By ERWIN ‘AMBO’ DELILAN
INSURGENCY in Negros is becoming a significant concern again. The New People’s Army (NPA) seems to be more aggressive recently. According to the Philippine Army’s report from Oct. 10, 2023, their actions are reprehensible.
From Jan. 1, 2022, to now, the Army states that Negros-based Reds, recently labelled as “Communist Terrorist Group” (CTG), have been involved in 51 violent incidents on Negros Island.
The Army has revealed that these rebels are responsible for the death of 34 civilians, five soldiers, three ex-rebels, four government officials, and one police officer — a total of 47 individuals. Heartbreaking, isn’t it?
The Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division chief, Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, made a heartfelt appeal to San Carlos Bishop Gerry Alminaza for assistance in their pursuit of peace in Negros.
Additionally, Sison has called upon the media and ordinary Negrenses to join their fight against the NPA, expressing his commitment to eradicating the NPA in Negros by year-end. Is that achievable? Time will tell.
Deepening the Wounds
When discussing the current insurgency state in Negros Island, four mayors from the Occidental region have voiced their frustrations. They’re puzzled as to why the insurgency continues in Negros, despite the government’s full support for counter-insurgency initiatives.
Compounding their concerns, Negros Occidental’s Gov. Bong Lacson commented on the recurring cycle of violence, property destruction, and civilian casualties, stating they “deepen the wounds of our society.”
There’s profound truth in the governor’s statement. To many, it might be surprising, but current events are making Negrenses realize that insurgency in Negros is growing increasingly malicious.
And this surge in aggression is especially concerning given it’s happening under Sison’s leadership of the Army’s 3ID.
Traumatic and Painful
Sison, in his gentlemanly manner, acknowledged the trauma and pain the NPA’s actions inflict on victims’ families. During a press conference, he implored attendees to empathize with the victims’ families, emphasizing the collective responsibility of both the Army and Police, and the community, in the pursuit of peace in Negros.
Despite his insights, questions remain. What has changed recently? Why are the NPA rebels becoming more aggressive? Are the Negrenses not cooperating with peace initiatives? Is there a lapse in collaboration between the local government in Negros and security forces?
‘Lack of Sincerity’
The insurgency in Negros has transcended politics. With visible and tangible support from both national and local governments, especially through the two-year-old National Task Force to End Local Communism and Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), one wonders what’s missing.
Some mayors believe that the Army’s current leadership in Negros lacks genuine commitment to the anti-insurgency campaign, contributing to the deteriorating peace and order situation.
Sison’s inaccessibility to the press in NegOcc hasn’t helped. Journalists find it challenging to contact him during skirmishes. His approach is in stark contrast to his media-friendly predecessor, General Benedict Arevalo.
During a recent press conference, I personally asked Sison about his unavailability for media interviews. He responded that the media could speak with his spokesperson, implying their views are aligned. However, it’s essential to note that the perspective of higher-ranking officials often carries more weight.
Iota of Hope
For effective communication on insurgency, the narrative needs diverse voices to help people understand the conflict’s complexity.
Bullets and infrastructure alone cannot resolve the insurgency in Negros. Authentic engagement and sincerity might.
The longstanding insurgency issue in Negros has marred the island’s reputation. Governor Bong’s comments on the deepening societal wounds resonate deeply.
Is there still hope? Perhaps a glimmer. But it heavily depends on Sison’s current approach. His choice to distance himself from the media might not be criminal, but it can hinder the military’s quest for peace./PN
