Rescue effort for captured SAF chief continues

The Army yesterday vowed to press on with its operations to safely rescue one of its officers who were captured by communist rebels in Compostela Valley last month, following a pronouncement from Malacañang that it would not negotiate with the National Democratic Front for his release, a spokesman said.

Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner, Army spokesman said that the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, where captive officer Lt. Vicente Cammayo is assigned, is not planning to take the holiday break to ensure that there would be no let up in their operations to rescue their comrade.

He said that contrary to claims made by some sectors, the “no-negotiation” policy of the government does not mean the military is not concerned with the safety of its personnel.

“The Army will not in any way suspend the military operations unless ordered by higher headquarters. It stands firm not to negotiate with the New People’s Army terrorists, as it would be like giving in to their demands and ultimately surrendering the military’s duty to protect the Filipino people,” he said.

He said that even if Cammayo and captive police officer PO3 Eduardo Tumol are bound by their sworn duty to the country, even if that means laying down their own lives, the military would relentlessly conduct their operations until they are rescued, secured and reunited with their families.

Brawner also said the NPA should stop issuing propaganda on the condition of the captive officers, as it would only aggravate the agony being felt by their families.  – James Mananghaya