NEW leaders of the Cordillera Peoples Liberation Army (CPLA) will be actively campaigning for autonomy in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

Claiming the group was sidelined in the quest for autonomy since various changes of leadership in their organization took place, CPLA interim chairman Arsenio Humiding said with the efforts at cleansing their ranks is their renewed commitment to promoting independence in the region.

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Humiding replaced former CPLA chair Mailed Molina last October 22, during a command conference in Pasil, Kalinga.

In an effort to redeem the group’s image tarnished by allegations of extortion, harassment and other “anti-social” activities, Humiding said a committee called Oplan Dalus (to clean) was immediately formed to investigate allegations against the group.

Various government agencies have likewise been informed about Molina’s replacement.

The interim leadership will also pursue its integration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), focus on livelihood projects for its members and the cleansing of their ranks.

The interim leadership will set the stage for the election of new leaders on April 2010.

The group also appeared before the City Council Tuesday, disowning the illegal activities done by some of its members, as well as to apologize for “mistakes” done by some of its members.

Humiding was political officer, during Molina’s term.

Humiding said Molina was only replaced as leader, but he remains a member of the group. He said Molina may seek to regain his seat again should he wish to participate in next year’s elections.

Molina took over as chairman of the CPLA last year, following the death of CPLA leader Corazon Balweg, widow of rebel priest and CPLA founder, Conrado Balweg.

A former mayor of Bucloc town in Abra, Molina was arrested in 2007 for allegedly selling illegal drugs. (Rimaliza Opiña)