Hello. From now on, we will present m.CDM domestic news updates.
Today’s headlines include:
- Philippine President says Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s release remains ASEAN’s unchanged position
- NUCC honors the All Burma Federation of Student Unions fighting to eradicate the “three pillars” of military rule
- AA launches offensive on 4 outposts near Defense Industry Factory No. 16; over 20 junta troops killed; 6 drones shot down near Nat Yae Kan
- 9 civilians, including 3 children, killed due to junta attacks in Bago and Kachin, and other news
⸻ - Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s release is ASEAN’s unchanged position, says Philippine President
m.CDM, May 8
The release of unlawfully detained State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and allowing her to serve as a recognized leader remains ASEAN’s consistent and fundamental position, said rotating chair, Philippine President Marcos.
He made the remarks at a press conference following the ASEAN Summit held in the Philippines on May 8.
He said that her release is a key issue in negotiations with the Naypyidaw authorities, but there has been no progress regarding requests to meet her.
ASEAN member states remain divided into two camps on Myanmar. Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste support firmly upholding the Five-Point Consensus.
Meanwhile, neighboring countries Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia are pushing for re-engagement with the military junta.
Additionally, ASEAN foreign ministers agreed to hold an online meeting with the junta-appointed foreign minister, following Thailand’s proposal.
However, ASEAN has not recognized the junta’s planned “sham election” and continues to express serious concern over Myanmar’s political crisis, civil war, and humanitarian situation.
The summit also discussed rising energy prices and supply disruptions caused by conflicts in the Middle East.
⸻ - NUCC honors All Burma Federation of Student Unions
m.CDM, May 8
The National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) issued a message honoring the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), which is fighting to eradicate the “three military pillars.”
The message was sent on the occasion of the ABFSU’s 90th anniversary on May 8.
The ABFSU is described as one of the longest-standing organizations that has led struggles—from anti-colonial and anti-fascist movements to pro-democracy and anti-military dictatorship efforts.
NUCC praised its historic legacy and ongoing role in the Spring Revolution with firm commitment to dismantling military rule.
NUCC also pledged to continue efforts toward a federal democratic union, achieving common political agreements, and dismantling military institutions, in collaboration with diverse ethnic communities and the public.
ABFSU also stated its readiness to continue the fight to completely eradicate military dictatorship, regardless of the sacrifices required.
⸻ - AA offensive near Defense Industry Factory No. 16
m.CDM, May 8
The Arakan Army (AA) launched attacks on security outposts near Defense Industry Factory No. 16 in Pandaung Township, Bago Region, killing over 20 junta troops.
The offensive took place between May 4 and May 7, targeting four outposts and a defensive position.
Units under Military Operations Command No. 10 suffered casualties, and weapons were seized.
Junta reinforcements attempted counterattacks but were repelled with heavy losses.
Fighting continues, with AA targeting additional outposts.
The junta is reinforcing defenses and using air support including paramotors and Y-12 aircraft.
Clashes are also ongoing in Magway and Ayeyarwady regions.
Near Nat Yae Kan, AA reportedly destroyed an entire junta column and shot down six drones.
⸻ - Drone attacks on Launglon police station and military column
m.CDM, May 8
Resistance forces carried out drone bomb attacks on Launglon police station and a military column on May 7.
Two bombs were dropped on the police station, and four bombs targeted the military column.
Damage assessments are ongoing.
The operation was conducted jointly by LLSBF and SRF forces. No resistance fighters were injured.
Civilians were warned to avoid gatherings and travel cautiously due to ongoing military operations.
⸻ - Fighting in Hpakant; civilian deaths in Mawlu
m.CDM, May 8
Clashes in Hpakant Township resulted in 4 junta soldiers killed and weapons seized.
Following airstrikes, ground fighting broke out between junta forces and KIA-led allied troops.
Junta forces continue airstrikes, burning homes and causing widespread destruction.
About 15 junta soldiers have reportedly been captured.
In Mawlu, indiscriminate shelling killed 5 civilians, including villagers from multiple locations.
The military has taken control of Mawlu, forcing mass displacement of residents.
⸻ - Airstrike damages homes and monastery in Karen area
m.CDM, May 8
A drone strike by junta forces injured an elderly woman and damaged homes and a monastery in Laydo Township, Kawthoolei area.
Repeated air and artillery attacks have caused civilian casualties and destruction throughout early May.
⸻ - Airstrike in Mindat damages government buildings
m.CDM, May 8
A junta jet dropped bombs on Mindat town, damaging immigration and fire department offices.
Casualties are not yet confirmed.
⸻ - 9 civilians, including children, killed in Bago and Kachin
m.CDM, May 8
Airstrikes and shelling killed 9 civilians, including 3 children.
In Bago, repeated airstrikes killed 6 civilians and injured several others.
A 15-year-old boy was also shot dead while fleeing.
In Kachin, drone attacks injured civilians and destroyed homes.
⸻ - Airstrike on jade mining site in Hpakant
m.CDM, May 8
The military bombed a jade mining site despite no active fighting.
Damage details remain unclear, though machinery was reportedly destroyed.
⸻ - Temporary shutdown of Starlink devices ordered in Kani
m.CDM, May 8
Authorities ordered temporary shutdown of Starlink devices for security reasons.
The move aims to prevent intelligence leaks to junta forces during intensified operations.
Over 20,000 civilians have been displaced in the area.
⸻ - Prison escape in Gangaw
m.CDM, May 8
Three prisoners, including two POWs, escaped from an NUG-controlled prison.
They broke out while guards were asleep.
Search operations are ongoing.
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These reports were provided by Ko Thit and Lu Lay.