By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade (IB) announced that its offensive operations against the remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay will continue throughout the holiday season.
Brigadier General Michael Samson, commander of the 301st IB, said they are maintaining pressure on the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon Panay to convince them that fighting the government is futile.
“We hope they realize that there is a better way—laying down their arms and returning to the folds of the law to reunite with their families, especially at this time of the year,” Samson said.
He explained that sustained military pressure is intended to fast-track the rebels’ realization that peace and reconciliation are better options.
“We are offering reconciliation and will welcome them back if they decide to surrender. They will have the opportunity to be with their families and reintegrate into society,” Samson added.
However, he emphasized that the military will continue its intensified operations against those who refuse to surrender.
No Holiday Truce Declared
National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. recently declared there will be no holiday ceasefire with the rebels.
“Any ceasefire with the CPP-NPA-NDF is a ceasefire with terrorists and criminals. It is a last-ditch effort by a Jurassic group to find relevance in the national political ecosystem,” Teodoro said.
Samson noted that a holiday truce would be irrelevant in Panay since government troops are dealing with only a handful of NPA remnants.
“They are fragmented. They don’t even have a leader anymore,” he said.
According to Samson, the remaining rebels in Panay number around 10, although it is difficult to provide an exact figure. Some have expressed surrender feelers, while others are reportedly absent without leave (AWOL).
Focused Operations in Capiz Hinterlands
The military is currently focusing its operations in the hinterlands of Tapaz, Capiz.
“We have identified the barangays where they are located. However, the difficult terrain and inclement weather make it challenging for our troops. Still, it’s just a matter of time before we locate them,” Samson said.
Despite the challenges, Samson assured that the NPA’s activities no longer disrupt the lives of people and communities in the area.
“They are merely evading our troops, hiding in the mountains or along provincial boundaries here in Panay,” he said.
Skirmishes or encounters, according to Samson, are government-initiated as troops actively pursue the rebels.
Samson expressed confidence that the military’s efforts will eventually bring an end to the NPA’s presence in Panay.
