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2 NPA patay sa engkwentro sa Quezon

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LUCENA CITY, Quezon. Dalawang miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) ang namatay matapos ang maigting na engkwentro laban sa militar sa Brgy. San Jose, Guinayangan, Quezon.

Batay sa inisyal na ulat ng Philippine Army (PA), naganap ang labanan sa pagitan ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 85th Infantry Battalion at ang komunistang grupo ng Platun Reymark, SRMA-4B, STRPC sa nabanggit na baryo sa Quezon, bandang 6:20 ng umaga nitong Huwebes Santo, Marso 28.

Sa lugar ng engkwentro, nakuha ng militar ang tatlong high powered firearms na iniuugnay sa mga NPA.

Samantala, ibinigay ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Guinayangan at ng pamunuan ng 85th IB, Philippine Army ang maayos na burol para sa dalawang nasawing miyembro ng NPA.

Kinilala ng militar ang mga namatay na rebelde na sina Divine Soreta, kilala rin bilang Joy at Gerbin, taga-Capalonga, Camarines Norte, na itinuturing na mataas na lider ng NPA sa Bicol Region, at isang Paulo Cruz alyas “Isko” at “Ramon”. Ang kanilang mga labi ay nakalagak sa St. Peter ng Brgy. Poblacion 2, Guinayangan, Quezon, at patuloy na binabantayan ng mga sundalo upang matiyak na ang kanilang mga pamilya ang tatanggap ng tamang paglilibing.

Sa kabila nito, nananawagan ang AFP, PNP, at pamahalaang panglalawigan sa mga natitirang miyembro ng Platun Reymark, SRMA 4B, na sumuko na. Sinabi ng mga sundalo na ang gobyerno ay handang magbigay ng tulong sa mga rebelde na bumalik sa mapayapang pamayanan. Sa pamamagitan ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o E-CLIP, tutulungan anila ng pamahalaan ang mga taong naliligaw ng landas na muling mabuhay ng tahimik at produktibo sa lipunan.

Samantala, patuloy ang pagiging alerto ng militar dahil posibleng may natitira pang armadong terorista sa lugar na maaaring magdulot ng karahasan sa kapayapaan ng Guinayangan at sa buong lalawigan ng Quezon.

Bukod dito, magpapatuloy ang pagpapatupad ng mga checkpoint at monitoring ng mga ospital at klinika, kasama ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga barangay at mga opisyal ng munisipyo upang masiguro ang kaligtasan ng mga residenteng naapektuhan ng engkuwentro.

Dutch nightclub hostage drama ends with peaceful suspect’s arrest

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EDE, Netherlands. Dutch authorities apprehended a man on Saturday after he exited a nightclub where four individuals had been held hostage for several hours, thereby concluding a tense standoff without violence.

The individual, clad in a balaclava mask, surrendered to law enforcement authorities after exiting the building.

A statement from the police confirmed the resolution of the ordeal, stating, “The last hostage has just been released. One person has been arrested.” However, details regarding the incident remained limited at the time of the announcement.

The incident unfolded early Saturday morning at Cafe Petticoat, where several individuals, including staff members, were taken captive. Authorities indicated uncertainty about the motive behind the act.

During a subsequent news briefing, officials revealed that the suspect, already known to law enforcement, had reportedly brandished knives while threatening the hostages. Despite concerns, authorities stated that there was no evidence suggesting a terrorist motive.

Eyewitnesses recounted the tense moments as the suspect voluntarily left the club, surrendering himself to authorities. A Reuters video journalist on-site reported that the individual emerged, raised his hands behind his head, and knelt down before being apprehended by police.

Given the potential threat, police took precautionary measures, deploying explosives units to the scene and evacuating nearby streets. Additionally, train services to the town, situated approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Amsterdam, were temporarily suspended.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to provide further updates regarding the incident and the apprehended suspect.

Second aid shipment with nearly 400 tons of food departs from Cyprus to Gaza

JERUSALEM. A second aid convoy, laden with nearly 400 tons of food destined for Gaza, departed from the port of Larnaca in Cyprus on Saturday, as confirmed by a witness from Reuters. This shipment, organized by the U.S.-based charity World Central Kitchen (WCK) in collaboration with Spain’s Open Arms charity, received funding primarily from the UAE and logistical support from Cypriot authorities.

The cargo, transported by a combination of a cargo ship and a platform towed by a salvage vessel, marks the continuation of relief efforts initiated earlier in March. Cyprus, in partnership with Israel, has established a maritime corridor to facilitate the direct transportation of pre-screened aid to the besieged Palestinian enclave.

During its previous mission, the WCK constructed a makeshift jetty using rubble to facilitate the offloading of approximately 200 tons of food in Gaza, where formal port facilities are lacking. In addition to the food supplies, the current dispatch includes two forklifts and a crane to assist with future marine deliveries.

In a separate initiative, the United States announced plans to construct a floating pier off the coast of Gaza to enhance aid reception. According to Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, the target completion date for this project is May 1, although it could potentially be operational by mid-April.

The urgency of these efforts stems from the United Nations’ warning of an imminent famine in the northern Gaza Strip, where approximately 300,000 individuals are confined amidst ongoing conflict. Across the entirety of Gaza, comprising a population of 2.3 million, more than half could face famine conditions by July if relief efforts are not intensified.

A 63-year old man endures 35th crucifixion for global peace prayers on Good Friday

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga. Ruben Enaje, has undergone the crucifixion ritual for the 35th time on Good Friday, using the solemn occasion to pray fervently for peace in conflict-stricken regions worldwide.

The event, held in the rural communities of Pampanga province, north of Manila, drew over a hundred spectators who watched as Enaje and nine other devotees were nailed to wooden crosses. Enaje, a 63-year-old carpenter and sign painter, has become a revered figure in the annual spectacle, symbolizing Christ’s suffering in the reenactment of the Way of the Cross.

Speaking ahead of the crucifixions, Enaje expressed his determination to continue the tradition despite his advancing age, citing requests from villagers to pray for various afflictions, including the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Gaza, and the South China Sea. He emphasized the ripple effects of these conflicts on global economies and the hardships faced by vulnerable populations.

Enaje’s personal journey with the crucifixion ritual dates back to the 1980s when he survived a fall from a three-story building, which he viewed as a miraculous escape. Since then, he has extended his penitential act as expressions of gratitude for his family’s recoveries from illnesses and as a means to secure job opportunities.

The annual crucifixion event in a rice field in San Pedro Cutud sees Enaje and fellow devotees endure physical hardship, carrying heavy crosses under the scorching sun before being nailed to them for five to ten minutes. The forms of penitence have changed throughout the years. In addition to the crucifixion, others go through alternative forms of sacrifice that include self-flagellation (magsalibatbat or magdarame), carrying a wooden cross as well as crawling on the public streets (kukusad).

Despite criticism from church leaders, who advocate for alternative forms of religious expression, the tradition persists, reflecting the unique blend of Catholicism and folk beliefs in the Philippines.

The Passion Play and Crucifixion begins at 3 pm and signals the culmination of the re-enactment. Individuals are nailed to wooden crosses on a makeshift Calvary using alcohol-soaked, two-inch nails.

Among the spectators this year was Maciej Kruszewski, a tourist from Poland, who sought to understand the significance of Easter in a different cultural context. The ceremony also includes other acts of penance, such as barefoot processions and self-flagellation, underscoring the profound spiritual significance attached to the event for many participants.

As Enaje contemplates the possibility of this being his final crucifixion due to his declining health, his enduring commitment to prayer and peace serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith and compassion in troubled times.

Crypto tycoon Sam Bankman-Fried receives 25-year prison sentence for massive fraud

NEW YORK. Sam Bankman-Fried, once revered as a crypto mogul, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for orchestrating a colossal fraud that rocked the cryptocurrency world. The sentencing, delivered by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, marks a significant downfall for Bankman-Fried, who was at the helm of FTX, a leading digital currency exchange platform.

Bankman-Fried, a 32-year-old entrepreneur from California, saw his empire crumble in November 2022, leaving behind a trail of financial devastation totaling over $11 billion. Despite being described as “extremely smart” by Judge Kaplan, Bankman-Fried’s actions led to his conviction on charges of fraud and conspiracy.

During the trial, Judge Kaplan delivered a scathing assessment of Bankman-Fried’s crimes, highlighting his repeated perjury and evasion of questions. Despite pleas for leniency, the judge deemed a substantial sentence necessary to prevent further harm, citing the risk of Bankman-Fried committing similar offenses in the future.

Bankman-Fried, clad in a khaki-colored prison uniform and shackled, expressed remorse for his actions but also sought to deflect blame onto others during his statement in court. However, Judge Kaplan criticized his lack of genuine remorse, noting the absence of any acknowledgment of the severity of his crimes.

Defense attorney Marc Mukasey portrayed Bankman-Fried as a mathematical thinker rather than a malicious fraudster, but the judge countered, emphasizing Bankman-Fried’s calculated risk-taking and exploitation of expected value.

The sentencing drew emotional testimony from victims, including Sunil Kavuri, who represented over 200 individuals affected by Bankman-Fried’s deception. Despite claims of recovery by Bankman-Fried’s supporters, FTX and its creditors disputed the notion, highlighting the ongoing financial turmoil caused by his actions.

As Bankman-Fried’s parents, both Stanford Law School professors, left the courthouse without speaking, they issued a statement expressing their heartbreak and determination to continue supporting their son.

Bankman-Fried’s journey from a billionaire crypto tycoon to a convicted fraudster serves as a cautionary tale amid the rapid rise of digital currencies. The collapse of FTX underscores the inherent risks associated with unregulated markets and unchecked ambition, leaving a lasting impact on investors and the cryptocurrency community at large.

Tajikistan detains 9 in connection to Moscow concert hall attack

MOSCOW. On a suburban Moscow concert hall that claimed 144 lives, Tajikistan’s state security service has detained nine individuals suspected of having contact with the perpetrators, as reported by Russian state news agency RIA Novosti on Friday.

According to RIA Novosti, the detainees, residents of the Vakhdat district, are believed to have had connections with the assailants responsible for the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall on March 22. The report, citing information from an unnamed source in Tajikistan’s special services, also mentioned the involvement of Russian security forces in the operation to apprehend the suspects.

Additionally, those detained are suspected of having ties to the Islamic State group, adding another layer to the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Investigative Committee announced on Thursday the detention of another suspect linked to the attack, focusing on suspicions of financing the assault. However, details regarding the identity and alleged actions of the newly detained individual were not disclosed.

Previously, Russian officials had announced the arrest of 11 suspects, including four individuals allegedly directly involved in carrying out the attack. The suspects, identified as Tajik nationals, appeared in a Moscow court facing terrorism charges, with visible signs of severe beatings raising concerns about their treatment in custody.

While a faction of the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the massacre, Russian authorities, led by President Vladimir Putin, have continuously suggested, without substantiating evidence, the involvement of Ukraine and the West in the attack.

In a statement, the Investigative Committee asserted having evidence indicating that the attackers received significant financial support, including cryptocurrency, from Ukraine, purportedly utilized in planning the crime. However, Ukrainian authorities vehemently deny any involvement, accusing Moscow of using the allegation as a pretext to escalate tensions.

As the death toll from the tragedy continues to climb, reaching 144 on Friday with the passing of a severely injured victim in the hospital, according to Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, the repercussions of the attack reverberate both domestically and internationally, underscoring the complexities surrounding the investigation and its geopolitical implications.

Maundy Thursday in a global context and lessons for today’s world

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As the world observes Maundy Thursday, a solemn day in the Christian calendar marking the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, the significance of this occasion reverberates amidst the backdrop of current global challenges.

Traditionally, Maundy Thursday commemorates the humility and selflessness exemplified by Jesus as he washed the feet of his disciples, teaching them the value of service and compassion. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal of faith for Christians worldwide.

However, the resonance of Maundy Thursday extends beyond religious boundaries, offering poignant lessons and parallels to the contemporary state of the world.

In a time marked by social, economic, and environmental crises, the spirit of humility and service embodied in Maundy Thursday holds profound relevance. As communities grapple with the far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ethos of solidarity and support exemplified by Jesus’s act of washing feet serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of collective responsibility and care for one another.

Moreover, amidst geopolitical tensions, economic disparities, and humanitarian crises, the principles of forgiveness and reconciliation central to Maundy Thursday offer a beacon of hope for resolving conflicts and fostering understanding across divides. In a world often fraught with division and discord, the message of unity and love espoused by Jesus on this day resonates as a powerful antidote to hatred and animosity.

Furthermore, the environmental challenges confronting humanity underscore the imperative of stewardship and reverence for creation—a theme echoed in the biblical narrative of Jesus’s last supper. As the world grapples with climate change, deforestation, and ecological degradation, the call to cherish and protect the Earth resonates with renewed urgency, reminding us of our responsibility to safeguard the planet for future generations.

Amidst the complexities and uncertainties of the modern world, Maundy Thursday serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, inviting individuals of all faiths to reflect on timeless values of compassion, humility, and service. In a time marred by division and adversity, the message of love and solidarity embodied in this sacred day offers a pathway towards healing, reconciliation, and renewal.

As we commemorate Maundy Thursday, may we heed its timeless teachings and strive to emulate the spirit of compassion and kindness exemplified by Jesus, fostering a world guided by empathy, justice, and peace. In doing so, we honor the essence of this sacred day and sow the seeds of hope for a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

Lego mugshot controversy hits police department in California

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LOS ANGELES. The Murrieta Police Department in Southern California finds itself in a tussle with Lego after employing the iconic toy’s heads to obscure suspects’ faces in social media posts.

“Why the covered faces?” queried the department in a March 18 Instagram post, showcasing a lineup of individuals with their faces concealed by Lego heads sporting different expressions. The post, which referenced California’s recent law restricting the sharing of mugshots on social media, sparked widespread attention.

“The Murrieta Police Department prides itself in its transparency with the community, but also honors everyone’s rights & protections as afforded by law; even suspects,” the department asserted.

While law enforcement agencies across the U.S. have traditionally shared mugshots on platforms like “Mugshot Mondays” and “Wanted Wednesdays,” experts highlight the detrimental impact of such practices. Mugshots, they argue, can unfairly stigmatize individuals and hinder their reintegration into society post-conviction.

Under California’s new law, agencies must remove shared booking photos within 14 days, except under specific circumstances. Murrieta police had adapted to this by using Lego heads and emojis, aiming to comply with the law while maintaining community engagement.

However, on March 19, Lego intervened, requesting the department to refrain from using its intellectual property in social media content.

Assemblymember Corey Jackson, the primary sponsor of the California law, acknowledged the privacy protection offered by Lego heads but questioned residents’ perception. He raised concerns about law enforcement agencies seeking loopholes, such as posting images of suspects in police cruisers, to circumvent the law’s intent.

Amidst the controversy, the department is exploring alternative methods for social media content. Jackson emphasized the need for law enforcement to uphold trust and integrity, urging compliance with the law rather than seeking loopholes.

Foreign correspondents in the Philippines slam China’s allegations of video manipulation

MANILA. Foreign correspondents stationed in Manila stood united on Wednesday, vehemently rejecting China’s claims that journalists in the Philippines manipulated videos to portray the country as a “victim” during resupply missions in the South China Sea.

The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) issued a strong rebuke, asserting, “takes deep offence at the insinuation that the press is a ‘troublemaker’ and in cahoots with the government to forward a political agenda.”

The dispute arose following a statement by China’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hua Chunying, posted on a platform X on March 26. Hua alleged that videos recorded during routine missions to deliver supplies to troops stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal were manipulated by journalists onboard to create sensational news.

In response, FOCAP condemned the “false, baseless claims” made by Hua and the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which echoed the accusations on the same platform.

Despite reaching out for comment, neither the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines nor China’s foreign ministry in Beijing immediately responded to Reuters.

Highlighting the role of journalists in covering the disputed waters, FOCAP emphasized that the comments were an affront to journalistic integrity, stating, “a free and independent press reports not what they are told, but what they observe.”

In a further rebuttal, a spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, responsible for escorting civilian boats during resupply missions, asserted on platform X, “China seems to have overlooked the fact that in a democratic country like the Philippines, we highly value freedom of speech and freedom of the press.”

UP student na miyembro ng NPA, 2 pa patay sa engkuwentro

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ROSARIO, Batangas. Patay sa engkwentro ang isang UP student na kasapi ng New People’s Army (NPA) at dalawang iba pa sa bayang ito kamakalawa.

Ayon kay Captain Michael Malacad ng Army’s 2nd Infantry Division (ID), habang isinasagawa ngmga miyembro ng 59th Infantry “Protector” Battalion (IB) ng Philippine Army ang Focused Military Operations (FMO) at security assistance sa Brgy. Leviste, Rosario, nasalubong nila ang humigit kumulang sa 10 miyembro ng CPP-NPA-NDF bandang-8:15 ng umaga nitong Martes Santo, na nauwi sa sagupaan.

Ayon sa report ni Brig. Gen. Erwin Alea ng 201st Infantry Brigade, ang mga rebelde ay kasapi ng Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA)-4C na pinamumunuan ni Junalice Arante-Isita alyas “Ka Arya”, kalihim ng grupo ng Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC).

Sa engkuwentro, nasawi si Isita at dalawa pa na kinilalang sina Bernardo Bagaas alyas “Ka John Paul”, logistics officer ng grupo at Erickson Bedonia alyas “Ka Ricky”, miyembro ng SMRA-4C. Narekober mula sa engkuwentro ang isang M16 rifle, isang baby armalite, isang M4 Bushmaster rifle, anim na jungle packs, at wire sa paggawa ng Improvised Explosive Devices.

Bukod dito, si Isita ay political instructor ng STRPC’s Main Regional Guerilla Unit at pinuno ng Kilusang Larangan Guerilla (KLG) Silangan. May warrant of arrest siya sa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 7 sa Batangas City kaugnay ng paglabag sa Republic Act (RA) 11479 o ang Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

Si Isita ay asawa ni Isagani Isita alyas “Yano”, lider ng STRPC’s Sinag 2 na napatay ng mga sundalo noong Hulyo 30, 2023 matapos manlaban habang isinisilbi ang warrant of arrest laban sa kanya sa Sariaya, Quezon.

Ang napatay na babaeng lider ng NPA na si Ka Arya ay taga-Brgy. Banaba, Padre Garcia, Batangas, nagtapos sa Lipa City National Science High School at kumuha ng kursong Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science sa University of the Philippines (UP) Manila.