Army commander calls on rebels to unite with armed forces in fight vs. climate change

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 28): Army commander calls on rebels to unite with armed forces in fight vs. climate change

Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) Commander Brigadier General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. called on the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army (CPP-NDF-NPA) to join the Armed Forces of the Philippines in its fight against climate change. “We are now fighting a new war that is climate change. Hence, I challenge the CPP-NDF-NPA to declare a bilateral ceasefire in disaster-prone areas and help in the construction of school buildings that can be converted into evacuation centers during calamities,” said Catapang.

“The wrath of typhoon Pablo in Davao Region, where a number of 7ID troops were assigned, resulted to over a thousand deaths and billions of pesos worth in agricultural and infrastructure damages. It is high time for us to consider the threat brought about by these natural calamities,” Catapang said. In line with relief efforts to “Pablo” victims, the 7ID cancelled most of its Christmas festivities and donated the money instead. Also, each soldier gave at least one canned good and proceeds from the Commander’s Cup, Battle of the Bands, and fun run went to such cause.

A collection booth was likewise placed in a mall in Cabanatuan City to give Novo Ecijanos and other Central Luzon residents an opportunity to help. The donations and relief goods were delivered to 7ID’s brigade in Davao Oriental for distribution to affected families. (CLJD with reports from 7ID)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=561356614213