Rosales fears possible kidnapping

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The leader of the Negros Occidental chapter of labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) is reportedly on the list of individuals wanted in connection with the alleged “Red October” plot to oust President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a radio interview over the weekend, KMU-Negros Occidental Secretary-General Noli Rosales said he was informed the Philippine Army 79th and 15th Infantry Battalions, which are based in the southern part of the province, both had his name on their lists.

He added, other local militant and progressive leaders in Negros Occidental are also listed, but refused to name them as he is still clarifying the information.

Rosales also said he did not know why their names were included, stating, they are only criticizing the government and have no intention of rebelling against the state. He would like the government to offer an opportunity to provide an explanation, noting, in the meantime, the KMU chief believes there is a possibility he may be kidnapped.

The labor leader recommended the government go after the New People’s Army (NPA) and not activists.

Last week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) claimed they recovered a laptop and documents from suspected NPA members that reportedly contained plans on how to remove Duterte from office.

AFP Deputy Chief operations chief of staff, Brigadier General Antonio Parlade, Jr., said the evidence was seized during a counter-insurgency operation in northern Mindanao last July.

The Communist Party of the Philippines, meanwhile, denied the allegations and accused the AFP of spreading lies./DGB, WDJ