The Philippine Army in Davao region and portions of Southern and Central Mindanao has been on high alert as the communist New People’s Army commemorated its 48th founding anniversary on Wednesday, March 29.
Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division said all units in their areas of responsibility were ordered to be on guard and high alert for possible attacks and atrocities of the NPAs during the celebration.
“There is no suspension of military operations. No order has been issued on this from the higher command,” Batchar said.
He also urged the NPAs in the area to “assemble peacefully during your celebration” without any violence.
Batchar added that the rebels should not force or intimidate civilians in villages to come out and join their celebration.
The National Democratic Front in Southern Mindanao Region, in a statement sent to the media here on Wednesday said people are joining the 48th anniversary of the NPAs to advance the peoples’ war amidst the changing political landscape in the country.
The group said no changes are experienced by the Filipino people and communities in almost a year of the new administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
They also criticized the President for giving in to the rightists and militarists as the militarization in the countryside continues under his administration.
But the group also recognized that the continuation of peace talks with the government is vital to achieve lasting and just peace in the country.
“We are for the resumption of the peace negotiations,” Batchar said, adding that the army is just waiting for the decision of President Duterte to continue the peace talks.
He said the people, especially those in the countryside really want the peace talks to continue.
The army, Batchar said, is ready to support the desires and aspirations of the people for just and lasting peace.
