Gov't troops on high alert vs rebels’ attacks

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 24): Gov't troops on high alert vs rebels’ attacks

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the region have been placed on high alert following reports that the New People’s Army (NPA) has intensified its insurgency operations against government forces.

Colonel Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, commander of the 502nd brigade based in Echague town, said the rebels have recruited and retrained new recruits even during the declarations of unilateral ceasefire between the government troops and the communist rebels.

Bacarro said the armed group has also intensified its re-organization activities and collection of its revolutionary taxes against businesses, projects, private companies and other vulnerable individuals.

Bacarro advised the members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to be alert, too, as the armed group may also attack their stations and seize their weapons.

He likewise warned the public that the rebels are wearing uniforms, combat boots and backpacks similar to that of the government soldiers.

“This is one of their tactics to deceive the public,” Bacarro added.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/461487303890/gov-t-troops-on-high-alert-vs-rebels-attacks