Bacolod City spurns Reds

BACOLOD City – The local government unit of this city has declared leaders and members of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, as persona non grata (unwelcome person).

In a bid to attain inclusive and sustainable peace in the capital city, Bacolod made the declaration through a resolution passed by the City Council last week.

Councilor Al Victor Espino, who authored the resolution as chairperson of the City Council committee on police matters, peace and order, and illegal drugs, confirmed the approval of the resolution on Friday.

“The atrocities perpetrated by the communist-terrorist group does not only disturb the socio-economic status of the city and the province, but more importantly, it hinders the goal of achieving peace and order,” a portion of the resolution read.

“There is also a need to reframe and refocus the government policy for achieving inclusive and sustainable peace by recognizing that insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts and threats are not only military and security concerns, but are symptomatic of broader social, economic and historical problems such poverty, historical injustice, social inequality, and lack of inclusivity, among others,” it added.

The Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade based in neighboring Murcia town lauded the move this city.

“It’s a welcome development. It really shows their great desire to keep Bacolod City free from the influence of the CPP-NPA. I hope (more) cities and municipalities will follow the lead of Bacolod,” brigade commander Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo said.

“We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the oppressed. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented” is apt,” he added./PN

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