By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

In response to the recent criticism by the Negros Occidental chapter of the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines, 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) commander, Brigadier General Dinoh Dolina, lashed out at the rebel groups for recruiting children as soldiers.

Dolina criticized the NPA and NDF for brainwashing children and exposing them to a culture of violence and terrorism.

He pointed out they are the ones who are committing human rights abuse for forcing children to carry firearms and take part in armed struggle.

Dolina also denied allegations of harassment against the six earlier captured NPA rebels, pointing out the two captured minors admitted, in the presence local media, to possessing firearms.

Dolina also encouraged the youth to stay in school and prioritize their studies, and to not allow their minds to be exploited terrorist organizations.

“Don’t waste your gift of wisdom,” he added. “Prioritize your studies and use your competency and capabilities in good deeds that could truly help your family and community.”

Earlier this week, NDF-Negros released a statement condemning the arrest of the group, calling it “illegal” and a “grave human rights abuse.”

The six NPA members were captured following a gun battle at Sitio Tumonon in the town of Mabinay, Negros Oriental.

Recovered from the scene were several high-powered firearms, rifle grenades, explosives, among other “war fighting materials.”/DGB, WDJ