rights workers and local residents. Two of the victims were children.

We pay tribute to the victims of the Toboso Massacre, both the Red fighters and all those who selflessly chose to offer their strength, knowledge and abilities to serve the interests of the oppressed and exploited masses. Let us follow the path they took for the salvation of the nation.

The officers and operating troops of the AFP are culpable for willful and indiscriminate killing. They must be made to account and punished for their gross crimes under international humanitarian law.

Video footage from the AFP’s own drone cameras has also surfaced on social media showing Ka Tapang was alive, and apparently in no position to give battle. This indicates that he was summarily killed by the fascists, instead of being taken in as prisoner of war. We urge other conscionable elements of the AFP who possess other drone footage to smuggle these out and step forward to reveal real accounts of how the brutal crimes were carried out, against the stories being weaved by their superiors.

The AFP is desperately trying to cover up their crimes, concocting twisted facts to prop up its lies. The AFP’s initial claim that seven firearms were recovered from the site was later “updated” to 20 (later 24), to make it appear that all those killed were armed combatants.

The AFP forcibly evacuated local residents then cordoned them off to impose an information blackout and prevent the media and independent groups from conducting interviews and an effective investigation into the massacre. Days later, a military-organized group was allowed to conduct its own “fact finding mission,” a sham designed to fabricate an AFP certified story that aligns with their official fiction of a “legitimate operation.”

Incredulous, various personalities and sectors have called for an independent investigation. The Commission on Human Rights has announced it will conduct one, although it had made similar empty pronouncements in the past. Recall how it promised to investigate the 2023 Fausto family massacre in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental Province involving the AFP’s 94th Infantry Battalion, but has failed to come up with anything substantive almost three years since.

The broad masses of the Filipino people suffer worsening forms of oppression and exploitation in the face of the deepening crisis under the Marcos puppet and fascist regime. Marcos has ordered his armed minions in the AFP and the National Task Force-ELCAC to escalate their attacks on the people in the guise of “peace and development.” Like his dictator father, Marcos Jr employs terror tactics to subject people to political repression, particularly in the countryside, where martial law reigns.

State terrorism has never succeeded in crushing the will of the people. The attacks of the Marcos regime will fail to stop the people from fighting back. On the contrary, its fascist brutality only sharpens the people’s resolve, making undeniable the justness and necessity of waging armed revolution.

The New People’s Army stands unwavering in its determination to deliver revolutionary justice to all victims of the Toboso massacre.

The flames of the people’s war will rage on and spread across the country, as the Filipino people’s aspiration for national freedom and genuine democracy burn strongly in their hearts.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/on-the-toboso-massacre/

CPP Statement On The Toboso Massacre

We condemn in the strongest terms possible the Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly the 79th Infantry Battalion, for the indiscriminate and inordinate killing of 19 people, both Red fighters of the New People’s Army, and unarmed individuals in Barangay Salamanca in Toboso Municipality, Negros Occidental Province last April 19.

We honor the squad of ten Red fighters of the NPA who fought the fascists to their last breath. They are:

1. Roger Fabillar (Ka Tapang), who served as NPA commander of the Northern Negros Front
2. Sonny Boy Caramihan, 28, from Barangay Bagonbon, San Carlos City;
3. Rene Villarin Sr, 57, Barangay Marcelo, Calatrava, squad leader;
4. Pedro Bonghanoy, medical officer, Barangay Libertad, Escalante City;
5. Arnel Javoc, 32, from Barangay Lalong, Calatrava;
6. Joros Caramihan y Ramos, 18, from Don Salvador Benedicto;
7. Maria Clarita Branzuel Blanco (Ka Sanim/Pat), Political Instructor; and
8. Genevieve Balora (Ka Raia), from Bacolod City, district Party cadre
9. Labskie Purisimia Enustacion, 33, of Sitio Tinibawan, Barangay Bug-ang, Toboso
10. Jocel Gimang, 18, of Sitio Bautista, Barangay Malasibog, Escalante City

We commiserate with the loved ones and comrades of the fallen Red fighters of the NPA. Their deaths weigh heavily on our hearts. As revolutionary warriors, they all selflessly served the Filipino people, especially the oppressed and exploited peasants and farm workers of Negros. They were deeply loved by the masses. Defying the military clampdown on their communities, people of Toboso and Calatrava lined up in long convoys to bring their beloved Red fighters to their final resting place, by way of expressing their high respects and deep gratitude.

The New People’s Army suffered a tactical defeat that fateful day, but remains clear-sighted and determined to advance along the revolutionary path towards strategic victory. The valiant stand and heroism of its Red fighters in Toboso inspire the oppressed masses to rise and resist through armed revolution. The blood spilt by the fallen warriors during their final battle nurtures the ground for the people’s war, from which will spring forth even more Red fighters of the New People’s Army.

We also extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of:

1. Roel Sabillo, 19, resident of Barangay Tabunac, Toboso
2. R.J. Nichole Ledesma, 30, community journalist from Bacolod City
3. Alyssa Alano, councilor, UP Diliman Student Council
4. Maureen Keil Santuyo, 24, member, National Network of Agrarian Reform Advocates (NNARA-Youth)
5. Errol Wendel, 24, member, Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura
6. Jemina Gumadlas, 15, resident of Sitio Plarending, Barangay Salamanca, Toboso
7. Lyle Prijoles, 40, of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines, from San Franciso, California (USA)
8. Kai Sorem, 26, from Seattle, Washington (USA)
9. Dexter Patajo, 17, Sitio Buklog, Barangay Lalong, Calatrava, Negros Occidental Province

Based on the initial information we have gathered, they were killed despite the fact they were unarmed or non-combatants. Among them are a journalist, a student leader, peasant organizers, overseas human rights workers and local residents. Two of the victims were children.

We pay tribute to the victims of the Toboso Massacre, both the Red fighters and all those who selflessly chose to offer their strength, knowledge and abilities to serve the interests of the oppressed and exploited masses. Let us follow the path they took for the salvation of the nation.

The officers and operating troops of the AFP are culpable for willful and indiscriminate killing. They must be made to account and punished for their gross crimes under international humanitarian law.

Video footage from the AFP’s own drone cameras has also surfaced on social media showing Ka Tapang was alive, and apparently in no position to give battle. This indicates that he was summarily killed by the fascists, instead of being taken in as prisoner of war. We urge other conscionable elements of the AFP who possess other drone footage to smuggle these out and step forward to reveal real accounts of how the brutal crimes were carried out, against the stories being weaved by their superiors.

The AFP is desperately trying to cover up their crimes, concocting twisted facts to prop up its lies. The AFP’s initial claim that seven firearms were recovered from the site was later “updated” to 20 (later 24), to make it appear that all those killed were armed combatants.

The AFP forcibly evacuated local residents then cordoned them off to impose an information blackout and prevent the media and independent groups from conducting interviews and an effective investigation into the massacre. Days later, a military-organized group was allowed to conduct its own “fact finding mission,” a sham designed to fabricate an AFP certified story that aligns with their official fiction of a “legitimate operation.”

Incredulous, various personalities and sectors have called for an independent investigation. The Commission on Human Rights has announced it will conduct one, although it had made similar empty pronouncements in the past. Recall how it promised to investigate the 2023 Fausto family massacre in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental Province involving the AFP’s 94th Infantry Battalion, but has failed to come up with anything substantive almost three years since.

The broad masses of the Filipino people suffer worsening forms of oppression and exploitation in the face of the deepening crisis under the Marcos puppet and fascist regime. Marcos has ordered his armed minions in the AFP and the National Task Force-ELCAC to escalate their attacks on the people in the guise of “peace and development.” Like his dictator father, Marcos Jr employs terror tactics to subject people to political repression, particularly in the countryside, where martial law reigns.

State terrorism has never succeeded in crushing the will of the people. The attacks of the Marcos regime will fail to stop the people from fighting back. On the contrary, its fascist brutality only sharpens the people’s resolve, making undeniable the justness and necessity of waging armed revolution.

The New People’s Army stands unwavering in its determination to deliver revolutionary justice to all victims of the Toboso massacre.

The flames of the people’s war will rage on and spread across the country, as the Filipino people’s aspiration for national freedom and genuine democracy burn strongly in their hearts.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/on-the-toboso-massacre/

US Military Support Emboldens Marcos Jr to Commit War Crimes – NDFP

Continued US military support is further emboldening the Marcos Jr. regime and its fascist armed forces to continue committing war crimes against the Filipino people. Under the cover of “joint military exercises,” “security cooperation” and “humanitarian response,” and in pursuit of its oft-lapsed deadline to end the armed revolution, the US-Marcos regime has escalated bombings, forced evacuations, torture, and extrajudicial killings targeting peasants, workers, indigenous peoples, youth activists and entire rural communities.

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines denounces in the strongest terms the Toboso massacre, where many civilians and non-combatants were brutally killed in a bloody military operation that reflects the AFP’s utter disregard for international humanitarian law and human rights. The killing of civilians and the conduct of military operations with complete disregard for the principles of distinction, proportionality, and humane treatment reveal the criminal character of the reactionary state’s counterinsurgency campaign.

Even in the midst of war, there are rules that must be respected. IHL exists to protect civilians, the wounded, prisoners of war, and all those unable to take part in hostilities. It prohibits deliberate attacks on non-combatants, collective punishment, executions and the indiscriminate use of force. Marcos Jr. and the AFP continue to trample on these basic principles, proving their contempt not only for the struggling Filipino masses, but for universally recognized standards of humanity.

The AFP’s propaganda offensives following the Toboso massacre have been aimed at dehumanizing the victims and denying them dignity in death. By reducing the slain to labels and repeating claims that the armed revolutionary movement has been defeated, the regime seeks to justify its war crimes and conceal the political roots of the armed conflict.

But what the AFP says cannot be farther from the truth. The revolutionary struggle in the countryside remains alive and continues to draw strength from the fighting Filipino masses who continue to confront the unresolved crises of landlessness, poverty, exploitation and escalating repression. The blood of the Toboso martyrs will ignite a greater wave of resistance among Negrosanons and the entire Filipino people against a regime that is increasingly isolated from the masses.

No matter how the AFP lies to slander the slain martyrs of Toboso, the masses know the truth. They know that those who offered their lives in the struggle to liberate the people from oppression and exploitation are among the best sons and daughters of the motherland. Their names live in the memory, respect and unending gratitude of the people they selflessly served.

This recent atrocity in Negros is part of a broader pattern of massacres and grave violations carried out by the AFP under the command of Marcos Jr. and the guidance of his US imperialist master. Through military aid, intelligence cooperation, and diplomatic backing, US imperialism strengthens the fascist machinery used by Marcos Jr. against the Filipino people. The Philippines is set to receive up to $2.5 billion in Foreign Military Financing from 2026 to 2030, or $500 million annually, on top of previous and parallel security assistance packages. The ongoing Balikatan exercises is the largest in the history with over 17,000 personnel participating including 10,000 US soldiers, 1,400 from Japan, 400 from Australia, and many more from Canada, France and New Zealand.

These billions in military financing and relentless military drills are intended to expand the arsenal, surveillance capacity, and operational reach of the AFP. The ultimate objective of US imperialism is to use the country as a launchpad for war preparations against China which can only be made possible by defeating the armed revolution.

As early as 2023, Marcos Jr. has publicly declared the defeat of the New People’s Army in some areas of the country. When this declaration was utterly disproved, they moved the deadline to the end of 2024. They failed to meet this target once again leading to the current deadline to end the armed revolution by 2028. The US-Marcos regime’s repeated failure to meet its own deadline only shows that as long as the roots of the armed conflict remain unresolved, more and more of the Filipino people will realize the necessity of taking up arms against their oppressors.

Under the weight of their own failures and the intensifying contradictions of the ruling imperialist system today, the US and its puppet Marcos Jr. regime are bound to commit more war crimes in pursuit of their objective to quell revolutionary upsurge.

The Philippine revolutionary movement mourns the fallen of Toboso and extends deepest solidarity to their families, to their communities and their comrades. Let their memory serve as an inspiration to continue the struggle and advance the national democratic revolution to total victory.

Hold Marcos Jr and the AFP accountable for war crimes!
Justice for the victims of the Toboso massacre!
Down with US imperialism!
Support the Filipino people’s struggle for national and social liberation!

US Military Support Emboldens Marcos Jr to Commit War Crimes – NDFP

Continued US military support is further emboldening the Marcos Jr. regime and its fascist armed forces to continue committing war crimes against the Filipino people. Under the cover of “joint military exercises,” “security cooperation” and “humanitarian response,” and in pursuit of its oft-lapsed deadline to end the armed revolution, the US-Marcos regime has escalated bombings, forced evacuations, torture, and extrajudicial killings targeting peasants, workers, indigenous peoples, youth activists and entire rural communities.

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines denounces in the strongest terms the Toboso massacre, where many civilians and non-combatants were brutally killed in a bloody military operation that reflects the AFP’s utter disregard for international humanitarian law and human rights. The killing of civilians and the conduct of military operations with complete disregard for the principles of distinction, proportionality, and humane treatment reveal the criminal character of the reactionary state’s counterinsurgency campaign.

Even in the midst of war, there are rules that must be respected. IHL exists to protect civilians, the wounded, prisoners of war, and all those unable to take part in hostilities. It prohibits deliberate attacks on non-combatants, collective punishment, executions and the indiscriminate use of force. Marcos Jr. and the AFP continue to trample on these basic principles, proving their contempt not only for the struggling Filipino masses, but for universally recognized standards of humanity.

The AFP’s propaganda offensives following the Toboso massacre have been aimed at dehumanizing the victims and denying them dignity in death. By reducing the slain to labels and repeating claims that the armed revolutionary movement has been defeated, the regime seeks to justify its war crimes and conceal the political roots of the armed conflict.

But what the AFP says cannot be farther from the truth. The revolutionary struggle in the countryside remains alive and continues to draw strength from the fighting Filipino masses who continue to confront the unresolved crises of landlessness, poverty, exploitation and escalating repression. The blood of the Toboso martyrs will ignite a greater wave of resistance among Negrosanons and the entire Filipino people against a regime that is increasingly isolated from the masses.

No matter how the AFP lies to slander the slain martyrs of Toboso, the masses know the truth. They know that those who offered their lives in the struggle to liberate the people from oppression and exploitation are among the best sons and daughters of the motherland. Their names live in the memory, respect and unending gratitude of the people they selflessly served.

This recent atrocity in Negros is part of a broader pattern of massacres and grave violations carried out by the AFP under the command of Marcos Jr. and the guidance of his US imperialist master. Through military aid, intelligence cooperation, and diplomatic backing, US imperialism strengthens the fascist machinery used by Marcos Jr. against the Filipino people. The Philippines is set to receive up to $2.5 billion in Foreign Military Financing from 2026 to 2030, or $500 million annually, on top of previous and parallel security assistance packages. The ongoing Balikatan exercises is the largest in the history with over 17,000 personnel participating including 10,000 US soldiers, 1,400 from Japan, 400 from Australia, and many more from Canada, France and New Zealand.

These billions in military financing and relentless military drills are intended to expand the arsenal, surveillance capacity, and operational reach of the AFP. The ultimate objective of US imperialism is to use the country as a launchpad for war preparations against China which can only be made possible by defeating the armed revolution.

As early as 2023, Marcos Jr. has publicly declared the defeat of the New People’s Army in some areas of the country. When this declaration was utterly disproved, they moved the deadline to the end of 2024. They failed to meet this target once again leading to the current deadline to end the armed revolution by 2028. The US-Marcos regime’s repeated failure to meet its own deadline only shows that as long as the roots of the armed conflict remain unresolved, more and more of the Filipino people will realize the necessity of taking up arms against their oppressors.

Under the weight of their own failures and the intensifying contradictions of the ruling imperialist system today, the US and its puppet Marcos Jr. regime are bound to commit more war crimes in pursuit of their objective to quell revolutionary upsurge.

The Philippine revolutionary movement mourns the fallen of Toboso and extends deepest solidarity to their families, to their communities and their comrades. Let their memory serve as an inspiration to continue the struggle and advance the national democratic revolution to total victory.

Hold Marcos Jr and the AFP accountable for war crimes!
Justice for the victims of the Toboso massacre!
Down with US imperialism!
Support the Filipino people’s struggle for national and social liberation!

Strengthen The NDFP And Fight US Imperialist War

Let us wholeheartedly commemorate the 53rd Anniversary of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on April 24. On this occasion, let us further strengthen the unity and determination of the NDFP and Filipino people to advance the revolutionary struggle to liberate the country from the clutches of US imperialism and the local ruling classes.

Let us celebrate the victories of the NDFP as the most consolidated alliance of progressive and patriotic forces advancing the people’s democratic revolution. Over more than five decades, the NDF has united various democratic sectors around its 12-point program for advancing the national democratic revolution.

Even as we look back at our history of relentless struggle, the NDFP must also prepare to take on even heavier tasks in the future, especially amid the growing threat of imperialist wars to the country’s independence, safety, and livelihood, brought about by the intensifying wars and aggression by US imperialism, as it seeks to appropriate or seize vital resources across the world.

The imperialist US successively attacked Venezuela and Iran, countries with the largest and third largest oil reserves. Using overwhelming military force, the US trampled on all norms of international law. The US also openly threatens Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, Panama, Greenland, and even part of Ukraine’s territory.

The US is intensifying its warfare in order to preserve its global dominance amid the strategic decline of its economy and global empire, and the rise of various centers of trade and financial systems that do not use the dollar, and of military alliances and cooperation outside its control. The US uses and brandishes its military force to impose hegemony in different parts of the world, and to contain the expansion of the power of its imperialist rivals, especially China.

The US is further tightening its control over the Philippines. American capitalists are scrambling to extract and monopolize the country’s remaining mineral wealth, and vast tracts of land to build their plantations and “renewable energy” or tourism projects. Marcos recently secretly signed an agreement with the US, under the so-called Luzon Economic Corridor, that will surrender 1,620 hectares to the full control of American capitalists, for plunder and seizure.

The US continues to expand its military presence in the Philippines. More and more American troops, missiles, and war matériel are being stationed in military bases, both in EDCA sites and in secret military facilities in multiple parts of the country. Every year, it carries out ever larger military exercises and war games, such as the Balikatan exercises that began this month with at least 10,000 American troops.

The US exploits the Philippines, as well as South Korea and Japan, to strengthen the presence of its military forces in the seas around China. In the South China Sea, it carries out “transparency operations” using the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard to challenge and provoke China. The US also plans to build a large oil storage facility in the Davao Gulf to service its warships. It also plans to build a factory to produce military equipment, including ammunition and drones, in Subic and Aurora. All these allow the US to use the Philippines for military aggression, just as its military bases in the Gulf states were used to launch the armed assault on Iran.

The hands of all American soldiers are stained with the blood of thousands of Iranians and Palestinians killed in US-Israeli bombing, of millions killed in aggressive wars over the past century, including one million Filipinos killed by the US in its war of occupation of the Philippines. Allowing the country to be used foreign invaders to rest, to stockpile their weapons, and to launch more aggressive wars is a great insult to the Filipino people. The US dragging of the Philippines into its rivalry with China runs counter to the Filipino people’s desire to peacefully coexist with neighboring countries. This brazenly tramples on Philippine sovereignty and threatens its security.

Amid this situation, the NDFP faces a major challenge to unite and arouse the Filipino people to stand up against the growing threat of US warfare and its use of the Philippines as launchpad for wars of aggression. “People’s war against imperialist war” is the call to forge the path of armed revolution to free the country from the claws of imperialist predators and oppressors.

The NDFP is well-positioned to take on these tasks, especially with its strengthening and renewed vigor in recent years. Revolutionary organizations have continued to expand and consolidate since the Party declared the rectification movement in 2023. The ranks of KM, PKM, Armas, and other revolutionary organizations are multiplying. Some have held their national congresses and council meetings, while continuing to expand and consolidate.

The NDFP held conferences and meetings to unite its allied organizations on burning national issues, and to exchange experiences and lessons in organizing and mobilizing the masses. Activities that rouse the broad masses, such as lightning rallies, and the use of various forms of propaganda, here and abroad, continue to increase. Support for the people’s army is expanding as more and more people seek to go to the countryside to join the armed struggle.

Let us steel our resolve to strengthen and expand the NDFP on the occasion of its 53rd anniversary. Let us further raise the NDFP’s contribution and participation in strengthening the protracted people’s war, a war advanced by the entire people, to achieve national and social liberation.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/2026/04/21/strengthen-the-ndfp-and-fight-us-imperialist-war/

Strengthen The NDFP And Fight US Imperialist War

Let us wholeheartedly commemorate the 53rd Anniversary of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on April 24. On this occasion, let us further strengthen the unity and determination of the NDFP and Filipino people to advance the revolutionary struggle to liberate the country from the clutches of US imperialism and the local ruling classes.

Let us celebrate the victories of the NDFP as the most consolidated alliance of progressive and patriotic forces advancing the people’s democratic revolution. Over more than five decades, the NDF has united various democratic sectors around its 12-point program for advancing the national democratic revolution.

Even as we look back at our history of relentless struggle, the NDFP must also prepare to take on even heavier tasks in the future, especially amid the growing threat of imperialist wars to the country’s independence, safety, and livelihood, brought about by the intensifying wars and aggression by US imperialism, as it seeks to appropriate or seize vital resources across the world.

The imperialist US successively attacked Venezuela and Iran, countries with the largest and third largest oil reserves. Using overwhelming military force, the US trampled on all norms of international law. The US also openly threatens Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, Panama, Greenland, and even part of Ukraine’s territory.

The US is intensifying its warfare in order to preserve its global dominance amid the strategic decline of its economy and global empire, and the rise of various centers of trade and financial systems that do not use the dollar, and of military alliances and cooperation outside its control. The US uses and brandishes its military force to impose hegemony in different parts of the world, and to contain the expansion of the power of its imperialist rivals, especially China.

The US is further tightening its control over the Philippines. American capitalists are scrambling to extract and monopolize the country’s remaining mineral wealth, and vast tracts of land to build their plantations and “renewable energy” or tourism projects. Marcos recently secretly signed an agreement with the US, under the so-called Luzon Economic Corridor, that will surrender 1,620 hectares to the full control of American capitalists, for plunder and seizure.

The US continues to expand its military presence in the Philippines. More and more American troops, missiles, and war matériel are being stationed in military bases, both in EDCA sites and in secret military facilities in multiple parts of the country. Every year, it carries out ever larger military exercises and war games, such as the Balikatan exercises that began this month with at least 10,000 American troops.

The US exploits the Philippines, as well as South Korea and Japan, to strengthen the presence of its military forces in the seas around China. In the South China Sea, it carries out “transparency operations” using the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard to challenge and provoke China. The US also plans to build a large oil storage facility in the Davao Gulf to service its warships. It also plans to build a factory to produce military equipment, including ammunition and drones, in Subic and Aurora. All these allow the US to use the Philippines for military aggression, just as its military bases in the Gulf states were used to launch the armed assault on Iran.

The hands of all American soldiers are stained with the blood of thousands of Iranians and Palestinians killed in US-Israeli bombing, of millions killed in aggressive wars over the past century, including one million Filipinos killed by the US in its war of occupation of the Philippines. Allowing the country to be used foreign invaders to rest, to stockpile their weapons, and to launch more aggressive wars is a great insult to the Filipino people. The US dragging of the Philippines into its rivalry with China runs counter to the Filipino people’s desire to peacefully coexist with neighboring countries. This brazenly tramples on Philippine sovereignty and threatens its security.

Amid this situation, the NDFP faces a major challenge to unite and arouse the Filipino people to stand up against the growing threat of US warfare and its use of the Philippines as launchpad for wars of aggression. “People’s war against imperialist war” is the call to forge the path of armed revolution to free the country from the claws of imperialist predators and oppressors.

The NDFP is well-positioned to take on these tasks, especially with its strengthening and renewed vigor in recent years. Revolutionary organizations have continued to expand and consolidate since the Party declared the rectification movement in 2023. The ranks of KM, PKM, Armas, and other revolutionary organizations are multiplying. Some have held their national congresses and council meetings, while continuing to expand and consolidate.

The NDFP held conferences and meetings to unite its allied organizations on burning national issues, and to exchange experiences and lessons in organizing and mobilizing the masses. Activities that rouse the broad masses, such as lightning rallies, and the use of various forms of propaganda, here and abroad, continue to increase. Support for the people’s army is expanding as more and more people seek to go to the countryside to join the armed struggle.

Let us steel our resolve to strengthen and expand the NDFP on the occasion of its 53rd anniversary. Let us further raise the NDFP’s contribution and participation in strengthening the protracted people’s war, a war advanced by the entire people, to achieve national and social liberation.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/2026/04/21/strengthen-the-ndfp-and-fight-us-imperialist-war/

NPA Unit Punishes AFP War Criminal In Negros Occidental Province

The New People’s Army (NPA)-South Central Negros (Romeo Nanta Command) carried out revolutionary justice by meting out the death penalty on Philippine Army 2nd Lt. Rodolfo Fajardo (Ret.), a despotic landlord and Alsa Masa armed group leader, on April 12. The people’s army ambushed Fajardo in Barangay Payao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental Province.

According to the unit, the punishment was implemented following the order of the people’s court in the area. The revolutionary court found him guilty of widespread land-grabbing, multiple killings, and grave abuse of power. He also served as detachment commander in Barangay Cansalungon, Isabela Province in 1985–1986.

The court said Fajardo used his position, influence, and armed forces to seize land and livestock from peasants across several communities. He drove off from their land hundreds of farmers and residents who consequently suffered hunger and deep poverty.

Fajardo was responsible for killing or ordering the killing of at least 14 peasants in a series of massacres, burnings, and extrajudicial executions. He targeted peasants who refused to surrender their land and those who opposed his land-grabbing.

“His case marks a definitive stand against exploitation, particularly against peasants and farm workers,” NPA-South Central Negros spokesperson Ka Dionesio Magbuelas said. He added that the peasant masses, supported by the NPA and the Party, build revolutionary government in the countryside where impunity has no place.

Families of Fajardo’s victims warmly welcomed his punishment after many years. Local chapters of the Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (National Peasants Association), Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (Patriotic Movement of New Women), and Kabataang Makabayan (Patriotic Youth) in the region also hailed this act of justice.

“Justice will reach those who chooses to do harm, and accountability will be demanded from all who exploit the people for their own gain,” said Magbuelas. He also warned all state forces, their agents, and other criminal elements to immediately stop all illegal and oppressive activities.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-operation-kills-despotic-landlord-and-retired-soldier-in-negros-occidental/

NPA Unit Punishes AFP War Criminal In Negros Occidental Province

The New People’s Army (NPA)-South Central Negros (Romeo Nanta Command) carried out revolutionary justice by meting out the death penalty on Philippine Army 2nd Lt. Rodolfo Fajardo (Ret.), a despotic landlord and Alsa Masa armed group leader, on April 12. The people’s army ambushed Fajardo in Barangay Payao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental Province.

According to the unit, the punishment was implemented following the order of the people’s court in the area. The revolutionary court found him guilty of widespread land-grabbing, multiple killings, and grave abuse of power. He also served as detachment commander in Barangay Cansalungon, Isabela Province in 1985–1986.

The court said Fajardo used his position, influence, and armed forces to seize land and livestock from peasants across several communities. He drove off from their land hundreds of farmers and residents who consequently suffered hunger and deep poverty.

Fajardo was responsible for killing or ordering the killing of at least 14 peasants in a series of massacres, burnings, and extrajudicial executions. He targeted peasants who refused to surrender their land and those who opposed his land-grabbing.

“His case marks a definitive stand against exploitation, particularly against peasants and farm workers,” NPA-South Central Negros spokesperson Ka Dionesio Magbuelas said. He added that the peasant masses, supported by the NPA and the Party, build revolutionary government in the countryside where impunity has no place.

Families of Fajardo’s victims warmly welcomed his punishment after many years. Local chapters of the Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Magbubukid (National Peasants Association), Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (Patriotic Movement of New Women), and Kabataang Makabayan (Patriotic Youth) in the region also hailed this act of justice.

“Justice will reach those who chooses to do harm, and accountability will be demanded from all who exploit the people for their own gain,” said Magbuelas. He also warned all state forces, their agents, and other criminal elements to immediately stop all illegal and oppressive activities.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-operation-kills-despotic-landlord-and-retired-soldier-in-negros-occidental/

Highest Red Salute to Ka Rosa Kian (Ka Roxanne), Dulangan Manobo Revolutionary and Red Fighter

The Revolutionary Lumad Organizations of Mindanao renders the highest Red salute to Ka Rosa Kian, Ka Roxanne—a daughter of the Dulangan Manobo people, a national minority dispossessed of ancestral land and denied the right to self-determination, and a Red fighter of the New People’s Army—who was martyred in a defensive engagement together with her unit against forces of the 603rd Infantry Brigade in Barangay Laconon, Tboli, South Cotabato on April 9, 2026.

As organizations rooted among Lumad communities and part of the broad united front under the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, we honor Ka Roxanne not only as a Red fighter, but as a daughter of the Lumad people who rose in collective resistance.

In the face of sustained military operations aimed at encirclement and annihilation, Ka Roxanne stood her ground and fought as part of a collective forged in years of struggle among Lumad and peasant communities. She fell in the course of defending the people and advancing the revolutionary cause she upheld until the end.

Ka Roxanne’s life was shaped by the intertwined forces of class exploitation and national oppression imposed by a semi-colonial and semi-feudal state serving imperialist and comprador interests. The Lumad are not merely poor peasants. They are a distinct people dispossessed of land, denied self-determination, and subjected to militarization to secure corporate plunder.

She emerged from the concrete struggle of the Dulangan Manobo in the Daguma mountain range—a struggle against land grabbing, militarization, and the violent intrusion of mining, logging, and energy corporations into ancestral land.

For decades, Daguma has been a site of systematic dispossession. Since 2022, coal mining operations in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu—by Daguma Agro Minerals Inc. and Bonanza Energy Resources Inc., linked to San Miguel Energy Corporation—have seized more than 17,000 hectares of forest and agricultural land, including ancestral territories of the Dulangan Manobo and T’boli.

Residents have been forced to sell land at prices as low as ₱80,000-₱100,000 per hectare under coercion, as areas are declared “danger zones” by authorities aligned with mining interests. Daily transport of coal from Daguma to ports and power plants exposes the integration of Lumad land into a chain of extraction serving imperialist and comprador profit.

Fertile land has been turned into zones of dust, smoke, and ruin. Rivers such as Kabulnan and Allah face contamination, while landslides, sinkholes, and floods intensify in the wake of mining operations.

This is the Lumad question in its concrete form: a people dispossessed of ancestral land and denied the right to determine their future by a state that exists to serve foreign and local ruling interests.

This plunder is enforced through militarization. The reactionary state—armed instrument of imperialist and comprador rule—deploys AFP units, paramilitary forces, forced surrender campaigns, and counterinsurgency operations to crush Lumad resistance and secure territory for corporate exploitation.

The Lake Sebu massacre of December 3, 2017, where Dulangan Manobo and T’boli leaders including Datu Victor Danyan were killed, stands as a clear act of state terror against a people defending their land.

The enforced disappearance of Dulangan Manobo activist John Calaba—last seen in a DMCI-linked area and believed to have been taken by company guards in coordination with state forces—further exposes the direct collusion between corporations and the military.

The killing of Lumad youth continues. On June 8, 2024, 16-year-old Dulangan Manobo student Kuni Cuba was shot dead by soldiers of the 7th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Kiluding, Barangay Kiadsam, Sultan Kudarat. He was on his way home when troops opened fire and later branded him and his companions as members of the New People’s Army.

Kuni Cuba was a scholar and an incoming Grade 10 student. His companions survived by fleeing, exposing the military’s false claims. His family and community rejected the accusations. His killing exposes the impunity of state forces and the systematic targeting of Lumad youth.

This is not a war against armed combatants alone. It is a war against the Lumad people—their communities, their children, and their future.

Across Daguma and surrounding areas, Lumad communities endure encirclement, harassment, arrests, and deception through state programs that undermine genuine free, prior, and informed consent.

Under these conditions, armed struggle emerges as necessity.

Ka Roxanne chose this path. She joined the New People’s Army and took part in advancing agrarian revolution, consolidating mass bases, and defending Lumad communities under relentless enemy offensives.

In Daguma and nearby areas, revolutionary forces and Lumad communities have resisted and disrupted mining, logging, and military operations through coordinated mass action and armed struggle, asserting their collective right to land, survival, and self-determination.

Through struggle, Lumad, Moro, and peasant communities forged unity against shared exploitation and national oppression.

As a Lumad woman, Ka Roxanne confronted both national and patriarchal oppression. She stood among those transforming these conditions through armed and collective struggle. She was not apart from the masses, but one of them.

The AFP and its corporate backers will vilify Ka Roxanne and her comrades while continuing their war to secure imperialist and comprador interests. Their propaganda cannot conceal the truth: it is the state that wages terror against the people.

To the ruling system, the death of a Lumad Red fighter is expendable. To the Lumad masses, Ka Roxanne is a daughter who gave her life for ancestral land and collective rights.

Her martyrdom is a great loss. But it is a temporary loss.

The same conditions that produced Ka Roxanne will produce countless more Lumad fighters who will rise from among the masses and take their place in the advancing people’s war.

We call on all Lumad communities and oppressed peoples of Mindanao:

Defend ancestral lands against mining, logging, and land grabbing.

Resist militarization and all forms of state repression.

Strengthen Lumad-Moro-peasant unity.

Advance the struggle for self-determination and national liberation.

In the face of repression and loss, we raise the call that echoes across the land:

Paragas ki to pakigbisog!

Onward with the struggle!

Pulang saludo kang Ka Roxanne!

Mabuhay ang Lumad na nakikibaka!

Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan!

Isulong ang rebolusyong Pilipino!

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Highest Red Salute to Ka Rosa Kian (Ka Roxanne), Dulangan Manobo Revolutionary and Red Fighter

The Revolutionary Lumad Organizations of Mindanao renders the highest Red salute to Ka Rosa Kian, Ka Roxanne—a daughter of the Dulangan Manobo people, a national minority dispossessed of ancestral land and denied the right to self-determination, and a Red fighter of the New People’s Army—who was martyred in a defensive engagement together with her unit against forces of the 603rd Infantry Brigade in Barangay Laconon, Tboli, South Cotabato on April 9, 2026.

As organizations rooted among Lumad communities and part of the broad united front under the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, we honor Ka Roxanne not only as a Red fighter, but as a daughter of the Lumad people who rose in collective resistance.

In the face of sustained military operations aimed at encirclement and annihilation, Ka Roxanne stood her ground and fought as part of a collective forged in years of struggle among Lumad and peasant communities. She fell in the course of defending the people and advancing the revolutionary cause she upheld until the end.

Ka Roxanne’s life was shaped by the intertwined forces of class exploitation and national oppression imposed by a semi-colonial and semi-feudal state serving imperialist and comprador interests. The Lumad are not merely poor peasants. They are a distinct people dispossessed of land, denied self-determination, and subjected to militarization to secure corporate plunder.

She emerged from the concrete struggle of the Dulangan Manobo in the Daguma mountain range—a struggle against land grabbing, militarization, and the violent intrusion of mining, logging, and energy corporations into ancestral land.

For decades, Daguma has been a site of systematic dispossession. Since 2022, coal mining operations in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu—by Daguma Agro Minerals Inc. and Bonanza Energy Resources Inc., linked to San Miguel Energy Corporation—have seized more than 17,000 hectares of forest and agricultural land, including ancestral territories of the Dulangan Manobo and T’boli.

Residents have been forced to sell land at prices as low as ₱80,000-₱100,000 per hectare under coercion, as areas are declared “danger zones” by authorities aligned with mining interests. Daily transport of coal from Daguma to ports and power plants exposes the integration of Lumad land into a chain of extraction serving imperialist and comprador profit.

Fertile land has been turned into zones of dust, smoke, and ruin. Rivers such as Kabulnan and Allah face contamination, while landslides, sinkholes, and floods intensify in the wake of mining operations.

This is the Lumad question in its concrete form: a people dispossessed of ancestral land and denied the right to determine their future by a state that exists to serve foreign and local ruling interests.

This plunder is enforced through militarization. The reactionary state—armed instrument of imperialist and comprador rule—deploys AFP units, paramilitary forces, forced surrender campaigns, and counterinsurgency operations to crush Lumad resistance and secure territory for corporate exploitation.

The Lake Sebu massacre of December 3, 2017, where Dulangan Manobo and T’boli leaders including Datu Victor Danyan were killed, stands as a clear act of state terror against a people defending their land.

The enforced disappearance of Dulangan Manobo activist John Calaba—last seen in a DMCI-linked area and believed to have been taken by company guards in coordination with state forces—further exposes the direct collusion between corporations and the military.

The killing of Lumad youth continues. On June 8, 2024, 16-year-old Dulangan Manobo student Kuni Cuba was shot dead by soldiers of the 7th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Kiluding, Barangay Kiadsam, Sultan Kudarat. He was on his way home when troops opened fire and later branded him and his companions as members of the New People’s Army.

Kuni Cuba was a scholar and an incoming Grade 10 student. His companions survived by fleeing, exposing the military’s false claims. His family and community rejected the accusations. His killing exposes the impunity of state forces and the systematic targeting of Lumad youth.

This is not a war against armed combatants alone. It is a war against the Lumad people—their communities, their children, and their future.

Across Daguma and surrounding areas, Lumad communities endure encirclement, harassment, arrests, and deception through state programs that undermine genuine free, prior, and informed consent.

Under these conditions, armed struggle emerges as necessity.

Ka Roxanne chose this path. She joined the New People’s Army and took part in advancing agrarian revolution, consolidating mass bases, and defending Lumad communities under relentless enemy offensives.

In Daguma and nearby areas, revolutionary forces and Lumad communities have resisted and disrupted mining, logging, and military operations through coordinated mass action and armed struggle, asserting their collective right to land, survival, and self-determination.

Through struggle, Lumad, Moro, and peasant communities forged unity against shared exploitation and national oppression.

As a Lumad woman, Ka Roxanne confronted both national and patriarchal oppression. She stood among those transforming these conditions through armed and collective struggle. She was not apart from the masses, but one of them.

The AFP and its corporate backers will vilify Ka Roxanne and her comrades while continuing their war to secure imperialist and comprador interests. Their propaganda cannot conceal the truth: it is the state that wages terror against the people.

To the ruling system, the death of a Lumad Red fighter is expendable. To the Lumad masses, Ka Roxanne is a daughter who gave her life for ancestral land and collective rights.

Her martyrdom is a great loss. But it is a temporary loss.

The same conditions that produced Ka Roxanne will produce countless more Lumad fighters who will rise from among the masses and take their place in the advancing people’s war.

We call on all Lumad communities and oppressed peoples of Mindanao:

Defend ancestral lands against mining, logging, and land grabbing.

Resist militarization and all forms of state repression.

Strengthen Lumad-Moro-peasant unity.

Advance the struggle for self-determination and national liberation.

In the face of repression and loss, we raise the call that echoes across the land:

Paragas ki to pakigbisog!

Onward with the struggle!

Pulang saludo kang Ka Roxanne!

Mabuhay ang Lumad na nakikibaka!

Mabuhay ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan!

Isulong ang rebolusyong Pilipino!

Source link

Memoirs of a Guerrilla

Ka Uma, political officer, NPA Platoon
Contribution from MAKIBAKA

It was on the eve of the new millenium, in 1999, when I went to the countrysides on an integration program with the New People’s Army (NPA).

I was 20 years old then, a student at the university, and was already a member of the underground Communist Party of the Philippines. I realized that genuine change in our society could only come through a people’s revolution. I resolved to dedicate my life to serving the people as a red fighter.

In practice, however, it took me five years to convince myself that I could really be effective as a guerrilla fighter. Life in the countrysides was very difficult, and I had to fight off my desire for the conveniences of urban life, and for the comfort of  living in one’s own home.

Besides, I am a lesbian. I was wary of coming out in the beginning. I knew that the Party guaranteed everyone’s right to choose their sexual orientation. I had read “On the Relation of Sexes”—a document that spells out the Party’s principles on marriage, courtship and building a proletarian family, but I was still afraid of  ridicule and discrimination. Eventually, I fell in love with a female comrade, and we decided to come out.  it was awkward in the beginning. There was talk that some male comrades who had planned to woo either me or my partner were “frustrated”.  It became the subject of jokes among our comrades. After the prescribed period, our comrades arranged for our Party wedding. The marriage, however, ended a few years later when my partner suffered a trauma and eventually decided to leave the movement. I filed a case of divorce, which the Party granted after a series of talks to try to patch things up. A few years after, I fell in love with another female comrade. We got married in Party ceremonies. She remains my comrade and partner to this day.

Living with the masses was a source of great fulfillment for me.  It helped that  my first assignment was  an area where the barriofolk—even, and especially the women—have had years of experience with guerrilla war.  Years of abuse they had suffered when the military set up camp nearby have militated them for the struggle. Some of them had sons who have sacrificed their lives for the war. While we were their fighting army, they also served as our source of strength—they were our eyes and ears, and made our work of consolidating and expanding our revolutionary front relatively easy.

I steadily rose from the ranks, from being a new and inexperienced fighter to being a political officer of  the platoon.

The real test would come soon enough, however, when a large-scale military operation in the area resulted in a series of encounters with  enemy forces, wounding and killing a number of my comrades. I was overcome with grief for my comrades who fell, especially since it became clear that several weaknesses on our part—those who were in leadership positions—made us vulnerable to the attacks.

My comrades’ morale plunged, conservatism was high among us.  We lost some of our best comrades. I experienced a crisis of confidence, and refrained from volunteering for counter operations against the enemy, worried that my comrades would not have confidence in my military leadership.

It took quite some time, with the help of a series of assessments and criticism-self-criticism, presided over by some senior Party cadres, for many of us to overcome our desire to leave the revolution.  It was particularly hard for me, as both my parents were sick and very old, with no one to take care of them. I sought the help of comrades in the city and I also took a short leave to talk to my kin in our hometown. When my father died, I was able to visit his wake one evening. My relatives consoled me, saying I have no reason to feel guilty as I was doing something honorable, and  those words strengthened me when I went back to the countrysides. But the next blow came when my partner was captured in an encounter with enemy forces.

I knew I had to steel myself up. I was facing a personal crisis, yet I also knew that it was an urgent task to help raise my comrades’ fighting will. I prepared well for assessments and meetings in order to help my comrades get a good grasp of  our situation, our strengths as well as our weakness. I learned the importance of  getting a detailed and objective view of events in order to draw up lessons and better prepare for the work and battles ahead. Whenever possible, we went back to the sites of battles to analyze the circumstances and other important details. Through such painstaking process, we eventually were able to launch a string of successful tactical operations against the fascist military forces with the invaluable help of the organized masses in the area.

Being a Party member operating as a fulltime guerrilla fighter for many years, I am always conscious of the need for constant study, both in terms of constantly evaluating the situation, and relying on the teachings and writings of the great Marxist leaders to guide my practical work. Criticism-self-criticism sessions taught me to be more patient, especially when struggling out  ideas with comrades who are less experienced, and those who are wont to have a rather narrow view of the problems we face. This has not been easy, and I had been once severely criticized for an ultra-left handling of a comrade who sometimes made an issue of my gender, saying during arguments that  I was “only a woman”.  He eventually asked to be deployed to another work.

I am currently assigned to “guerrilla zone preparation”—which means that the revolutionary base is not yet established. This requires us to be very mobile, not only because of the military dangers but also because of the need to reach as many villages as possible in order to quickly build a revolutionary base. It also means carrying very heavy load everyday—anywhere between 10-15 kilos, excluding the guns assigned to us.

I remain unfazed, however. I remain fully convinced there is no way to liberate our people but through armed revolution. Also, things have become a lot lighter for me, as my partner is now back beside me,  having been released from prison through the help of friends and comrades in the city.

source: NDFP

Memoirs of a Guerrilla

Ka Uma, political officer, NPA Platoon
Contribution from MAKIBAKA

It was on the eve of the new millenium, in 1999, when I went to the countrysides on an integration program with the New People’s Army (NPA).

I was 20 years old then, a student at the university, and was already a member of the underground Communist Party of the Philippines. I realized that genuine change in our society could only come through a people’s revolution. I resolved to dedicate my life to serving the people as a red fighter.

In practice, however, it took me five years to convince myself that I could really be effective as a guerrilla fighter. Life in the countrysides was very difficult, and I had to fight off my desire for the conveniences of urban life, and for the comfort of  living in one’s own home.

Besides, I am a lesbian. I was wary of coming out in the beginning. I knew that the Party guaranteed everyone’s right to choose their sexual orientation. I had read “On the Relation of Sexes”—a document that spells out the Party’s principles on marriage, courtship and building a proletarian family, but I was still afraid of  ridicule and discrimination. Eventually, I fell in love with a female comrade, and we decided to come out.  it was awkward in the beginning. There was talk that some male comrades who had planned to woo either me or my partner were “frustrated”.  It became the subject of jokes among our comrades. After the prescribed period, our comrades arranged for our Party wedding. The marriage, however, ended a few years later when my partner suffered a trauma and eventually decided to leave the movement. I filed a case of divorce, which the Party granted after a series of talks to try to patch things up. A few years after, I fell in love with another female comrade. We got married in Party ceremonies. She remains my comrade and partner to this day.

Living with the masses was a source of great fulfillment for me.  It helped that  my first assignment was  an area where the barriofolk—even, and especially the women—have had years of experience with guerrilla war.  Years of abuse they had suffered when the military set up camp nearby have militated them for the struggle. Some of them had sons who have sacrificed their lives for the war. While we were their fighting army, they also served as our source of strength—they were our eyes and ears, and made our work of consolidating and expanding our revolutionary front relatively easy.

I steadily rose from the ranks, from being a new and inexperienced fighter to being a political officer of  the platoon.

The real test would come soon enough, however, when a large-scale military operation in the area resulted in a series of encounters with  enemy forces, wounding and killing a number of my comrades. I was overcome with grief for my comrades who fell, especially since it became clear that several weaknesses on our part—those who were in leadership positions—made us vulnerable to the attacks.

My comrades’ morale plunged, conservatism was high among us.  We lost some of our best comrades. I experienced a crisis of confidence, and refrained from volunteering for counter operations against the enemy, worried that my comrades would not have confidence in my military leadership.

It took quite some time, with the help of a series of assessments and criticism-self-criticism, presided over by some senior Party cadres, for many of us to overcome our desire to leave the revolution.  It was particularly hard for me, as both my parents were sick and very old, with no one to take care of them. I sought the help of comrades in the city and I also took a short leave to talk to my kin in our hometown. When my father died, I was able to visit his wake one evening. My relatives consoled me, saying I have no reason to feel guilty as I was doing something honorable, and  those words strengthened me when I went back to the countrysides. But the next blow came when my partner was captured in an encounter with enemy forces.

I knew I had to steel myself up. I was facing a personal crisis, yet I also knew that it was an urgent task to help raise my comrades’ fighting will. I prepared well for assessments and meetings in order to help my comrades get a good grasp of  our situation, our strengths as well as our weakness. I learned the importance of  getting a detailed and objective view of events in order to draw up lessons and better prepare for the work and battles ahead. Whenever possible, we went back to the sites of battles to analyze the circumstances and other important details. Through such painstaking process, we eventually were able to launch a string of successful tactical operations against the fascist military forces with the invaluable help of the organized masses in the area.

Being a Party member operating as a fulltime guerrilla fighter for many years, I am always conscious of the need for constant study, both in terms of constantly evaluating the situation, and relying on the teachings and writings of the great Marxist leaders to guide my practical work. Criticism-self-criticism sessions taught me to be more patient, especially when struggling out  ideas with comrades who are less experienced, and those who are wont to have a rather narrow view of the problems we face. This has not been easy, and I had been once severely criticized for an ultra-left handling of a comrade who sometimes made an issue of my gender, saying during arguments that  I was “only a woman”.  He eventually asked to be deployed to another work.

I am currently assigned to “guerrilla zone preparation”—which means that the revolutionary base is not yet established. This requires us to be very mobile, not only because of the military dangers but also because of the need to reach as many villages as possible in order to quickly build a revolutionary base. It also means carrying very heavy load everyday—anywhere between 10-15 kilos, excluding the guns assigned to us.

I remain unfazed, however. I remain fully convinced there is no way to liberate our people but through armed revolution. Also, things have become a lot lighter for me, as my partner is now back beside me,  having been released from prison through the help of friends and comrades in the city.

source: NDFP

Defeat Imperialist Wars Through Revolution

Imperialism means war. Vladimir Lenin’s analysis finds renewed relevance today as US imperialism launches a relentless pursuit to redivide the world and gain access to strategic oil resources in the Middle East by waging a war of aggression against Iran.

Barely a month since the US and Zionist Israel first attacked Tehran on February 28, at least 2,000 civilians have already been killed amid their escalating bombardments. In neighboring Lebanon, Israeli missile strikes have likewise resulted in mass casualties and widespread displacement. At least 1,450 civilians, including more than 100 children have been killed in Israel’s attempt to invade and occupy Southern Lebanon.

In response to US-Israeli attacks, Iran has carried out calibrated missile and drone attacks on US military bases across the region such as Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite being at a disadvantage, Iran continues to fiercely defend its independence. Contrary to Trump’s desire to incite an uprising to overthrow the current anti-US government and install a puppet state, millions of Iranians and their allies are now even more united, pouring into the streets to denounce US military aggression. Iran has every right to defend itself against US attacks and is justified in its measured military responses.

In contrast, madman Trump’s warmongering posture and his brazen support for Israel has isolated him in the world stage. The supposedly “solid” NATO imperialist military alliance has shown signs of fracturing as multiple European states such as Spain, France, and Italy have distanced themselves from US demands to support the ongoing attacks against Iran. Even Trump’s own counterterror chief Joe Kent also resigned from his post decrying how “Iran posed no imminent threat” to the US. Trump used Iran’s supposed nuclear threat as a pretext to attack the nation and assassinate its leader Ali Khamenei and other top security officials, mistakenly assuming that the death of its officials would lead to regime change.

Trump is increasingly isolated from the broad masses of the American people, whose daily concerns from the rising costs of living, lack of access to healthcare, to rampant ICE deportations and killings, stand in sharp contrast to the priorities reflected in the war he initiated. Far from enjoying unified support, large sections of the population have expressed skepticism, frustration, and outright opposition to Trump.

Trump’s insatiable drive to exert control over Iran reveals the fundamental contradiction of monopoly stage capitalism. In seeking control over oil resources and deliberately depleting the energy sources that flow to its imperialist rival China, the US has triggered a global economic crisis.

Prof. Jose Maria Sison correctly pointed out how “the US will continue to generate crisis in the world capitalist system” and how this worsening crisis will inevitably lead “to the escalation of state terrorism and wars of aggression.” He further notes that “the imperialist powers continue to band together to shift the burden of the crisis to the working people and the underdeveloped countries.”

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, where 20 percent of the world’s energy resources pass through, to the US. This move, in turn, has triggered higher oil prices, causing increased transportation and production costs. Supply chains which have already been strained by years of consecutive crisis, became even more fragile. Financial markets have reacted with instability, and governments scramble to manage the fallout.

The Philippine semicolonial and semifeudal economy, heavily dependent on imported fuel, has been particularly exposed. As oil prices spike due to the conflict, transport workers are unable to eke out a living; farmers now face higher input costs; workers see real wages eroded while small businesses struggle to survive. The burden falls heavily on the working class and peasantry, who have the least capacity to absorb such economic shocks.

The bureaucrat capitalist Marcos Jr. regime remains deaf to the worsening conditions of the Filipino people and continues to impose heavier burdens on the masses. Instead of protecting the public from soaring fuel prices, Marcos Jr. colludes with the oil cartel to allow unregulated price hikes consistent with the Oil Deregulation Law. Instead, Marcos Jr. offers token measures such as limited subsidies, short-term aid, and occasional “free rides.” Even the proposed four-day workweek is in reality a means for corporations to further squeeze daily wage earners who can least afford reduced incomes.

Even as millions of Filipino migrants in the Middle East face heightened danger amid escalating war, Marcos Jr. has proven incapable of ensuring their safety. At home, the regime calls for “belt-tightening” from a population already struggling to survive, while it indulges in lavish expenditures abroad. Billions of public funds are squandered on joint military exercises like Balikatan that could otherwise address urgent social needs. Amid all these, fascist repression persists, targeting the revolutionary forces and the mass movement whose resistance continues to grow in the face of deepening crisis.

Prof. Sison reminds us yet again that these conditions of multiple crises “cause political turmoil within the ruling system and incite the people to wage all forms of resistance.” The chronic crisis inherent in the semicolonial and semifeudal order and the simmering anger of the Filipino people creates the most fertile ground to organize and mobilize the masses in their millions.

The Filipino people must unite and collectively fight for their welfare amid war and deepening crisis, strengthen calls to end US aggression in Iran while supporting the Iranian people’s defense of national sovereignty. They must resist the use of the Philippines as a springboard for imperialist wars by calling for the dismantling of EDCA bases and other foreign military facilities, and the abrogation of unequal treaties that bind the country to US imperialist interests. At the same time, urgent economic demands must be advanced: the rollback of oil prices, repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and other burdensome taxes, and salary increases to address the soaring cost of living. The just demands of jeepney drivers and operators for fare increases must also be supported as part of the broader struggle to defend the livelihood and welfare of the working masses.

In the final analysis, the US-Israeli war on Iran and the crisis that it creates presents an objective basis for the upsurge of our revolutionary struggle against imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. As the revolutionary movement celebrates the 57th anniversary of the New People’s Army, we are reminded of the historic mission to advance the people’s democratic revolution by carrying out protracted people’s war. Winning the national democratic revolution is the biggest contribution of the Filipino people to the world proletarian struggle against imperialism and all reaction.

source: Liberation News

Defeat Imperialist Wars Through Revolution

Imperialism means war. Vladimir Lenin’s analysis finds renewed relevance today as US imperialism launches a relentless pursuit to redivide the world and gain access to strategic oil resources in the Middle East by waging a war of aggression against Iran.

Barely a month since the US and Zionist Israel first attacked Tehran on February 28, at least 2,000 civilians have already been killed amid their escalating bombardments. In neighboring Lebanon, Israeli missile strikes have likewise resulted in mass casualties and widespread displacement. At least 1,450 civilians, including more than 100 children have been killed in Israel’s attempt to invade and occupy Southern Lebanon.

In response to US-Israeli attacks, Iran has carried out calibrated missile and drone attacks on US military bases across the region such as Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite being at a disadvantage, Iran continues to fiercely defend its independence. Contrary to Trump’s desire to incite an uprising to overthrow the current anti-US government and install a puppet state, millions of Iranians and their allies are now even more united, pouring into the streets to denounce US military aggression. Iran has every right to defend itself against US attacks and is justified in its measured military responses.

In contrast, madman Trump’s warmongering posture and his brazen support for Israel has isolated him in the world stage. The supposedly “solid” NATO imperialist military alliance has shown signs of fracturing as multiple European states such as Spain, France, and Italy have distanced themselves from US demands to support the ongoing attacks against Iran. Even Trump’s own counterterror chief Joe Kent also resigned from his post decrying how “Iran posed no imminent threat” to the US. Trump used Iran’s supposed nuclear threat as a pretext to attack the nation and assassinate its leader Ali Khamenei and other top security officials, mistakenly assuming that the death of its officials would lead to regime change.

Trump is increasingly isolated from the broad masses of the American people, whose daily concerns from the rising costs of living, lack of access to healthcare, to rampant ICE deportations and killings, stand in sharp contrast to the priorities reflected in the war he initiated. Far from enjoying unified support, large sections of the population have expressed skepticism, frustration, and outright opposition to Trump.

Trump’s insatiable drive to exert control over Iran reveals the fundamental contradiction of monopoly stage capitalism. In seeking control over oil resources and deliberately depleting the energy sources that flow to its imperialist rival China, the US has triggered a global economic crisis.

Prof. Jose Maria Sison correctly pointed out how “the US will continue to generate crisis in the world capitalist system” and how this worsening crisis will inevitably lead “to the escalation of state terrorism and wars of aggression.” He further notes that “the imperialist powers continue to band together to shift the burden of the crisis to the working people and the underdeveloped countries.”

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, where 20 percent of the world’s energy resources pass through, to the US. This move, in turn, has triggered higher oil prices, causing increased transportation and production costs. Supply chains which have already been strained by years of consecutive crisis, became even more fragile. Financial markets have reacted with instability, and governments scramble to manage the fallout.

The Philippine semicolonial and semifeudal economy, heavily dependent on imported fuel, has been particularly exposed. As oil prices spike due to the conflict, transport workers are unable to eke out a living; farmers now face higher input costs; workers see real wages eroded while small businesses struggle to survive. The burden falls heavily on the working class and peasantry, who have the least capacity to absorb such economic shocks.

The bureaucrat capitalist Marcos Jr. regime remains deaf to the worsening conditions of the Filipino people and continues to impose heavier burdens on the masses. Instead of protecting the public from soaring fuel prices, Marcos Jr. colludes with the oil cartel to allow unregulated price hikes consistent with the Oil Deregulation Law. Instead, Marcos Jr. offers token measures such as limited subsidies, short-term aid, and occasional “free rides.” Even the proposed four-day workweek is in reality a means for corporations to further squeeze daily wage earners who can least afford reduced incomes.

Even as millions of Filipino migrants in the Middle East face heightened danger amid escalating war, Marcos Jr. has proven incapable of ensuring their safety. At home, the regime calls for “belt-tightening” from a population already struggling to survive, while it indulges in lavish expenditures abroad. Billions of public funds are squandered on joint military exercises like Balikatan that could otherwise address urgent social needs. Amid all these, fascist repression persists, targeting the revolutionary forces and the mass movement whose resistance continues to grow in the face of deepening crisis.

Prof. Sison reminds us yet again that these conditions of multiple crises “cause political turmoil within the ruling system and incite the people to wage all forms of resistance.” The chronic crisis inherent in the semicolonial and semifeudal order and the simmering anger of the Filipino people creates the most fertile ground to organize and mobilize the masses in their millions.

The Filipino people must unite and collectively fight for their welfare amid war and deepening crisis, strengthen calls to end US aggression in Iran while supporting the Iranian people’s defense of national sovereignty. They must resist the use of the Philippines as a springboard for imperialist wars by calling for the dismantling of EDCA bases and other foreign military facilities, and the abrogation of unequal treaties that bind the country to US imperialist interests. At the same time, urgent economic demands must be advanced: the rollback of oil prices, repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and other burdensome taxes, and salary increases to address the soaring cost of living. The just demands of jeepney drivers and operators for fare increases must also be supported as part of the broader struggle to defend the livelihood and welfare of the working masses.

In the final analysis, the US-Israeli war on Iran and the crisis that it creates presents an objective basis for the upsurge of our revolutionary struggle against imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. As the revolutionary movement celebrates the 57th anniversary of the New People’s Army, we are reminded of the historic mission to advance the people’s democratic revolution by carrying out protracted people’s war. Winning the national democratic revolution is the biggest contribution of the Filipino people to the world proletarian struggle against imperialism and all reaction.

source: Liberation News

NPA–Southwest Negros Carries Out 5 Military Actions In March

The New People’s Army (NPA)–Southwest Negros (Armando Sumayang Jr Command) reported that its units carried out five military actions in March. These included three harassment operations and two disarming actions.

On March 1, Red fighters fired at the 15th IB detachment in Barangay Haba, Candoni Town, Negros Occidental Province. The town is a center of expansion of the oil palm plantation of Hacienda Asia Plantations Inc (HAPI), which grabs land from farmers and indigenous people. The 15th IB protects the company.

In Cauayan Town, the NPA fired at soldiers encamped and rampaging in Sitio Patol, Barangay Caliling, on March 9. The soldiers panicked and scampered in fear. To cover up the humiliation from the Red army’s attack, the soldiers spread false tales that their own troops merely quarreled and caused the gunfire.

A week later, the NPA hit the military detachment in Sitio Tagaytay, Barangay Narra, on March 16.

The unit carried out disarming operations against counterrevolutionaries and criminal elements in its jurisdiction on March 12 and March 19. Red fighters seized two firearms from their targets, proven guilty of offenses against the people and the revolutionary movement.

According to the unit, the armed actions were carried out amid ongoing focused military operations in the area, especially in the cities of Kabankalan and Sipalay, and the towns of Cauayan and Candoni. The military has deployed hundreds of troops and spent millions of pesos on these operations that began as early as February.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-southwest-negros-carries-out-5-military-actions-in-march/

NPA–Southwest Negros Carries Out 5 Military Actions In March

The New People’s Army (NPA)–Southwest Negros (Armando Sumayang Jr Command) reported that its units carried out five military actions in March. These included three harassment operations and two disarming actions.

On March 1, Red fighters fired at the 15th IB detachment in Barangay Haba, Candoni Town, Negros Occidental Province. The town is a center of expansion of the oil palm plantation of Hacienda Asia Plantations Inc (HAPI), which grabs land from farmers and indigenous people. The 15th IB protects the company.

In Cauayan Town, the NPA fired at soldiers encamped and rampaging in Sitio Patol, Barangay Caliling, on March 9. The soldiers panicked and scampered in fear. To cover up the humiliation from the Red army’s attack, the soldiers spread false tales that their own troops merely quarreled and caused the gunfire.

A week later, the NPA hit the military detachment in Sitio Tagaytay, Barangay Narra, on March 16.

The unit carried out disarming operations against counterrevolutionaries and criminal elements in its jurisdiction on March 12 and March 19. Red fighters seized two firearms from their targets, proven guilty of offenses against the people and the revolutionary movement.

According to the unit, the armed actions were carried out amid ongoing focused military operations in the area, especially in the cities of Kabankalan and Sipalay, and the towns of Cauayan and Candoni. The military has deployed hundreds of troops and spent millions of pesos on these operations that began as early as February.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-southwest-negros-carries-out-5-military-actions-in-march/

NDFP Statement On The Occasion Of The 57th Anniversary Of The Founding Of The NPA

Red salute to the New People’s Army on its 57th anniversary! With your steady advance, we join you in honoring the martyred people’s warriors and revolutionary masses of the armed struggle who have given their precious lives to keep the armed revolution alive for us today.

You have weathered the onslaught of eight reactionary administrations that inflicted the most brutal attacks upon the people’s army and the Filipino people, from nip-in-the-bud and encirclement-and-suppression campaigns; to clear-hold-consolidate and focused sustained military operations using hundreds and thousands of reactionary military and police troops supported by high tech weapons in their attempt to crush a guerrilla army that is not even one twentieth of its size. Because you have struck deep roots with the masses that gave strength the enemy troops can never conquer. The decades of bombings, hamletting, free-fire zones, massacres, torture, food blockades and psywar operations to isolate the oppressed masses from their army have only strengthened the people’s resolve to carry on the armed struggle.

By resolutely and actively carrying out the rectification movement, the people’s army today has steadily gained strength with the infusion of new and young Red fighters and commanders, developed tactical adjustments to the enemy’s high tech dependent operations, trained and re-trained Red fighters in comprehensive mass base building and guerrilla tactics, increased expansion and recovery areas, and rebuilt organizations that have been destroyed by intense and prolonged military operations while building new ones. All these amid the relentless military and psywar attacks by the fascist US-Marcos regime.

We observe this anniversary’s gains and challenges amid the present crisis and misery to the lives and livelihood of the Filipino people brought about by US imperialist aggression in the Middle East. The widespread people’s protest on the streets, schools, communities and the transport sector for immediate relief and lasting reforms are ignored by the callous US-Marcos regime that seeks only to serve the interests of its exploitative and oppressive masters. Calls for measures in parliament to repeal anti-people laws on oil deregulation and regressive taxes, or create new ones for land reform and national industrialization, are swamped by endless debates and political grandstanding resulting only on token measures designed to cover up the people’s miserable conditions. And as before, protest and resistance are met with fascist attacks on people’s rights using the whole violent state machinery for repression. These highlight once again the anti-people character of the reactionary state and the necessity for people’s war to overthrow the fascist puppet government and establish a democratic people’s government for real change that will benefit the people.

At the threat of an escalating and widening imperialist war, the Filipino people face the risk of being drawn into the war as magnets for attacks by US enemies. As the reactionary regime refuses to implement an independent foreign policy and pigheadedly hosts EDCA sites and other US military installations in the Philippines, the Filipino people must develop our own revolutionary armed force to defend our sovereignty. The New People’s Army and our revolutionary bases must be prepared to welcome patriotic Filipinos who want to take up arms but do not want to serve as cannon fodder for whichever imperialist power holds military command. We call on all patriotic Filipinos to prepare for a people’s war of resistance both in the rural and urban areas if the imperialist war comes to our shores.

Under the absolute leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army provides the sharpest and most disciplined tool for advancing the armed struggle as the primary form of people’s war. All allied organizations of the National Democratic Front commend and support your advance and are always ready to expand and consolidate our organizations for the armed struggle and to contribute more Red commanders and fighters to the people’s army. On this important date, we call on the people to march on in the struggle for national liberation and democracy.

Long live the New People’s Army!

Long live the National Democratic Revolution!

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/red-salute-to-the-new-peoples-army/

NDFP Statement On The Occasion Of The 57th Anniversary Of The Founding Of The NPA

Red salute to the New People’s Army on its 57th anniversary! With your steady advance, we join you in honoring the martyred people’s warriors and revolutionary masses of the armed struggle who have given their precious lives to keep the armed revolution alive for us today.

You have weathered the onslaught of eight reactionary administrations that inflicted the most brutal attacks upon the people’s army and the Filipino people, from nip-in-the-bud and encirclement-and-suppression campaigns; to clear-hold-consolidate and focused sustained military operations using hundreds and thousands of reactionary military and police troops supported by high tech weapons in their attempt to crush a guerrilla army that is not even one twentieth of its size. Because you have struck deep roots with the masses that gave strength the enemy troops can never conquer. The decades of bombings, hamletting, free-fire zones, massacres, torture, food blockades and psywar operations to isolate the oppressed masses from their army have only strengthened the people’s resolve to carry on the armed struggle.

By resolutely and actively carrying out the rectification movement, the people’s army today has steadily gained strength with the infusion of new and young Red fighters and commanders, developed tactical adjustments to the enemy’s high tech dependent operations, trained and re-trained Red fighters in comprehensive mass base building and guerrilla tactics, increased expansion and recovery areas, and rebuilt organizations that have been destroyed by intense and prolonged military operations while building new ones. All these amid the relentless military and psywar attacks by the fascist US-Marcos regime.

We observe this anniversary’s gains and challenges amid the present crisis and misery to the lives and livelihood of the Filipino people brought about by US imperialist aggression in the Middle East. The widespread people’s protest on the streets, schools, communities and the transport sector for immediate relief and lasting reforms are ignored by the callous US-Marcos regime that seeks only to serve the interests of its exploitative and oppressive masters. Calls for measures in parliament to repeal anti-people laws on oil deregulation and regressive taxes, or create new ones for land reform and national industrialization, are swamped by endless debates and political grandstanding resulting only on token measures designed to cover up the people’s miserable conditions. And as before, protest and resistance are met with fascist attacks on people’s rights using the whole violent state machinery for repression. These highlight once again the anti-people character of the reactionary state and the necessity for people’s war to overthrow the fascist puppet government and establish a democratic people’s government for real change that will benefit the people.

At the threat of an escalating and widening imperialist war, the Filipino people face the risk of being drawn into the war as magnets for attacks by US enemies. As the reactionary regime refuses to implement an independent foreign policy and pigheadedly hosts EDCA sites and other US military installations in the Philippines, the Filipino people must develop our own revolutionary armed force to defend our sovereignty. The New People’s Army and our revolutionary bases must be prepared to welcome patriotic Filipinos who want to take up arms but do not want to serve as cannon fodder for whichever imperialist power holds military command. We call on all patriotic Filipinos to prepare for a people’s war of resistance both in the rural and urban areas if the imperialist war comes to our shores.

Under the absolute leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army provides the sharpest and most disciplined tool for advancing the armed struggle as the primary form of people’s war. All allied organizations of the National Democratic Front commend and support your advance and are always ready to expand and consolidate our organizations for the armed struggle and to contribute more Red commanders and fighters to the people’s army. On this important date, we call on the people to march on in the struggle for national liberation and democracy.

Long live the New People’s Army!

Long live the National Democratic Revolution!

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/red-salute-to-the-new-peoples-army/

NPA Unit Foils Attack By AFP Troops In Occidental Mindoro Province

A New People’s Army (NPA)-Mindoro (Lucio De Guzman Command) unit fired first against 203rd IBde troopers that was attempting an attack on March 23. The fascist military failed to inflict any damage on the NPA-Mindoro unit stationed in Sitio Danlog, Barangay Monteclaro, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro Province that morning.

The unit’s spokesperson Ka Madaay Gasic said the Red fighters valiantly fought before safely withdrawing the entire unit without casualties. He said the battle disproves the 203rd IBde’s lies that no people’s army remain in the island of Mindoro.

He added that incidents like this show the NPA continuously frustrates the reactionary government’s aim to wipe out the revolutionary movement on the island under the “whole of nation approach.” The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is intensifying its attacks against the people’s army and even civilians under the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace and Development (NAP-UPD) of the US-Marcos regime.

Gasic further said the heavy, destructive and burdensome militarization against the Mindoreño masses only pushes peasants and the indigenous Mangyan people to align with the NPA. He said they demand accountability and justice against the fascist 203rd IBde and police forces.

“The overflowing determination of Red commanders and fighters continues in advancing the armed struggle to defeat the AFP-PNP-CAFGU forces, the number one enemies of the Mindoreño masses,” Gasic declared.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-mindoro-foils-attack-by-203rd-ibde/

NPA Unit Foils Attack By AFP Troops In Occidental Mindoro Province

A New People’s Army (NPA)-Mindoro (Lucio De Guzman Command) unit fired first against 203rd IBde troopers that was attempting an attack on March 23. The fascist military failed to inflict any damage on the NPA-Mindoro unit stationed in Sitio Danlog, Barangay Monteclaro, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro Province that morning.

The unit’s spokesperson Ka Madaay Gasic said the Red fighters valiantly fought before safely withdrawing the entire unit without casualties. He said the battle disproves the 203rd IBde’s lies that no people’s army remain in the island of Mindoro.

He added that incidents like this show the NPA continuously frustrates the reactionary government’s aim to wipe out the revolutionary movement on the island under the “whole of nation approach.” The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is intensifying its attacks against the people’s army and even civilians under the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace and Development (NAP-UPD) of the US-Marcos regime.

Gasic further said the heavy, destructive and burdensome militarization against the Mindoreño masses only pushes peasants and the indigenous Mangyan people to align with the NPA. He said they demand accountability and justice against the fascist 203rd IBde and police forces.

“The overflowing determination of Red commanders and fighters continues in advancing the armed struggle to defeat the AFP-PNP-CAFGU forces, the number one enemies of the Mindoreño masses,” Gasic declared.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-mindoro-foils-attack-by-203rd-ibde/

NPA Honors 3 Martyred Young Red Fighters In South Central Negros

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Southwest Negros (Armando Sumayang Jr Command) honored the three young Red fighters killed in combat with the 47th IB in Sitio Santol, Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental Province on March 21. Martyred were Ritchell Verano (Ka Makoy/Venom), 26 years old, Milky Sampini (Ka Gorting/Dores), 29, and Joedil (Ka Junjun/Cairo), 21.

The unit’s spokesperson Ka Andrea Guerrero said the three young fighters’ heroism illustrates why the NPA remains uncrushed by the reactionary state. “The youth and the next generation are ready to take upon themselves the responsibilities and the challenge of the times,” she said.

Verano, Sampini and Joedil capably fulfilled their respective duties within the people’s army. They served as NPA officers and Communist Party of the Philippines leaders at particular levels.

Verano came from the semi-proletarian class and was a resident of Carcar City, Cebu. He and his family moved to Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental Province. Here he linked up and became a member of Kabataang Makabayan (KM) in 2015. He joined the people’s army in 2017 in Central Negros and was assigned to Southwest Negros in 2025.

He was a Party Front Committee member at the time of his martyrdom and served as the NPA second platoon leader. “Verano is known for not refusing and diligently implementing responsibilities at any time,” Guerrero stated.

Sampini was a native of Barangay Lamugong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental Province. He became a Red fighter in 2016 and integrated in a South Central Negros front. He was later assigned to Southwest Negros and was squad leader at his martyrdom. According to the unit, Sampini was skilled in counter-intelligence work.

Meanwhile, the youngest martyr Joedil came from Sitio Tigbao, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental Province. He was recruited into KM in 2020 and joined the NPA in 2023 when he was of age. He toured in South Central Negros and was then assigned to Southwest Negros. He served as second squad leader.

The 3rd ID immediately seized the opportunity to psywar the Red fighters and slander the revolutionary movement upon the martyrdom of the three. Division commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson called on them to “abandon armed struggle and return to society” to supposedly avoid death.

In contrast, Guerrero declared that the three martyrs will surely inspire the Red fighters to attain the aspiration of the Negrosanon masses. “The NPA-Southwest Negros is optimistic replacements will come and even more youth will accept the call to take up arms and join the NPA, especially with the worsening crisis of the rotten system represented by the US-Marcos II regime,” she said.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-honors-3-martyred-young-red-fighters-in-south-central-negros/

NPA Honors 3 Martyred Young Red Fighters In South Central Negros

The New People’s Army (NPA)-Southwest Negros (Armando Sumayang Jr Command) honored the three young Red fighters killed in combat with the 47th IB in Sitio Santol, Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental Province on March 21. Martyred were Ritchell Verano (Ka Makoy/Venom), 26 years old, Milky Sampini (Ka Gorting/Dores), 29, and Joedil (Ka Junjun/Cairo), 21.

The unit’s spokesperson Ka Andrea Guerrero said the three young fighters’ heroism illustrates why the NPA remains uncrushed by the reactionary state. “The youth and the next generation are ready to take upon themselves the responsibilities and the challenge of the times,” she said.

Verano, Sampini and Joedil capably fulfilled their respective duties within the people’s army. They served as NPA officers and Communist Party of the Philippines leaders at particular levels.

Verano came from the semi-proletarian class and was a resident of Carcar City, Cebu. He and his family moved to Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental Province. Here he linked up and became a member of Kabataang Makabayan (KM) in 2015. He joined the people’s army in 2017 in Central Negros and was assigned to Southwest Negros in 2025.

He was a Party Front Committee member at the time of his martyrdom and served as the NPA second platoon leader. “Verano is known for not refusing and diligently implementing responsibilities at any time,” Guerrero stated.

Sampini was a native of Barangay Lamugong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental Province. He became a Red fighter in 2016 and integrated in a South Central Negros front. He was later assigned to Southwest Negros and was squad leader at his martyrdom. According to the unit, Sampini was skilled in counter-intelligence work.

Meanwhile, the youngest martyr Joedil came from Sitio Tigbao, Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental Province. He was recruited into KM in 2020 and joined the NPA in 2023 when he was of age. He toured in South Central Negros and was then assigned to Southwest Negros. He served as second squad leader.

The 3rd ID immediately seized the opportunity to psywar the Red fighters and slander the revolutionary movement upon the martyrdom of the three. Division commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson called on them to “abandon armed struggle and return to society” to supposedly avoid death.

In contrast, Guerrero declared that the three martyrs will surely inspire the Red fighters to attain the aspiration of the Negrosanon masses. “The NPA-Southwest Negros is optimistic replacements will come and even more youth will accept the call to take up arms and join the NPA, especially with the worsening crisis of the rotten system represented by the US-Marcos II regime,” she said.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/angbayan/npa-honors-3-martyred-young-red-fighters-in-south-central-negros/

Ariel Badiang
Ariel Badiang, 64, a peace consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in Southern Mindanao Region, has been missing since Feb. 6, 2023. Read about it: NDFP consultant still missing after 3 years
The post Ariel Badiang appeared first on Bulatlat.
https://www.bulatlat.com/2026/03/25/ariel-badiang/

#bulatlat #philippines #Aparicin #Desaparecidos #Disappearedndfppeaceconsultants #Enforceddisappearance #NDFP

Women Are Steadfast Warriors Against US-Imperialism: PRWC

On the occasion of International Women’s Working Women’s Day, we salute the women who make factory machines hum, till the fields, keep the home running in order, and do all the other indispensable but belittled “odd” jobs inside and outside to make the world a livable place for everyone.

We salute the revolutionary working women of the world who fought and still fight for liberation and equality of women and oppressed peoples against imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism that engender all forms of patriarchal oppression and exploitation. We remember courageous women like the socialist Clara Zetkin and her colleagues who pushed to put March 8, International Women’s Day on the world’s calendar as a reminder of women’s struggle for equal rights and liberation against capitalism and imperialism.

We salute the Filipina who sacrificed life and limb in the revolutionary armed struggle in the countryside and the revolutionary urban underground to advance liberation against national, class and gender oppression in the national democratic movement, and also in the progressive and democratic protest movements nationwide. The tradition of Lorena Barros, Liza Balando, and Lilliosa Hilao continues on to Myrna Sularte, Concha Araneta, Hannah Cesista, and thousands of named and unnamed women fighters all over the country.

As patriarchal and misogynist imperialist rulers continue to plunge the world into chaos today by distorting economies through trade impositions, imposing starvation through sanctions, invading sovereign countries and bombing rivals in their quest for global hegemony, it is the oppressed peoples, many of them women, who bear the brunt of suffering. In Palestine, Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, Nigeria, Somalia, Yemen and Syria, US imperialists have killed or violated thousands of women and children and destroyed the lives and livelihood of their families. In neocolonies like the Philippines and other countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Pacific, US imperialism continues to intensify plunder and worsen poverty while supporting puppet governments with funds and weapons to wage war against their own people. Against their own women.

It is the scourge of imperialism that grants license to men in power in dominant nations to viciously torture and massacre women and children abroad in the name of greatness or national security while lasciviously brutalizing and sexually exploiting women and children in pedophiles’ special islands in their own country. It is the same system that grants impunity to local bureaucrat-capitalist despots and militaries in neocolonies such as the Philippines to employ brutal sexual assault as state weapons against women whom they perceive as threats to their positions of power while condoning misogynistic descriptions of women as objects of lust in open and official government discourse.

But because women bear the brunt of imposed suffering, women are also among the most active and steadfast in resisting imperialist aggression and domestic repression. The fight to defend their dignity, their rights, the safety and well-being of their families and the security of livelihood necessarily becomes the fight against class exploiters and oppressors.

The Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines’ sole all-women member-organization, continues to grow all over the Philippines, spearheading the struggle for women’s liberation within the national democratic movement. And because we uphold women’s liberation, as clearly stated in #11 of our 12-point program, the whole united front likewise continues to arouse, organize and mobilize women in all other organizations among the proletariat, the urban poor, youth, peasants, indigenous peoples, cultural activists and professionals. As more women participate in the revolution, they enrich the perspectives of the revolutionary movement with their own lived experiences as women and start the process of their own liberation from patriarchal strictures and stereotypes.

Today’s intensifying conditions of poverty and repression call on the national democratic movement, the women’s mass movement and all progressive forces to also intensify the struggle against US imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. Revolutionary mass organizations must expand and consolidate their ranks, drawing in as many women as possible to their organizations. Women must not only continue to form the bulk of the membership but also develop more leaders of the national democratic movement and more commanders of the New People’s Army. They must increase their presence and actively participate in global anti-imperialist solidarity networks. Together with all oppressed peoples, the women’s movement must develop a solid front against US imperialism, the number one enemy of women in our own country and worldwide.

Long live the Filipino people’s struggle against imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism!

Long live the Filipino people’s struggle for women’s liberation!

Oppressed women of the world, unite!

Source link

Women Are Steadfast Warriors Against US-Imperialism: PRWC

On the occasion of International Women’s Working Women’s Day, we salute the women who make factory machines hum, till the fields, keep the home running in order, and do all the other indispensable but belittled “odd” jobs inside and outside to make the world a livable place for everyone.

We salute the revolutionary working women of the world who fought and still fight for liberation and equality of women and oppressed peoples against imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism that engender all forms of patriarchal oppression and exploitation. We remember courageous women like the socialist Clara Zetkin and her colleagues who pushed to put March 8, International Women’s Day on the world’s calendar as a reminder of women’s struggle for equal rights and liberation against capitalism and imperialism.

We salute the Filipina who sacrificed life and limb in the revolutionary armed struggle in the countryside and the revolutionary urban underground to advance liberation against national, class and gender oppression in the national democratic movement, and also in the progressive and democratic protest movements nationwide. The tradition of Lorena Barros, Liza Balando, and Lilliosa Hilao continues on to Myrna Sularte, Concha Araneta, Hannah Cesista, and thousands of named and unnamed women fighters all over the country.

As patriarchal and misogynist imperialist rulers continue to plunge the world into chaos today by distorting economies through trade impositions, imposing starvation through sanctions, invading sovereign countries and bombing rivals in their quest for global hegemony, it is the oppressed peoples, many of them women, who bear the brunt of suffering. In Palestine, Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, Nigeria, Somalia, Yemen and Syria, US imperialists have killed or violated thousands of women and children and destroyed the lives and livelihood of their families. In neocolonies like the Philippines and other countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Pacific, US imperialism continues to intensify plunder and worsen poverty while supporting puppet governments with funds and weapons to wage war against their own people. Against their own women.

It is the scourge of imperialism that grants license to men in power in dominant nations to viciously torture and massacre women and children abroad in the name of greatness or national security while lasciviously brutalizing and sexually exploiting women and children in pedophiles’ special islands in their own country. It is the same system that grants impunity to local bureaucrat-capitalist despots and militaries in neocolonies such as the Philippines to employ brutal sexual assault as state weapons against women whom they perceive as threats to their positions of power while condoning misogynistic descriptions of women as objects of lust in open and official government discourse.

But because women bear the brunt of imposed suffering, women are also among the most active and steadfast in resisting imperialist aggression and domestic repression. The fight to defend their dignity, their rights, the safety and well-being of their families and the security of livelihood necessarily becomes the fight against class exploiters and oppressors.

The Makabayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines’ sole all-women member-organization, continues to grow all over the Philippines, spearheading the struggle for women’s liberation within the national democratic movement. And because we uphold women’s liberation, as clearly stated in #11 of our 12-point program, the whole united front likewise continues to arouse, organize and mobilize women in all other organizations among the proletariat, the urban poor, youth, peasants, indigenous peoples, cultural activists and professionals. As more women participate in the revolution, they enrich the perspectives of the revolutionary movement with their own lived experiences as women and start the process of their own liberation from patriarchal strictures and stereotypes.

Today’s intensifying conditions of poverty and repression call on the national democratic movement, the women’s mass movement and all progressive forces to also intensify the struggle against US imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism. Revolutionary mass organizations must expand and consolidate their ranks, drawing in as many women as possible to their organizations. Women must not only continue to form the bulk of the membership but also develop more leaders of the national democratic movement and more commanders of the New People’s Army. They must increase their presence and actively participate in global anti-imperialist solidarity networks. Together with all oppressed peoples, the women’s movement must develop a solid front against US imperialism, the number one enemy of women in our own country and worldwide.

Long live the Filipino people’s struggle against imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism!

Long live the Filipino people’s struggle for women’s liberation!

Oppressed women of the world, unite!

Source link

NPA Units Carry Out Punitive Actions Against 2 AFP Intelligence Assets In Negros Occidental Province

Last night (February 28) at about 8:30 & 9:10 p.m. respectively, special operations units of Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) implemented the standing order of the people’s court on two armed military intelligence assets in Sitio Biga and Sitio Malasaging both in Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental Province.

Eddie Catipay, a staunch Intel asset in the locality and; Jerry Lapus, responsible for the encounter in Sitio Mansulao, Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City on February 21, 2024—resulting in the death of two Red fighters and one farmer who was tending a nearby rice field. Confiscated firearms are two .45 caliber and .357 pistols with ammunition.

The punitive actions were carried out even amidst almost two months of military operations in the area. This disproves #DiMasaligan79th IB’s braggadocio on the “decisiveness” of “Battle of Pinapugasan” in eliminating the revolutionary armed movement in Northern Negros. It was, in fact, a single defensive engagement in which a superior enemy force failed to wipe out a small guerrilla unit. The said unit was able to maneuver through a fierce firefight and recover strength afterwards.

Justice is served for the martyred revolutionaries Emarie “Ka Janine” Pastidio and Joshua “Ka George” Sultan, farmer Jose Caramihan and all the victims of red tagging, surveillance, threat, coercion and harassment. This is surely a reassurance for the masses who continuously support the movement, and will inspire revolutionaries to continue the struggle through the path of armed resistance.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/back-to-back-rjpc-npa-actions-in-escalante-yield-3-firearms/

NPA Units Carry Out Punitive Actions Against 2 AFP Intelligence Assets In Negros Occidental Province

Last night (February 28) at about 8:30 & 9:10 p.m. respectively, special operations units of Roselyn Jean Pelle Command-New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) implemented the standing order of the people’s court on two armed military intelligence assets in Sitio Biga and Sitio Malasaging both in Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental Province.

Eddie Catipay, a staunch Intel asset in the locality and; Jerry Lapus, responsible for the encounter in Sitio Mansulao, Barangay Pinapugasan, Escalante City on February 21, 2024—resulting in the death of two Red fighters and one farmer who was tending a nearby rice field. Confiscated firearms are two .45 caliber and .357 pistols with ammunition.

The punitive actions were carried out even amidst almost two months of military operations in the area. This disproves #DiMasaligan79th IB’s braggadocio on the “decisiveness” of “Battle of Pinapugasan” in eliminating the revolutionary armed movement in Northern Negros. It was, in fact, a single defensive engagement in which a superior enemy force failed to wipe out a small guerrilla unit. The said unit was able to maneuver through a fierce firefight and recover strength afterwards.

Justice is served for the martyred revolutionaries Emarie “Ka Janine” Pastidio and Joshua “Ka George” Sultan, farmer Jose Caramihan and all the victims of red tagging, surveillance, threat, coercion and harassment. This is surely a reassurance for the masses who continuously support the movement, and will inspire revolutionaries to continue the struggle through the path of armed resistance.

Source : https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/back-to-back-rjpc-npa-actions-in-escalante-yield-3-firearms/

Marcos Jr. Sells Out PH Patrimony, Feeds the US War Machine in Critical Minerals Deal With Trump

The recently signed Philippines-United States Critical Minerals Pact last February 4 is a clear sell-out of Philippine natural resources to US imperialist interests. This agreement is part of US attempts to secure cheap and strategic raw materials for the US to tighten control over critical minerals supply chains as it intensifies its economic and political confrontation with China.

The term “critical minerals” refer to minerals and metals that are essential to modern industrial production, renewable energy systems and military technologies. These “rare earth” minerals are essential in the manufacturing of batteries, semiconductors, renewable energy infrastructure, as well as weapons systems. They are considered “critical” because of their strategic importance and the high risk of supply disruption due to concentrated global production and processing.

China currently controls over 69% of global rare earth production and nearly 90% of rare earth processing and refining, as well as commanding major shares of lithium, cobalt, graphite, and nickel processing. The US by contrast, is scrambling to catch up. Last February 4, the US convened a critical minerals ministerial summit with its Western allies, explicitly aimed at shoring up investments to create a critical minerals supply chain independent of Chinese influence.

As early as 2023, right after the US signed an agreement to develop battery technology for electric vehicles with Japan on March 2023, the US has been deliberately preparing the ground for the critical minerals agreement with the Philippines. In November 2023, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) financed a $5 million technical assistance program aimed at mapping resources, reforming domestic regulations, and aligning the mining sector with US supply chain requirements.

The US push for a critical minerals deal with the Philippines is not geared toward building lasting national industries in the country. To date, there are no binding commitments to establish full local processing capacity or ensuring technology transfer. Instead, this critical minerals pact with the Marcos Jr. regime is focused on integrating the Philippines’ substantial reserves of copper, nickel, and cobalt into a US-controlled supply chain.

This pattern of resource predation extends beyond the Philippines. In Venezuela, the US escalated military aggression, abducted President Nicolás Maduro, and now exerts control over the country’s oil outputs, boosting Venezuelan oil exports to the US while displacing Chinese offtake. In January 2026, under US control, Venezuelan oil exports climbed to about 800,000 barrels per day, with approximately 284,000 barrels per day going to the US, as Chinese imports fell. This shift serves US imperialist interests, recompenses major US oil companies such as Chevron, and entrenches Trump’s grip on Venezuelan natural wealth at the expense of the country’s sovereignty and the people’s welfare.

Similarly, the attack on a uranium storage facility in Niger on January 29 (carried out by ISIL and targeting a country whose current regime is backed by Russia) has been linked to attempts to seize control of uranium supplies, another critical mineral central to nuclear energy and weapons systems.

The same logic is being applied to the Philippines. As a semicolonial and semifeudal country, the country is viewed by US imperialism as a site for cheap raw material extraction and a dumping ground for surplus commodities.

Ultimately, Marcos Jr.’s sell-out of the country’s patrimony will serve to feed US war industries. Critical minerals extracted cheaply from the Philippines will be funneled into US-controlled supply chains that underpin advanced weapons systems and military electronics, strengthening the US war machine while the Filipino people bear the costs of extraction, environmental degradation, and even the risk of being collateral damage in a war not of their own making. By tying the Filipino people’s mineral wealth to the US military-industrial complex, Marcos Jr not only surrenders economic sovereignty, but also drags the Philippines deeper into preparations for future wars that do not serve the interests of its people.

source: NDFP

Marcos Jr. Sells Out PH Patrimony, Feeds the US War Machine in Critical Minerals Deal With Trump

The recently signed Philippines-United States Critical Minerals Pact last February 4 is a clear sell-out of Philippine natural resources to US imperialist interests. This agreement is part of US attempts to secure cheap and strategic raw materials for the US to tighten control over critical minerals supply chains as it intensifies its economic and political confrontation with China.

The term “critical minerals” refer to minerals and metals that are essential to modern industrial production, renewable energy systems and military technologies. These “rare earth” minerals are essential in the manufacturing of batteries, semiconductors, renewable energy infrastructure, as well as weapons systems. They are considered “critical” because of their strategic importance and the high risk of supply disruption due to concentrated global production and processing.

China currently controls over 69% of global rare earth production and nearly 90% of rare earth processing and refining, as well as commanding major shares of lithium, cobalt, graphite, and nickel processing. The US by contrast, is scrambling to catch up. Last February 4, the US convened a critical minerals ministerial summit with its Western allies, explicitly aimed at shoring up investments to create a critical minerals supply chain independent of Chinese influence.

As early as 2023, right after the US signed an agreement to develop battery technology for electric vehicles with Japan on March 2023, the US has been deliberately preparing the ground for the critical minerals agreement with the Philippines. In November 2023, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) financed a $5 million technical assistance program aimed at mapping resources, reforming domestic regulations, and aligning the mining sector with US supply chain requirements.

The US push for a critical minerals deal with the Philippines is not geared toward building lasting national industries in the country. To date, there are no binding commitments to establish full local processing capacity or ensuring technology transfer. Instead, this critical minerals pact with the Marcos Jr. regime is focused on integrating the Philippines’ substantial reserves of copper, nickel, and cobalt into a US-controlled supply chain.

This pattern of resource predation extends beyond the Philippines. In Venezuela, the US escalated military aggression, abducted President Nicolás Maduro, and now exerts control over the country’s oil outputs, boosting Venezuelan oil exports to the US while displacing Chinese offtake. In January 2026, under US control, Venezuelan oil exports climbed to about 800,000 barrels per day, with approximately 284,000 barrels per day going to the US, as Chinese imports fell. This shift serves US imperialist interests, recompenses major US oil companies such as Chevron, and entrenches Trump’s grip on Venezuelan natural wealth at the expense of the country’s sovereignty and the people’s welfare.

Similarly, the attack on a uranium storage facility in Niger on January 29 (carried out by ISIL and targeting a country whose current regime is backed by Russia) has been linked to attempts to seize control of uranium supplies, another critical mineral central to nuclear energy and weapons systems.

The same logic is being applied to the Philippines. As a semicolonial and semifeudal country, the country is viewed by US imperialism as a site for cheap raw material extraction and a dumping ground for surplus commodities.

Ultimately, Marcos Jr.’s sell-out of the country’s patrimony will serve to feed US war industries. Critical minerals extracted cheaply from the Philippines will be funneled into US-controlled supply chains that underpin advanced weapons systems and military electronics, strengthening the US war machine while the Filipino people bear the costs of extraction, environmental degradation, and even the risk of being collateral damage in a war not of their own making. By tying the Filipino people’s mineral wealth to the US military-industrial complex, Marcos Jr not only surrenders economic sovereignty, but also drags the Philippines deeper into preparations for future wars that do not serve the interests of its people.

source: NDFP

No Peace to Be Found Among Warmongers – NDFP

The recent news that US President Donald Trump has invited Marcos Jr. to sit on his so-called “board of peace” is beyond absurd. There is no peace to be found among warmongers and mass murderers. What both Trump and Marcos Jr. represent instead is the peace of the graveyard marked by the silence enforced by bombs, bullets, and a climate of fear and impunity.

Trump’s attempt to posture himself as a “peacemaker” is exposed by his own record of unabashed US warmongering from military aggression and regime-change operations in Syria, Venezuela, and Iran, to his brazen threats against Greenland and even Canada, In the United States, Trump has unleashed brutal attacks against immigrants, and activists, criminalizing dissent and stoking racist violence, further isolating himself alongside a government of loyal sycophants.

Under the Marcos Jr. regime, at least 48,200 people, mostly peasants and indigenous communities, have been forcibly displaced as a result of relentless aerial bombardment and intensified “counterinsurgency” operations across the Philippine countryside. At least 15 individuals have been forcibly disappeared, while more are killed including NDFP peace panel consultants and negotiators. At least 134 civilians have been murdered, including children and women, as the fascist Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continues indiscriminate bombings and ground operations that violate international humanitarian law.

Far from pursuing genuine peace, the Marcos Jr. regime has consistently refused to address the roots of armed conflict – chronic landlessness, joblessness, and poverty.  Decades of failed agrarian reform programs have left millions of farmers landless, with 7 out of 10 farmers still unable to own the land they till, and condemned instead to semifeudal and feudal forms of exploitation. Workers’ wages are virtually stagnant. In 2025, incomes rose a measly 7.5%, far below the skyrocketing inflation of basic goods and necessities, effectively eroding real incomes and pushing more families into hunger and debt. Instead of confronting these structural injustices, Marcos Jr. has chosen the familiar path of militarization and fascist repression, branding any form of dissent as “terrorism.”

It is therefore no wonder that more and more Filipinos are joining the armed struggle in the countryside. Much like his father, Marcos Jr. has increasingly groomed himself as the number one recruiter of the New People’s Army.

That Marcos Jr. now finds himself embraced by Trump comes also as no surprise. Marcos Jr. has proven himself a loyal lapdog of US imperialism, faithfully implementing Trumps’ military, economic and geopolitical agenda. Recently, the US itself revealed the formation of a new permanent ground force in the country: the so-called “Army Rotational Force Philippines” further confirming the accelerated militarization being carried out under Marcos Jr.’s watch. This new US troop deployment exists alongside other US units such as Task Force Philippines and the Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia, signaling a state of perpetual US military presence on Philippine soil. This expansion also coincides with the deployment of US Typhon mid-range missile systems last year, the use of US drones, establishment of additional EDCA bases, and plans for over 500 large-scale military exercises involving more than ten thousand foreign troops in 2026 alone.

The farce of Marcos Jr.’s inclusion in Trump’s so-called “board of peace” is a futile PR tactic to launder the crimes of warmakers and US puppets. A harbinger of war, Marcos Jr. recklessly drags the Philippines closer to catastrophic US conflict with China out of his desperation to please Trump and his imperialist patrons.

Marcos Jr. is increasingly isolated. Recent impeachment complaints filed against him reflect the widespread people’s outrage over his regime’s brazen corruption and betrayal of the Filipino masses. The reactionary Philippine Congress may have blocked these actions to impeach Marcos Jr., but they cannot suppress the growing, uncontainable anger of the Filipino people.

Source: https://ndfp.info/no-peace-to-be-found-among-warmongers/

No Peace to Be Found Among Warmongers – NDFP

The recent news that US President Donald Trump has invited Marcos Jr. to sit on his so-called “board of peace” is beyond absurd. There is no peace to be found among warmongers and mass murderers. What both Trump and Marcos Jr. represent instead is the peace of the graveyard marked by the silence enforced by bombs, bullets, and a climate of fear and impunity.

Trump’s attempt to posture himself as a “peacemaker” is exposed by his own record of unabashed US warmongering from military aggression and regime-change operations in Syria, Venezuela, and Iran, to his brazen threats against Greenland and even Canada, In the United States, Trump has unleashed brutal attacks against immigrants, and activists, criminalizing dissent and stoking racist violence, further isolating himself alongside a government of loyal sycophants.

Under the Marcos Jr. regime, at least 48,200 people, mostly peasants and indigenous communities, have been forcibly displaced as a result of relentless aerial bombardment and intensified “counterinsurgency” operations across the Philippine countryside. At least 15 individuals have been forcibly disappeared, while more are killed including NDFP peace panel consultants and negotiators. At least 134 civilians have been murdered, including children and women, as the fascist Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continues indiscriminate bombings and ground operations that violate international humanitarian law.

Far from pursuing genuine peace, the Marcos Jr. regime has consistently refused to address the roots of armed conflict – chronic landlessness, joblessness, and poverty.  Decades of failed agrarian reform programs have left millions of farmers landless, with 7 out of 10 farmers still unable to own the land they till, and condemned instead to semifeudal and feudal forms of exploitation. Workers’ wages are virtually stagnant. In 2025, incomes rose a measly 7.5%, far below the skyrocketing inflation of basic goods and necessities, effectively eroding real incomes and pushing more families into hunger and debt. Instead of confronting these structural injustices, Marcos Jr. has chosen the familiar path of militarization and fascist repression, branding any form of dissent as “terrorism.”

It is therefore no wonder that more and more Filipinos are joining the armed struggle in the countryside. Much like his father, Marcos Jr. has increasingly groomed himself as the number one recruiter of the New People’s Army.

That Marcos Jr. now finds himself embraced by Trump comes also as no surprise. Marcos Jr. has proven himself a loyal lapdog of US imperialism, faithfully implementing Trumps’ military, economic and geopolitical agenda. Recently, the US itself revealed the formation of a new permanent ground force in the country: the so-called “Army Rotational Force Philippines” further confirming the accelerated militarization being carried out under Marcos Jr.’s watch. This new US troop deployment exists alongside other US units such as Task Force Philippines and the Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia, signaling a state of perpetual US military presence on Philippine soil. This expansion also coincides with the deployment of US Typhon mid-range missile systems last year, the use of US drones, establishment of additional EDCA bases, and plans for over 500 large-scale military exercises involving more than ten thousand foreign troops in 2026 alone.

The farce of Marcos Jr.’s inclusion in Trump’s so-called “board of peace” is a futile PR tactic to launder the crimes of warmakers and US puppets. A harbinger of war, Marcos Jr. recklessly drags the Philippines closer to catastrophic US conflict with China out of his desperation to please Trump and his imperialist patrons.

Marcos Jr. is increasingly isolated. Recent impeachment complaints filed against him reflect the widespread people’s outrage over his regime’s brazen corruption and betrayal of the Filipino masses. The reactionary Philippine Congress may have blocked these actions to impeach Marcos Jr., but they cannot suppress the growing, uncontainable anger of the Filipino people.

Source: https://ndfp.info/no-peace-to-be-found-among-warmongers/

On the War Crime of Disproportionate Use of Force and Bombing That Killed 3 Mangyan-Iraya Children in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro

There is no military, legal or moral justification for the relentless bombardment carried out by the 203rd Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro last January 1 that killed three Mangyan-Iraya children and terrorized entire Mangyan communities. Reports suggest that the AFP dropped at least 12 bombs and conducted aerial strafing in the area. These bombings and indiscriminate firing against civilians are tantamount to war crimes, and the NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children hold the 203rd IB and Marcos Jr. as their commander-in-chief, directly responsible.

Under International Humanitarian Law, the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution are absolute. The bombing of areas where the Mangyan national minorities live constitutes a blatant and deliberate violation of these principles. The deaths of the three children, two youth, and now the AFP’s continuing refusal to release an unarmed civilian in their custody expose that the AFP’s so-called “counterinsurgency operations” are in essence indiscriminate attacks on civilians.

These attacks are grossly disproportionate, and the AFP knew fully well and yet deliberately ignored that Mangyan-Iraya children and civilian families would be in the areas they were bombing. But they proceeded regardless.

Since the time of war criminal Gen. Jovito Palparan, Mindoro Island has been turned into a permanent killing field, with the 203rd IB at the center of systematic violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. For decades, Indigenous Mangyan communities have been subjected to indiscriminate bombings, enforced evacuations, food blockades, the military occupation of civilian spaces, the harassment, and interrogation of children, and the routine collapse of the distinction between civilian and combatant. Under the current Marcos Jr. regime, Mindoro is effectively under de facto martial law, marked by constant troop deployment, aerial bombardment, checkpoints, surveillance, and restrictions on movement – conditions under which Mangyan communities, and especially children, continue to be treated as expendable in an ongoing counterrevolutionary war against the people.

We demand the immediate cessation of all AFP military operations in Mindoro, including aerial bombings, combat patrols, and so-called “clearing operations” that continue to place Mangyan communities in grave danger. The de facto state of martial law in the island must stop.

We further demand the immediate release of Chantal Anicoche, whose continued detention under the custody of the AFP forms part of a broader campaign of repression against those defending the rights of indigenous communities. We warn the Marcos Jr. government and the AFP that the international community is watching closely, and that those responsible will have their day of reckoning.

The NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children will continue to monitor, document and expose these violations of IHL and children’s rights committed in Mindoro, and will pursue all available avenues to hold perpetrators accountable. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the three Mangyan-Iraya children and to all victims of militarization in Mindoro.

Coni Ledesma, NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children

On the War Crime of Disproportionate Use of Force and Bombing That Killed 3 Mangyan-Iraya Children in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro

There is no military, legal or moral justification for the relentless bombardment carried out by the 203rd Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro last January 1 that killed three Mangyan-Iraya children and terrorized entire Mangyan communities. Reports suggest that the AFP dropped at least 12 bombs and conducted aerial strafing in the area. These bombings and indiscriminate firing against civilians are tantamount to war crimes, and the NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children hold the 203rd IB and Marcos Jr. as their commander-in-chief, directly responsible.

Under International Humanitarian Law, the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution are absolute. The bombing of areas where the Mangyan national minorities live constitutes a blatant and deliberate violation of these principles. The deaths of the three children, two youth, and now the AFP’s continuing refusal to release an unarmed civilian in their custody expose that the AFP’s so-called “counterinsurgency operations” are in essence indiscriminate attacks on civilians.

These attacks are grossly disproportionate, and the AFP knew fully well and yet deliberately ignored that Mangyan-Iraya children and civilian families would be in the areas they were bombing. But they proceeded regardless.

Since the time of war criminal Gen. Jovito Palparan, Mindoro Island has been turned into a permanent killing field, with the 203rd IB at the center of systematic violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. For decades, Indigenous Mangyan communities have been subjected to indiscriminate bombings, enforced evacuations, food blockades, the military occupation of civilian spaces, the harassment, and interrogation of children, and the routine collapse of the distinction between civilian and combatant. Under the current Marcos Jr. regime, Mindoro is effectively under de facto martial law, marked by constant troop deployment, aerial bombardment, checkpoints, surveillance, and restrictions on movement – conditions under which Mangyan communities, and especially children, continue to be treated as expendable in an ongoing counterrevolutionary war against the people.

We demand the immediate cessation of all AFP military operations in Mindoro, including aerial bombings, combat patrols, and so-called “clearing operations” that continue to place Mangyan communities in grave danger. The de facto state of martial law in the island must stop.

We further demand the immediate release of Chantal Anicoche, whose continued detention under the custody of the AFP forms part of a broader campaign of repression against those defending the rights of indigenous communities. We warn the Marcos Jr. government and the AFP that the international community is watching closely, and that those responsible will have their day of reckoning.

The NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children will continue to monitor, document and expose these violations of IHL and children’s rights committed in Mindoro, and will pursue all available avenues to hold perpetrators accountable. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the three Mangyan-Iraya children and to all victims of militarization in Mindoro.

Coni Ledesma, NDFP Special Office for the Protection of Children

US Imperialism Wages War Against Venezuela Amid Strategic Decline

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) International Office condemns in the strongest terms the United States’ bombing of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, its open military aggression against Venezuelan territory, and the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro. These actions represent a blatant violation of Venezuelan sovereignty, international laws, and yet another chapter in the long and bloody history of US imperialist intervention in Latin America and the Caribbean.

US imperialism, facing strategic decline and overlapping crises, is waging a war against Venezuela in a desperate attempt to maintain its hegemon status. In its 2025 National Security Strategy, the US government itself admits that it “will reassert and enforce the Monroe Doctrine to restore American preeminence in the Western Hemisphere, and to protect our homeland and our access to key geographies throughout the region.” It goes on to say that it seeks to “deny non-Hemispheric competitors the ability to position forces or other threatening capabilities, or to own or control strategically vital assets, in our Hemisphere.”

The real objective of US aggression against Venezuela is not the fictitious “war on narcotics,” nor any concern for democracy or human rights. What US imperialism seeks is control over Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and strategic resources, control over its political orientation, and control over the direction of LAC as a whole.

A key motivation behind US attempts to control Venezuela and reassert dominance over the LAC region is its sharpening inter-imperialist rivalry with China and the accompanying economic stagnation that has plagued the global imperialist system in the past decades. In this context, the US seeks to prevent China from establishing economic, political, or military footholds in the region, particularly as the former explores military cooperation and expands basing arrangements in other parts of the world. Venezuela’s continuing assertion of national sovereignty, its potential alignment with the US government’s primary imperialist rival, its refusal to submit to US economic and military domination therefore make it a prime target for destabilization and attack.

This aggression is part of a broader offensive across the region under the Trump administration, which has intensified coercion against Latin American and Caribbean countries that deviate from US imperialist interests. Sanctions imposed against Colombia’s president in October 2025, open meddling in the electoral processes of Honduras and Argentina, and renewed threats against Mexico all point to a coordinated effort to control the region.

This same imperialist policy is fully at work in the Philippines. In recent years, the US has deployed advanced missile platforms across the archipelago, including the Typhon mid-range missile system, which is capable of launching Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and SM-6 missiles. These deployments have been accompanied by repeated rotations of HIMARS rocket systems, which can deliver long-range precision strikes. The US has escalated the scale and aggressiveness of the Balikatan war exercises, transforming them into full-spectrum war simulations involving missile launches, amphibious assaults, and integrated command-and-control systems. These exercises and missile deployment programs are explicitly aligned with the US “first island chain” strategy and are designed to position the Philippines as a forward operating base in a potential war against China.

To fully realize this objective, US imperialism seeks to crush the national liberation movement in the Philippines, which stands as a major obstacle to the permanent militarization of the country. This is why the Trump administration continues to provide political backing, military aid, intelligence support, and supervision to the Marcos regime and the fascist Armed Forces of the Philippines as it wages a brutal counterrevolutionary war against the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army and the broad revolutionary mass movement. The suppression of the people’s democratic revolution in the Philippines and the attacks against Venezuela’s anti-imperialist government are meant to create a stable platform for further imperialist wars. Just as Venezuela is bombed and besieged to enforce US dominance in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Philippines is militarized and subjected to counterrevolutionary violence to secure US control in Asia Pacific.

Whether in Venezuela or in the Philippines, US imperialism seeks to maintain its hegemony by tightening its grip over the semicolonies, waging wars against nations assertive of their sovereignty, and crushing all efforts by peoples to chart an independent path free from US imperialism and its hegemonic program.

The Filipino revolutionary movement affirms its full solidarity with the Venezuelan people in their valiant resistance against US imperialism. The NDFP has a long history of friendly relations with the people of and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, forged through shared struggles against foreign intervention and local ruling classes subservient to the US. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Venezuelan masses in the common struggle for sovereignty and against US imperialism.

Stand with Venezuela against US imperialist aggression!
Down with US imperialism!

US Imperialism Wages War Against Venezuela Amid Strategic Decline

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) International Office condemns in the strongest terms the United States’ bombing of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, its open military aggression against Venezuelan territory, and the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro. These actions represent a blatant violation of Venezuelan sovereignty, international laws, and yet another chapter in the long and bloody history of US imperialist intervention in Latin America and the Caribbean.

US imperialism, facing strategic decline and overlapping crises, is waging a war against Venezuela in a desperate attempt to maintain its hegemon status. In its 2025 National Security Strategy, the US government itself admits that it “will reassert and enforce the Monroe Doctrine to restore American preeminence in the Western Hemisphere, and to protect our homeland and our access to key geographies throughout the region.” It goes on to say that it seeks to “deny non-Hemispheric competitors the ability to position forces or other threatening capabilities, or to own or control strategically vital assets, in our Hemisphere.”

The real objective of US aggression against Venezuela is not the fictitious “war on narcotics,” nor any concern for democracy or human rights. What US imperialism seeks is control over Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and strategic resources, control over its political orientation, and control over the direction of LAC as a whole.

A key motivation behind US attempts to control Venezuela and reassert dominance over the LAC region is its sharpening inter-imperialist rivalry with China and the accompanying economic stagnation that has plagued the global imperialist system in the past decades. In this context, the US seeks to prevent China from establishing economic, political, or military footholds in the region, particularly as the former explores military cooperation and expands basing arrangements in other parts of the world. Venezuela’s continuing assertion of national sovereignty, its potential alignment with the US government’s primary imperialist rival, its refusal to submit to US economic and military domination therefore make it a prime target for destabilization and attack.

This aggression is part of a broader offensive across the region under the Trump administration, which has intensified coercion against Latin American and Caribbean countries that deviate from US imperialist interests. Sanctions imposed against Colombia’s president in October 2025, open meddling in the electoral processes of Honduras and Argentina, and renewed threats against Mexico all point to a coordinated effort to control the region.

This same imperialist policy is fully at work in the Philippines. In recent years, the US has deployed advanced missile platforms across the archipelago, including the Typhon mid-range missile system, which is capable of launching Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and SM-6 missiles. These deployments have been accompanied by repeated rotations of HIMARS rocket systems, which can deliver long-range precision strikes. The US has escalated the scale and aggressiveness of the Balikatan war exercises, transforming them into full-spectrum war simulations involving missile launches, amphibious assaults, and integrated command-and-control systems. These exercises and missile deployment programs are explicitly aligned with the US “first island chain” strategy and are designed to position the Philippines as a forward operating base in a potential war against China.

To fully realize this objective, US imperialism seeks to crush the national liberation movement in the Philippines, which stands as a major obstacle to the permanent militarization of the country. This is why the Trump administration continues to provide political backing, military aid, intelligence support, and supervision to the Marcos regime and the fascist Armed Forces of the Philippines as it wages a brutal counterrevolutionary war against the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army and the broad revolutionary mass movement. The suppression of the people’s democratic revolution in the Philippines and the attacks against Venezuela’s anti-imperialist government are meant to create a stable platform for further imperialist wars. Just as Venezuela is bombed and besieged to enforce US dominance in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Philippines is militarized and subjected to counterrevolutionary violence to secure US control in Asia Pacific.

Whether in Venezuela or in the Philippines, US imperialism seeks to maintain its hegemony by tightening its grip over the semicolonies, waging wars against nations assertive of their sovereignty, and crushing all efforts by peoples to chart an independent path free from US imperialism and its hegemonic program.

The Filipino revolutionary movement affirms its full solidarity with the Venezuelan people in their valiant resistance against US imperialism. The NDFP has a long history of friendly relations with the people of and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, forged through shared struggles against foreign intervention and local ruling classes subservient to the US. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Venezuelan masses in the common struggle for sovereignty and against US imperialism.

Stand with Venezuela against US imperialist aggression!
Down with US imperialism!

NDFP: Zelenskyy Visit is Part of US Design to Portray Marcos Jr. as New Poster Boy for War Versus China
#NDFP #philippines

https://abolitionmedia.noblogs.org/post/2024/06/04/ndfp-zelenskyy-visit-is-part-of-us-design-to-portray-marcos-jr-as-new-poster-boy-for-war-versus-china/

Global Actions Blast Marcos’ Sham Peace

On August 26, organizations and allies of the Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle (FFPS) staged a Global Day of Action to denounce the Marcos government’s intensifying repression. Coordinated actions in more than 10 countries, participated by over 30 organizations, called out the administration’s sham ‘peace’ agenda and rallied in solidarity with the Filipino people.

“How can Marcos claim to champion ‘peace’ when he is the number one sower of unpeace?” said Robert Reid, chairperson of FFPS. “While the Filipino people endure landlessness, low wages, rising prices and other systemic problems under Marcos’ presidency, the government relentlessly attacks anyone who dares dissent. We should call it for what it is: a war of suppression. Massacres, murders, military control and bombings of rural communities have become the policy of this government.”

As of June 2025, human rights watchdog Karapatan has documented 51,206 victims of bombing; 67,204 victims of indiscriminate firing; and 45,097 victims of forced evacuation, all in the course of the Marcos regime’s counterinsurgency war.

Reid denounced Marcos’ so-called peace programs and also criticized the role of the US and other international support to the Philippine government. “Foreign military aid and political support fuel Marcos’ war crimes. The only ‘peace’ they are buying is a peace of the grave. A just and lasting peace requires addressing the root causes underlying the armed civil conflict.”

Under Marcos, PH-US ties have deepened, with the US heavily embroiled in the counterinsurgency war. Examples include the $5.58 billion US arms sale in 2025 and direct involvement in spy-plane operations and ground patrols during Balikatan exercises.

From the capitals of Europe to cities across North America, and across the world from Hong Kong to New Zealand, activists echoed the call for a just and lasting peace. At mobilizations outside Philippine embassies and consulates solidarity activists voiced out their condemnation against the war of suppression, whilst other groups organized film screenings, teach-ins, postering and wheat-pasting, graffiti, and other creative actions to show their support to the Filipino people’s struggles for national and social liberation.

“The revolutionary movement represented by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) offers the most genuine path to change,” said Lidia Rodenburg, Coordinator of Maya Solidarity in the Netherlands. “Its program addresses the real problems driving the Filipino people to take up arms. A just and lasting peace can only come when the people’s desire for national liberation and social change is fulfilled.”

Activists also slammed Marcos’ State of the Nation Address claim that no guerrilla forces remain and vowed their continued support to the revolutionary fighters.

“If there were no more guerrillas, why are Marcos’ bombs raining down on communities and his battalions occupying villages?” asked Jonathan Bagot, Chairperson of FFPS-CST in Vancouver. “These claims are part of counterinsurgency tactics, and are directly and daily contradicted by the reality of continuous counter-revolutionary violence on the one hand and expanding revolutionary armed resistance by the Filipino masses on the other.”

Rei X of the Canada-Philippine Solidarity Organization in Toronto added, “We reject US-Marcos’ fake peace and call on people worldwide to support the Philippine revolution until victory. The national democratic revolution is the expression of the Filipino people’s will for genuine change, and the people’s war waged in the countryside is a legitimate means to achieve it.”

Coni Ledesma of the NDFP emphasized the ongoing struggle: “Today we continue to commemorate the Cry of Pugad Lawin, the cry for freedom and liberation, because we are still struggling and fighting for the full liberation of the Philippines. The revolutionaries that are building a new Philippines are building peace.”

“History has proven that no amount of fascist suppression will succeed in extinguishing the revolutionary fire of the Filipino people’s democratic revolution,” Reid concluded. “As internationalists, we have to also be irrepressible and intensify our support to contribute meaningfully to their struggle.”

About Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle (FFPS):
Friends of the Filipino People in Struggle (FFPS) / Friends of the National Democratic Front (FNDF) is a global organization that supports the Filipino people’s struggle for genuine national liberation as outlined in the 12 point program of the NDF. For more information, visit https://ffps.info.

Received by email.

https://abolitionmedia.noblogs.org/?p=21081

#asia #counterinsurgency #marcos #ndfp #philippines

Support the Filipino People in Demanding Justice for the Crimes of Duterte’s Police Chief Bato Dela Rosa, Long-Time US Counterinsurgency Operative: FFPS

Friends of the Filipino People in struggle join the Filipino people in welcoming the reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa due to his role in the killings of former President Rodrido Duterte’s so-called ‘War on Drugs’.

Dela Rosa was the head of the Philippine National Police during Duterte’s presidency and was the direct architect of many of the brutal policies which lead to what human rights groups estimate is over 30,000 deaths. On the first day of his appointment on July 1st 2016, he circulated a memo, officially launching the nationwide war on drugs, code named Project ‘Double Barrel’. This formalised and institutionalised mass killings with the state aim of the “neutralization of illegal drug personalities nationwide”. However, Dela Rosa also has a long track record of coordinating campaigns of mass killings and extrajudicial violence that predate Duterte’s presidency, dating back to the US-directed anti-communist counterinsurgency campaigns of the post-Martial Law period.

As a junior lieutenant in the Armed Forces of the Philippines stationed in Davao City in 1986, Dela Rosa was the handler of the armed anti-Communist paramilitary group and cult, the Holy Christian Crusaders, known as the ‘Tadtad’ (Filipino for ‘Chop Chop) for their practice of chopping the heads off of their victims. The Tadtads were known for brutal killings and grave human rights abuses on those they considered members of sympathisers of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Davao city. Rather than being ashamed of his role in these abuses, Dela Rosa still proudly boasts of his role directing the Tadtads. In 2020, shortly after the passing of the Anti-Terror Law by the US-Duterte regime directly targeting revolutionary and progressive forces in the country, Dela Rosa promoted his Anti-Communist credentials by posting an edited clip from the 1988 documentary film ‘A Rustling of the Leaves: Inside the Philippine Revolution’ (Dir. Nettie Wild). In this clip he shows his full awareness of a recent massacre committed by the Tadtads.

The Tadtads were just one group of many anti-communist paramilitary groups that the Philippine government used in their counter-insurgency campaign against the revolutionary forces, patterned after the US Counterinsurgency guide. These anti-communist paramilitary groups – the most well-known which being the Alsa Masa (Masses Rising) – also known as CAFGUs (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) were institutionalised as a key part of the Philippine Government’s counter-insurgency strategy under the post-Martial law Aquino government. Due to the widespread human rights abuses by these paramilitaries, the GRP began to dismantle them in 1993, only to halt this process in 1996 – with many of these groups still playing important roles in the Government’s counter-insurgency strategy.

Not only did Dela Rosa have a specific and devastating role in the apparatus of terror under the US-Duterte regime, but the death squads that he played a role in overseeing in-part inspired the Davao Death Squad (DDS) that Duterte used to pursue his so-called ‘War on Drugs’ during his time as Mayor of Davao City. This strategy was applied nationwide when he became president in 2016.

This strategy – which had its origins in the anti-communist counter insurgency – influenced a new wave of anti-communist repression after Duterte unilaterally terminated peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines in November 2017. Like the ‘War on Drugs’, a new ‘whole of nation’ approach was taken as part of a renewed and reinvigorated the counter-insurgency program increased. Programs like the National Task Force for Ended Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the Anti-Terror law of 2020 brought terror to activists and communities ‘Red-Tagged’ as communists or communist sympathisers.

The recent International People’s Tribunal (2024) on exposed serious humanitarian abuses under this program – which have continued to this day under the Marcos Jr regime. Evidence of grave human rights abuses such wilful killing of civilians, use of indiscriminate acts of war like bombings and strafings, abduction, forced disappearances, torture, and extra-judicial killings were examined by the tribunal – which declared both the Duterte and Marcos Jr Regime ‘GUILTY’ of war crimes and grave abuses of international humanitarian law.

Anti-communist counterinsurgency operations in the Philippines are patterned after the US Counterinsurgency Guide and have been both directly and indirectly backed by the US. These operations have persisted from the post-Martial Law period through the US-backed Duterte regime and Dela Rosa, and continue to this day under the US-aligned Marcos Jr. administration.

After Duterte’s arrest by the ICC, the Marcos Jr regime sought to distance itself from the human rights abuses of his predecessor by introducing the NAP-UPD. Essentially a renaming of the ‘Whole of Nation’ approach to counter-insurgency, NAP-UPD continues to tag revolutionaries, legal democratic activists, and civilians as terrorists; promote fake ‘localised’ peace talks’ and surrenders; and continues the massive ramping up of military deployment in poor – particularly rural – communities, placing them in a state of de-facto martial law.

The prosecution of Duterte, and the reported arrest warrant wouldn’t have happened without the struggles of the victims and families of victims of their brutal regimes. We must meet this struggle by growing and deepening our international solidarity with those struggling for national and social liberation in the Philippines – from legal civilian activists at risk of red-tagging and harassment, to those Red Fighters who make the ultimate sacrifice so that the Philippines may one day be free.

To learn more about the NAP-UPD, read FFPS’s primer here.

To learn more in how this is affecting rural communities, see our reportback from the recent International Solidarity Mission.

Source: FFPS

https://abolitionmedia.noblogs.org/?p=22779

#asia #guerrilla #maoist #ndfp #npa #philippines

Support the Filipino People in Demanding Justice for the Crimes of Duterte’s Police Chief Bato Dela Rosa, Long-Time US Counterinsurgency Operative: FFPS

Friends of the Filipino People in struggle join the Filipino people in welcoming the reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa due to his role in the killings of former President Rodrido Duterte’s so-called ‘War on Drugs’.

Dela Rosa was the head of the Philippine National Police during Duterte’s presidency and was the direct architect of many of the brutal policies which lead to what human rights groups estimate is over 30,000 deaths. On the first day of his appointment on July 1st 2016, he circulated a memo, officially launching the nationwide war on drugs, code named Project ‘Double Barrel’. This formalised and institutionalised mass killings with the state aim of the “neutralization of illegal drug personalities nationwide”. However, Dela Rosa also has a long track record of coordinating campaigns of mass killings and extrajudicial violence that predate Duterte’s presidency, dating back to the US-directed anti-communist counterinsurgency campaigns of the post-Martial Law period.

As a junior lieutenant in the Armed Forces of the Philippines stationed in Davao City in 1986, Dela Rosa was the handler of the armed anti-Communist paramilitary group and cult, the Holy Christian Crusaders, known as the ‘Tadtad’ (Filipino for ‘Chop Chop) for their practice of chopping the heads off of their victims. The Tadtads were known for brutal killings and grave human rights abuses on those they considered members of sympathisers of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Davao city. Rather than being ashamed of his role in these abuses, Dela Rosa still proudly boasts of his role directing the Tadtads. In 2020, shortly after the passing of the Anti-Terror Law by the US-Duterte regime directly targeting revolutionary and progressive forces in the country, Dela Rosa promoted his Anti-Communist credentials by posting an edited clip from the 1988 documentary film ‘A Rustling of the Leaves: Inside the Philippine Revolution’ (Dir. Nettie Wild). In this clip he shows his full awareness of a recent massacre committed by the Tadtads.

The Tadtads were just one group of many anti-communist paramilitary groups that the Philippine government used in their counter-insurgency campaign against the revolutionary forces, patterned after the US Counterinsurgency guide. These anti-communist paramilitary groups – the most well-known which being the Alsa Masa (Masses Rising) – also known as CAFGUs (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) were institutionalised as a key part of the Philippine Government’s counter-insurgency strategy under the post-Martial law Aquino government. Due to the widespread human rights abuses by these paramilitaries, the GRP began to dismantle them in 1993, only to halt this process in 1996 – with many of these groups still playing important roles in the Government’s counter-insurgency strategy.

Not only did Dela Rosa have a specific and devastating role in the apparatus of terror under the US-Duterte regime, but the death squads that he played a role in overseeing in-part inspired the Davao Death Squad (DDS) that Duterte used to pursue his so-called ‘War on Drugs’ during his time as Mayor of Davao City. This strategy was applied nationwide when he became president in 2016.

This strategy – which had its origins in the anti-communist counter insurgency – influenced a new wave of anti-communist repression after Duterte unilaterally terminated peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines in November 2017. Like the ‘War on Drugs’, a new ‘whole of nation’ approach was taken as part of a renewed and reinvigorated the counter-insurgency program increased. Programs like the National Task Force for Ended Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the Anti-Terror law of 2020 brought terror to activists and communities ‘Red-Tagged’ as communists or communist sympathisers.

The recent International People’s Tribunal (2024) on exposed serious humanitarian abuses under this program – which have continued to this day under the Marcos Jr regime. Evidence of grave human rights abuses such wilful killing of civilians, use of indiscriminate acts of war like bombings and strafings, abduction, forced disappearances, torture, and extra-judicial killings were examined by the tribunal – which declared both the Duterte and Marcos Jr Regime ‘GUILTY’ of war crimes and grave abuses of international humanitarian law.

Anti-communist counterinsurgency operations in the Philippines are patterned after the US Counterinsurgency Guide and have been both directly and indirectly backed by the US. These operations have persisted from the post-Martial Law period through the US-backed Duterte regime and Dela Rosa, and continue to this day under the US-aligned Marcos Jr. administration.

After Duterte’s arrest by the ICC, the Marcos Jr regime sought to distance itself from the human rights abuses of his predecessor by introducing the NAP-UPD. Essentially a renaming of the ‘Whole of Nation’ approach to counter-insurgency, NAP-UPD continues to tag revolutionaries, legal democratic activists, and civilians as terrorists; promote fake ‘localised’ peace talks’ and surrenders; and continues the massive ramping up of military deployment in poor – particularly rural – communities, placing them in a state of de-facto martial law.

The prosecution of Duterte, and the reported arrest warrant wouldn’t have happened without the struggles of the victims and families of victims of their brutal regimes. We must meet this struggle by growing and deepening our international solidarity with those struggling for national and social liberation in the Philippines – from legal civilian activists at risk of red-tagging and harassment, to those Red Fighters who make the ultimate sacrifice so that the Philippines may one day be free.

To learn more about the NAP-UPD, read FFPS’s primer here.

To learn more in how this is affecting rural communities, see our reportback from the recent International Solidarity Mission.

Source: FFPS

https://abolitionmedia.noblogs.org/?p=22779

#asia #guerrilla #maoist #ndfp #npa #philippines

#NDFP Int'l Office Broadcast of the #CPP's 57th Anniversary Statement - #Filipino version

#Philippines #Asia #SoutheastAsia #Socialism #Politics

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAeIbhYgkGM

#NDFP Int'l Office Broadcast of the #CPP's 57th Anniversary Statement - #Filipino version

#Philippines #Asia #SoutheastAsia #Socialism #Politics

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAeIbhYgkGM

NPA Units in Negros Suspend All Offensive Operations — Philippines

Starting 12:00 am today, all New People’s Army (NPA) units including its auxilliary militia and section guerilla forces in the five guerilla fronts of Negros halt all its offensive military operations against state security forces in strict compliance to the ceasefire order issued earlier by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). This suspension will take effect until 11:59 pm tomorrow and will resume its effectivity on December 31 to January 1 next year.

All units are instructed to assume active defense posture and refrain from conducting any action that will negate the purpose of CPP’s ceasefire order. However, they should maintain a high level of vigilance against all forms of treacherous attacks and provocative maneuvers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and its paramilitary forces and always ready to give battle to fend off any attacks or intrusion of their positions.

The Apolinario Gatmaitan Command (AGC-NPA) stands in solidarity with Negrosanons in their simple celebrations of the traditional Christmas and New Year holidays amid the backdrop of grave and worsening socio-economic crisis.

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