N. Ecija residents seek return of army to stop rebel activities

From the Manila Standard Today (Jan 14): N. Ecija residents seek return of army to stop rebel activities

BONGABON, Nueva Ecija —Residents have asked local officials to seek the posting of an army brigade here because of widespread fear of resurgence of activities by the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

Mayor Allan Gamilla said he has been negotiating with army officials to relocate the 702nd Infantry Brigade from Binmaley, Pangasinan back to Barangay Calaanan in this town where it was based for 25 years.

“Talks are going on. At our end, we are negotiating with the owner of the land where the former brigade headquarters used to stand to have him donate a parcel of his land for this purpose,” he said.

The brigade pulled out of the area in 2012 when the owner of the land wanted to sell the property. It was replaced by a smaller 56th Infantry Battalion stationed in Baler, Aurora.

The area was once a known NPA stronghold covering the boundaries of Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija and Aurora was cleared of insurgents by the 702nd IB.  NPA activities has increased since its pull out.

Gamilla said the return of the 702nd IB was a growing clamor not only in Bongabon, but also by residents in nearby areas because of a spate of attacks by the rebels.

The brigade was not only active in counter-insurgency work but also took part in forest protection and community service.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/01/14/n-ecija-residents-seek-return-of-army-to-stop-rebel-activities/