PNP steps up drive against NPA campaign fees

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its intelligence and tactical operations against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels collecting campaign fees.

PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima also warned politicians against giving in to the extortion demands of the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

“Let me remind would-be victims of this criminal scheme of the CPP/NPA that the act of giving any amount or item of value to the communist terrorists is tantamount to disloyalty punishable under the Revised Penal Code,” Purisima said.

Purisima said a donor may be held liable as co-conspirator in the crime of rebellion if it is proven that the “fee” is made as part of a conspiracy to overthrow the government.

The PNP chief added that those running for re-election who give in to the extortion demands of the NPA could also be charged with violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Government Officials.

Purisima, through Chief Superintendent Alex Paul Monteagudo, PNP director for operations, directed all police regional offices, including the PNP Intelligence Group and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to initiate proactive measures against hostile actions of the CPP/NPA, particularly the rebels’ fund-raising scheme.

He also instructed the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations in insurgency-affected regions to field tactical units against CPP/NPA insurgents preying on candidates.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr. said the police will also take action against communist rebels who serve as private armies of politicians.