Silay villagers denounce CPP-NPA terrorists
By Lorenzo Lambatin, Jr. / Philippine Information Agency
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – More than 200 Silay City residents recently gathered at Brgy. Eustaquio Lopez Covered Court to condemn the atrocities and deceptions of the Communist-New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) and its allies.
The activity commenced with an information drive aimed to give awareness to the residents regarding insurgency, deception and recruitment strategies of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to address the issues and concerns of the residents, said 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer 1Lt. Dansan Camua.
Former rebel "Ka Joross" shared his testimony about his miserable experiences when he was still in the armed group and how his life changed after he surrendered.
Participants to the activity were mostly members of Hacienda Culahao C Farmer Workers Association (HACUFWA) and Hacienda Nenita Farmer Workers Association (HANFAWA), who took their oath of allegiance that was officiated by Brgy. Eustaquio Lopez Punong Barangay Meriam Gallego.
This was followed by the burning of the CPP-NPA flag to show their withdrawal of support to the terrorist organization as they hoisted banners and placards calling for an end to the "terrorist" activities,
extortion, harassments and deception to civilians, as well as recruitment of minors.
Leaflets were also distributed about the benefits of Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Progran (E-CLIP) to encourage members of the CNTs to return to the folds of the law.
Arnilo Serquillos, Chairman of Hacienda Culahao C Farmer Workers Association thanked the Community Support Program (CSP) team of the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police for the assistance to their organization.
Commanding Officer of 79IB Lieutenant Colonel J-jay T Javines lauded the efforts of the community in condemning the CNTs.
"This clearly shows that the peace-loving residents of E.Lopez can no longer endure the suffering they’ve been experiencing. The pledge to withdraw their support from the armed group is already a bold step towards ending insurgency.” (AAL/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental/Story and photos from 79IB, PA)