New EDCA sites in the Philippines, vital cog in US war plans vs China

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in a statement, condemned the Marcos regime for colluding with the United States in its plan to construct four more military bases in the country as part of its war preparations against China.

Read more: New EDCA sites in the Philippines, vital cog in US war plans vs China

ICC to resume investigation on Duterte's 'war on drugs'

On 21 March 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) allowed families of victims to comment on the appeal of the Philippine government against the ongoing investigation on former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. 

Read more: ICC to resume investigation on Duterte's 'war on drugs'

NPA troops launch further tactical offensives against state armed forces

On 15 March 2023, Red fighters of the New People's Army (NPA) launched two rifle grenades at the newly installed 62nd Infantry Battalion detachment in Barangay Malangsa, Callehermoso, Negros Oriental.

Read more: NPA troops launch further tactical offensives against state armed forces

Jobless Filipinos rise to 2.37M in January, belying Marcos admin’s claims of ‘economic recovery’

The number of jobless Filipinos increased last January to reach 2.37 million according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This is in contrast to recent pronouncements by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Artemio Balisacan that the country has a ‘healthy’ jobs market and that the quality of jobs is increasing. 

Read more: Jobless Filipinos rise to 2.37M in January, belying Marcos admin’s claims of ‘economic recovery’

Groups denounce series of aerial bombings by AFP

The recent spate of aerial bombing incidents by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Northern Mindanao and Northern Luzon were met with calls for impartial investigations on the intensifying human rights violations that have resulted in the displacement of indigenous communities.

Read more: Groups denounce series of aerial bombings by AFP

AFP mercenaries hit Governor Degamo, massacred eight others

The Manila government confirmed that mercenary soldiers killed Negros Oriental Governor Degamo and eight provincial staff and constituents and wounded 16 others, in an assault on the governor’s residence in Pamplona town on 5 March.

Read more: AFP mercenaries hit Governor Degamo, massacred eight others

International Women’s Day: Thousands march for higher wages, decent jobs in PH

On International Working Women's Day, 8 March 2023, thousands of women across different cities in the Philippines marched the streets to call for wage increase, decent jobs, and lower prices of goods among other issues affecting women, including land reform.

Read more: International Women’s Day: Thousands march for higher wages, decent jobs in PH