By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

After the New People’s Army (NPA) issued a statement saying they will conduct attacks in response to the recent extension of Martial Law in Mindanao, the Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade (303 IB) assured the public not to worry.

303 IB commander, Army Colonel Benedict Arevalo, said the NPA statements are not new and, even though the Martial Law issue had not been decided in the past, they have still been attacking military, police, and civilians.

He added, even if they were to ask residents from Mindanao, a majority would support the Martial Law extension as it brought peace and assurance to the public.

Earlier, 303 IB said they will remain on ‘full alert’ status despite the NPA declaring a ceasefire for the holiday season.

Arevalo said, if the NPA follows their truce or not, it will not have any effect on the present security situation.

He added, NPA rebels usually conduct attacks before and after the day of the ceasefire./DGB, WDJ