273 barangays still terrorized by NPA: army
THE EASTERN Mindanao Command this year will attempt to free the 273 remaining barangays under its jurisdiction still under the influence of the New People’s Army (NPA).
“From the 400 affected barangays (initially), there are only 273 remain affected while the rest are already under validation and for declaration as cleared barangays,” Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerero, EastMinCom head, said during the press conference yesterday.
In the first quarter of 2015, the contingent recorded 496 barangays with NPA presence although the figure was a slight dip from the 514 in the fourth quarter of 2014.
The military attributed its success to the continuing outreach activities and delivery of basic services, apart from the combat operations, as part of its peace and development program.
He estimated that there are around 1,600 guerillas under the jurisdiction of the EastMinCom, which covers Davao Region, Caraga and Northern Mindanao.
According to their report, the NPA has around 2,232 short and high-powered firearms in its inventory.
In 2015, the EastMinCom recorded 330 NPA surrenderees.
“For every NPA that surrenders or neutralized we deduct one from a total strength and for every firearm we secure, we also deduct one,” he explained. “That’s the reason why there are more guns than manpower.”
He said their military offensives on NPA-influenced areas continue parallel to the joint efforts of the military and local government units to introduce development to the poor communities.
Don’t give in to NPA extortion
Meanwhile, Guerero said that they already reached out to some politicians to persuade them from giving in to the extortion activities of the NPA, particularly on the “permit to campaign” fees.
“We are also appealing to them to closely coordinate with the police and military before embarking on a campaign so we can clear the area,” he added.
On the other hand, regional police director, Chief Supt. Wendy G. Rosario, said they are coordinating with the military for security operations during the conduct of the 2016 elections.
“Right now, our units are coordinating and working on a schedule especially now that the campaign period is starting,” he said. “We are also looking into reported extortion demands so that we will be able to institute measures to reinforce their security.”
According to their assessment, the security of some barangays of Surigaod el Sur, Agusan del Sur, Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental and Bukidnon remained critical this coming elections due to the NPA presence and political rivalries.
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