BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – As the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) marks its 56th anniversary on December 26, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) and Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) have raised their alert levels to counter potential threats from the New People’s Army (NPA), the CPP’s armed wing.
Police Colonel Gilbert Gorero, chief of the Regional Operations Division of PRO-6, said security forces are on heightened alert.
“We are prioritizing security to ensure the safety of both our personnel and civilians. While the CPP celebrates, we are vigilant against any potential attacks,” he said.
Gorero reported significant progress in curtailing NPA activities in Western Visayas, noting only one remaining active front in the region.
He added that most NPA fronts in Negros have already been dismantled.
Colonel Erwin Lamzon, assistant division commander for administration of the 3ID, emphasized the close coordination between the military and police.
“We are continuously monitoring the situation, especially with the possibility of a ceasefire announcement from the CPP,” Lamzon said.
He also clarified the distinction between combatants and civilians who may join anniversary-related gatherings.
“Not everyone present at such events is an armed fighter. Many are civilians or non-combatants, and our response will align with directives from higher authorities,” he said.
Joint security protocols are being strengthened to ensure peace and order across communities during this critical period. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The government has designated the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization./PN
