MURCIA, Negros Occidental - Brigadier General Dinoh Dolina, commander of 3rd Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army based in Capiz, reminded the again community, particularly businessmen, to never "give in" on the extortion activities of New People's Army (NPA).
Dolina led the change of command of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IB) at Camp Major Nelson Gerona in Barangay Minoyan here Thursday.
During the turnover rites yesterday, Colonel Alberto Desoyo assumed the post of Brigadier General Eliezer Losañes as commander of 303rd IB. Losañes will be assigned to Samar as assistant division commander of the 8th ID.
Desoyo, in a media interview, also advised the community to never put themselves in a disadvantaged position by giving in to the extortion activities of the rebels.
He pointed out, "Kapag hiningan kayo? Sinong agrabyado? Di ba kayo? (If they ask something from you? Who is being taken advantage of? It is still you.)”
As this developed, Dolina said the military should strengthen their engagement with the community, especially stakeholders and businessmen to prevent rebels from doing extortion activities.
"It will only strengthen the movement of rebels if they give in to them," he added.
On May 26, Reymark Pedro with aliases "Bobby, Recoy, Reymark Labrador," 23, a native of Sipalay City, an alleged NPA extortion leader was arrested at Sitio Gusnit, Barangay Pinggot, Ilog town after his group was reported for extortion in the area. His seven other companions, including two girls, were able to escape.
Authorities recovered from Pedro's bag P3,050 in cash, 37 ammunition, six rounds of M16 bullets, extortion letters that bear the logo of “Armando Sumayang Command of the Southwest Front”, and subversive documents. It also contained documents that confirmed Pedro’s affiliation to the rebel group through the certification of completion he garnered as the best officer from NPA's Apolinario Gatmaitan Command.
Dolina also said the military should also ensure the coordination between the Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to prevent the rebel group from destroying the flagship projects of the government through the burning of heavy equipment.
"It only shows that they are anti-development," he added.
Dolina said he instructed Desoyo to focus their efforts on clearing operations particularly in the area of central Negros to accomplish their targets given by the higher headquarters.
Desoyo, for his part, slammed the recent atrocities perpetrated by the rebels.
Desoyo urged the troops to do their jobs in ensuring peace and order in the province.
He appealed to Negrenses to love the province and help the authorities for the good of the province.
Meanwhile, Losañes thanked everyone who supported and helped him with his programs during his one year and three months stint here.
Losañes received a medal and plaque for his invaluable service and contribution during his stint in the province.