Former NPA groups celebrate anniversary in the open

From the Manila Times (Apr 9): Former NPA groups celebrate anniversary in the open

Ormoc City: Almost one thousand members of the eight organizations organized in the early ‘90s by the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army/National Democratic Front (CNN) in Leyte celebrates openly their 12th Anniversary under the folds of the law with the government troops, Non-Government Organizations and Civil Society Organizations last April 3, 2013 in Barangay Jubay, Calubian, Leyte province.

Colonel Rafael Valencia, Commander of the Army’s 802nd Brigade based in Camp Downes, Ormoc City said that the 802nd Brigade and 19th Infantry Battalion of 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army are closely working with these organizations to attain their dreams in a peaceful manner, without armed struggle.

“We are helping these organizations to be registered with DOLE. One of these Associations already got their certificate of registration, making them a duly government-recognized organization. Other government agencies, NGOs and CSOs have signified to help these organizations achieve their dreams. This is Bayanihan in action”, Colonel Valencia added.

“The registration of the organization will not only benefit the association, but will also be a significant advancement since they have already a personality in dealing with the government agencies, NGOs and or CSOs”, Colonel Valencia ended.

These farmers and fisher folks organizations are: Taglawigan Farmers Organization, Taglawigan Fisher Folks Organization, Catoogan Farmers Association from San Isidro, Leyte; Sorosimbahan Farmers Association, Jubay Farmers Association, Airport Farmers Association, Cabatoan Farmers Association from Calubian Leyte; and Libertad Farmers Association from Kananga, Leyte.

http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/regions/45114-former-npa-groups-celebrate-anniversary-in-the-open