Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 7): Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary

The Philippine Army in Negros Oriental is relentlessly conducting combat operations especially in far-flung sitios and barangays of the province against possible attacks by rebels during the 45th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines this month.

Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said yesterday that it is a standing procedure for the military to strengthen its operations during the CPP anniversary on December 26 since its armed wing, the New People’s Army, could launch tactical offensives.

He said soldiers are directed to intensify the clearing of insurgency-affected areas and strengthen the defense of detachments, while civilians who are possible targets of NPA liquidation are reminded to take extra precautionary measures.

The “targets” should be extra careful and avoid areas that make them vulnerable to attacks by the NPA, Patrimonio said.

Meanwhile, the 79th Infantry Battalion, with the Sta. Catalina government, conducted a closing program for its Bayanihan Team activities in Sitio Hingles, Barangay San Francisco of the town recently.

It was highlighted by the oath-taking of 13 members of the Grupong Pang-organisa of the NPA from the barangay, before Mayor Nathaniel Electona.

Group leaders Ceferino Namuco and Gilmore Fabian called on other residents to break free of the influence of the NPA, and support the government in its quest for development and lasting peace, Lt. Wynmer Calulot of the 79th IB said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/December/07/negor2.htm