NTF exec calls for public vigilance ahead of CPP anniversary

National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr., who is also vice-chairperson of NTF ELCAC, said they have received reports that the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing New People’s Army  (CPP-NPA) have operationalized their Special Partisan Units (SPARU) to conduct assassinations and terrorist activities in urban areas to take advantage of the Yuletide season. (PCOO file photo)

MANILA – A ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC) has called on the public to be vigilant in the wake of reports that communist rebels have been ordered to launch operations to assassinate people who do not submit to their will as they mark their 51st year of existence and terrorism on Dec. 26.

National Security Adviser Hermogenes C. Esperon, Jr., who is also vice-chairperson of NTF ELCAC, said they have received reports that the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing New People’s Army  (CPP-NPA) have operationalized their Special Partisan Units (SPARU) to conduct assassinations and terrorist activities in urban areas to take advantage of the Yuletide season.

“Even as Christendom celebrates Christmas to remember the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, these atrocious communist terrorists seek to continue their attacks against our peace-loving people,” Secretary Esperon said in a statement Tuesday.

Law enforcement and security forces, he added, have been advised to take appropriate countermeasures against this sinister threat to general peace and order.

“While the rest of the country prepares to celebrate a joyous season with family and friends, the CPP/NPA/National Democratic Front (NDF) is preparing to destroy the very fabric of our democratic institutions,” he said.

With the success of the government’s programs to counter the communist terrorist groups, he said communists are growing more desperate to stem the tide and cling to whatever dwindling influence they have left.

“It is incumbent upon all Filipinos to unite and ensure the safety of our loved ones and communities, especially this Christmas and as we welcome the new year,” he said, urging the public to report any suspicious individuals or strange activities in their areas to the proper authorities.

The CPP-NPA, which has been waging five decades-old armed rebellion to overthrow the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.