Reds fail in recruitment drive

MANILA, Philippines - The Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has failed in its recruitment efforts, according to a military official.

Maj. Ray Tiongson, 3rd Infantry Division spokesman, said they have not monitored any recruitment or “exposure trips” despite the heightened recruitment of the rebel group, which is marking its 46th anniversary tomorrow.

The CPP brings recruits to the countryside for immersion activities with the NPA during these exposure trips. Authorities have warned that communist rebels take advantage of the suspension of police and military offensives for this activity.

“A lot of factors contributed to this. They have a leadership vacuum because of the arrest of their leaders,” Tiongson said.

He said financial constraints also limit the  rebel group’s engagement with government troops. “They have very limited combatants to stage an offensive,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tiongson said Roxas City in Capiz has been declared “peaceful and ready for further development” due to the improved security situation there.

Roxas City Mayor Angel Alan Celino, 61st Infantry Battalion chief Lt. Col. Victor Llapitan and Superintendent Julio Gustilo signed the joint memorandum on the declaration on Monday. 

The military declares an area peaceful and ready for further development if the strength of rebels within its jurisdiction is too small.

The military has so far issued the same declaration in 50 provinces. – With Alexis Romero