ILOILO City – The 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army and the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) are calling on election candidates not to pay campaign fees to the New People’s Army (NPA).
The weeklong period for the filing of certificates of candidacy begins on October 1.
Candidates who pay so-called “revolutionary” or “campaign fees” to rebels could face charges of conspiracy to commit rebellion, warned Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines, spokesperson for the 3ID.
He emphasized that any financial support to rebels may be interpreted as aiding their cause.
“Even though many rebel leaders have been neutralized, we cannot be complacent. The rebels will do anything to survive, including attempting to extort money from local candidates,” Javines said.
He added that soldiers are closely monitoring areas where the NPA is reportedly active, which has made it more difficult for the rebels to collect campaign fees.
Similarly, Brigadier General Jack Wanky, director of PRO-6, stressed the importance of cooperation between the police and military to prevent rebel activities. He urged politicians to resist any demands from rebel groups.
“Providing funds to the enemy is a direct support to their cause, and it constitutes a conspiracy. We are increasing our monitoring efforts to discourage candidates from giving in to these demands,” said Wanky.
The PRO-6 chief also warned that incumbent officials who provide financial support to rebels may violate the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Government Officials.
He assured the public that the authorities are committed to preventing rebels from carrying out illegal activities during the election period./PN