Army scores rebel ‘extortion’ as contractor halts road project

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

Same old New People’s Army (NPA)?

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division slammed the alleged extortion activities of the NPA in some parts of Panay Island, particularly in the southern portion of Iloilo.

Major Cenon Pancito, 3rd ID spokesperson, said they have monitored massive extortion activities perpetrated by the NPAs against businessmen and construction companies in Iloilo.

“That’s why, we have made our forces available on the ground para sundan ang mga rebeldeng grupong ito,” he said.

Pancito said they found and established that the NPA sent extortion letter to Galino Construction, the contractor of the farm-to-market road in Barangay Buyu-an, Tigbauan, Iloilo.

Pancito said they had to verify because the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) is also operating in the area.

The government has struck a peace accord with RPA-ABB, which is a splinter group of the NPA and the Communist Party of the Philippines.

The Army also investigated how the letter was sent and checked its format to confirm if it indeed came from the NPA.

The local police have confirmed that Galino Construction has temporarily suspended its works in the area.

“That’s why, we are asking for help of other organizations and individuals who were also harassed and extorted to come out and report to the police or military units and work with us. Be part of the solution in ending insurgency,” he said.

Pancito assured that the government is more than willing to extend assistance to individuals and companies who are getting threats from rebels.