News
11 civilians killed in bombing
At least 11 Moro civilians were killed and an undetermined number wounded when the AFP indiscriminately bombed suspected lairs of the bandit Pentagon Gang on August 13 in the Liguasan Marsh.
Two OV-10 airplanes and four M520 helicopter gunships attacked Barangay Midpandakan, Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao and Barangay Pambalayan, Lambayang, Sultan Kudarat.
The civilians were killed when bombs hit a mosque and five houses in Barangay Midpandakan. The victims included six children. Over 200 families evacuated as a result of this military operation. Many houses were likewise damaged by the bombing.
People's caravan vs. Balikatan launched
Progressive and democratic groups in Mindanao launched a two-day People's Caravan for Peace and Sovereignty to show widespread opposition and condemnation for worsening US imperialist intervention in the Philippines, and in Mindanao in particular.
Over 10,000 people and 120 vehicles joined the caravan which began in Davao City and ended in the town of Carmen, North Cotabato on August 13.
The protesters assailed the US for its deceptive policy of permanently occupying the country in the guise of temporary arrangements. Without admitting it, the US has actually been using the whole of Mindanao as a virtual military base.
Hugo Ch�vez wins recall referendum in Venezuela
Venezuelan president Hugo Ch�vez's victory in a recent recall referendum belied claims by his opponents that a large majority of Venezuelans want him out of power.
Ch�vez's presidency was subjected to a referendum on August 15 where 59% of voters expressed their desire to have him stay on as president.
International observers monitoring the referendum said the results were legitimate and that they saw no evidence of fraud.
Ch�vez is well-known for his anti-US stance, especially in his opposition to US attempts to control Venezuela's oil industry.
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