No offensives vs. Lumad groups: Lorenzana

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (Photo courtesy: PTV via PNA)

MANILA — The terror tag of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) does not automatically mean massive offensives will be conducted against Lumad groups.

This was emphasized by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in a statement released Saturday.

Lorenzana made the clarification after Lumad groups from unknown places demonstrated in front of Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Friday as they expressed fears that they and their communities will be targeted once the CPP-NPA is officially branded as a terrorist group.

“That is not true at all. If and when the CPP-NPA are tagged as terrorists by the court, it will apply only to their leaders, regular fighters and supporters,” Lorenzana said.

He also clarified that only Lumads who joined the NPA ranks and those who actively support the rebel group in whatever form will be included as terrorists and will be the subject of security operations.

“The rest of the peace loving Lumads need not worry.

They will be protected by the military and police,” the DND chief added.