PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Chief Guillermo Eleazar on Monday, June 21, 2021, reminded politicians to not give in to the extortion activities of the communist terrorist groups during the 2022 election period.
Eleazar said the New People’s Army (NPA) is expected to take advantage of the elections for financial gain by demanding “permit-to-campaign fees” from politicians who plan to run for public office in local or national elections.
He said paying such fees means giving support to the communist group.
Eleazar said these politicians may be charged for violation of Republic Act 10168, or the Terrorism and Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012, which is punishable with 20 to 40 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to P500,000.
He said they may also be held accountable as a principal in terrorist activities under Section 12 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and could face charges under the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines.
“Ayon po dito sa Republic Act 10168, nahaharap sa kaso ang sinumang magbibigay ng suportang pinansyal sa alinmang teroristang grupo. Any amount given to the terrorist group would be considered financial support to enable the group to carry out an attack,” he said.
“Nanawagan po tayo sa mga balak kumandidato sa nalalapit na halalan na huwag po tayo magbibigay ng tinatawag na ‘permit-to-campaign fee’ sa CPP/NPA dahil wala itong pinagkaiba sa pagsuporta sa mga rebeldeng komunista at sa kanilang paghahasik ng karahasan sa ating mga komunidad. As public officials or soon to be public officials, you are at all times accountable to the people and must uphold public interest over personal interest,” he added.
A politician could also have his property, funds, and other assets frozen by the Anti-Money Laundering Council. (Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo / SunStar Philippines)