DND chief says brigade level probe on military failure against NPA

From the Daily Tribune (Feb 23): DND chief says brigade level probe on military failure against NPA

Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin yesterday announced that a brigade-level investigation will be conducted to establish why the military failed to thwart the wide-scale atrocities launched by the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Bukidnon Tuesday night.

“Right now, I asked the military to explain why these happened,” said Gazmin, referring to the simultaneous raids against the facilities of Del Monte Philippines and Dole Philippines in the towns of Manolo Fortich and Impasugong, respectively.
“In other words, we go back why these happened… were there reports that were ignored? Were there reports you acted upon? ...these things will come out in the investigation,” said Gazmin.

The defense chief said that the investigation will be up to brigade level.

Bukidnon is under the jurisdiction of the Army’s 403rd Brigade under Col. James Jacob, who could be relieved from his post if found remiss of his duty as commander.

On Tuesday night, around 100 NPA rebels simultaneously raided the Del Monte and Dole facilities, killing one security guard while two others were wounded.

The rebels also burned down three heavy equipment from Del Monte’s Camp Phillips.
The communists also set up two checkpoints along the highway in Sumilao and La Fortuna towns, divesting civilians of their valuables.

“Based on my experience, those (attacks) were well-planned,” said Gazmin, a former commanding general of the Army.

Initial reports said that the companies’ failure to give-in to the revolutionary taxation of the NPA as motive behind the attacks.

The communist group admitted responsibility over the attacks but maintained that they were meant to punish the companies for destruction of the environment.

The Defense secretary urged private businesses to coordinate closely with the military and the police whenever they receive such demand from the communist group. Gazmin cited the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center between the military and police as venue for such coordination.

“Most of those coming out are not paying revolutionary tax and they inform us after it happened but if they say that earlier, we can make action to prevent such from happening,” said Gazmin.

“If you don’t share information, how could you be helped,” added the Defense secretary.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/item/10855-dnd-chief-says-brigade-level-probe-on-military-failure-against-npa.html