Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Rebels a real bane to development -- EMC

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 30): Rebels a real bane to development -- EMC

Proving that they are violent threat to economic growth and development, rebel forces operating in the Eastern Mindanao has caused PhP246.12 million worth of damages to business firms and other industries operating in the area.

Capt. Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) public affairs office chief, said damages caused by New People's Army (NPA) atrocities can be broken down into: PhP34.71 million for the first quarter of 2015; PhP34.58 million for the second quarter; PhP92.72 million for the third; and PhP84.11 million for the fourth.

EMC head Major Gen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero said these atrocities have not only hampered development and the delivery of essential services, but have also brought untold sufferings and hardships to the workers whose jobs were affected.

“If the CPP/NPA/NDF is sincere about peace and promoting the people’s interest, then they should immediately desist from attacking development projects and legitimate business, which serve the interest and provide gainful employment to our people,” he noted.

The Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) prohibits attacks against civilians, and non-military targets.

In light of these atrocities, Guerrero has directed all units under his command to institute measures that would enhance the security of vital industries, projects and businesses in its area of operations.

The troops were also directed to coordinate with the local police; local government officials; and the security officers of the said entities to harden the security of their respective establishments and prevent any untoward incidents from happening in their communities.

In the meantime, the EMC has reiterated its call for businessmen to report extortion activities by the rebels.

Guerrero said they are anticipating a rise in extortion activities especially with the numerous development projects being implemented in the region and with the approaching election campaign season.

Also, the rebels intensified its extortion activities because it has lost its logistical base in the countryside.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=842259

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