303IB: No ceasefire with the NPA

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Amid the upcoming observance of the Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday, April 14, the commander of the Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB) said there will be no ceasefire with  the New People’s Army (NPA).

303IB commander, Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, said all units will continue combat operations against the rebels in order to prevent them from committing atrocities against the local populace.

He said the local military is currently preparing security plans for the Holy Week observance, along with next month’s midterm elections.

The general also requested the public to remain vigilant of any suspicious individuals in their area.

Arevalo added, police can request military assistance in securing transport terminals if necessary.

He noted, they will also have K-9 units on standby.

Earlier this week, Arevalo visited National Democratic Front (NDF) spokesperson Frank Fernandez and Cleofe Lagtapon at the Philippine Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

During the meeting, he expressed contentment with finally seeing Fernandez in person and in military custody.

“I just came here to see you and let the people of Negros know that the Army is treating you well,” Arevalo said to the NDF official./DGB, WDJ