THE Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) went on full alert status as they prepare for possible rebel attacks, following the ambush incidents staged by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay Island.
Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Castil Jr., director of Nocppo, said in a statement Monday that they strongly condemn the attacks in Western Visayas and other parts of the country.
On November 24, a policeman was killed while 10 others were wounded after a group of rebels fired at them on their way to the Regional Public Safety Battalion-6 camp in Barangay Bolo in Maasin, Iloilo.
Two days before, three police officers were injured when the improvised explosive device allegedly planted by the communist rebels exploded in Sibalom, Antique.
Castil said the rebels wanted to regain and establish their existence, but all police stations and units in the province will not be demoralized and will not lower their guards to preempt possible enemy attacks.
“We are expecting something big on or before December 26 for it is the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), but the police is preparing for it,” he added.
The provincial police also appealed to the public for their cooperation.
“Let us act together to end the long suffering from senseless war and unnecessary loss of lives. The cooperation and participation of the community and the police will help attain the peace and order in the province,” Castil said.
Both the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) and the Nocppo condemned the recent rebel attack in Maasin, Iloilo which they considered as “barbaric.”
As part of its security measures, the BCPO is also intensifying their target hardening measures to avoid entry of intruders at the headquarters.