The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) declared the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) “persona non-grata,” or unwelcome. According to City Councilor Al Victor Espino, who penned the resolution, cited Executive Order No. 16, s. 2017, which focused the nation on a united national security policy that calls for an end to all armed threats in the Philippines.
The city official noted, “There is a need to reframe and refocus the government policy for achieving inclusive and sustainable peace by recognizing that insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats are not only military and security concerns but are symptomatic of broader social, economic, and historical problems, such as poverty, historical injustice, social inequality, and lack of inclusivity, among others.”
“There is a need for a united and concerted effort with the police, military, and civilian population for the prevention and deterrence of any terrorism, insurgency, and highly organized crimes in the city and province,” he added.
Meanwhile, Bacolod City Police Office director, Police Colonel Henry Biñas, and Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, welcomed the development.
The military commander said it shows their great desire to keep Bacolod City free from the influence of the CPP-NPA and hopes more cities and municipalities will follow suit.
Last month, following a resolution signing and “Walk for Peace” at the Isabela Municipal Plaza, Isabela formally declared the NPA, along with the National Democratic Front, the political arm for the CPP, “persona non-grata.”/DGB, WDJ