In a press statement released by the military’s Northern Luzon Command, suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were reportedly lately visible in areas where vital installations and other soft targets are located.
The areas frequented by suspicious looking armed men, according to civilians are the vicinities of the Sual Thermal Power Project in Pangasinan, the Masinloc Power Plant in Zambales, the Pagbilao Power Plant in Quezon, and the Globe Tower in Tarlac.
Authorities believe that these power plants and te-lecommunication facilities are the next targets of the NPA to create a chaotic atmosphere that is likely to impact on the Philippine economy and the embattled leadership of President Arroyo.
On Oct. 2, the Globe Switch Center in Barangay Maliwalo, Tarlac City was torched by NPAs clad in military uniforms. The building’s security guard, Arwin Salac, was also disarmed by the perpetrators.
"The residents fear that a reign of terror will prevail in their communities if they allow the enemies of the state to execute their sinister plans without exerting any effort to stop it," the statement said.
NOLCOM Chief Maj. Gen. Romeo Tolentino said he appreciates the fact that civilians are taking an active part in the government’s campaign against terrorism because without their support and cooperation, it will be very hard for the Armed Forces and the police to monitor the movements and plans of the insurgents.
Tolentino directed Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan Jr., commander of 7th Infantry Division, and Maj. Gen. Ericson Aurelio, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, to double their vigilance, knowing the NPA’s propensity to attack when least expected.
"We should not allow these terrorists to continue terrorizing our people," he said.