Insurgency still a threat to 2016 polls in Region 8 - Army

TACLOBAN CITY, Jan. 14 (PNA) – Insurgency is still a primary concern of the Philippine Army on its bid to achieve honest, peaceful and orderly elections on May 9, 2016.

“The New People’s Army (NPA) is the number one threat at the national level and our major challenge in the region as well. We are closely monitoring their activities as part of our security preparations,” said Col. Cesar Idio, Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division assistant commander.

The military expects the armed rebels will collect fees on permit to campaign, permit to win, and permit to enter. The money generated through “extortion” will be used to launch more attacks against the government, according to the military official.

“Their activities aimed at embarrassing the government, but these are under our control,” Idio added.

Despite recent attacks launched by the NPA against the military in Samar provinces, the official is optimistic of the peaceful situation ahead of Election Day due to intensified security operations.

“But we are not complacent as we prepare mitigation plans and possible security measures for every possible scenario,” he told reporters.

The military and the police are deputized by the Comelec to ensure honest orderly and peaceful elections.

Meanwhile, Idio reminded soldiers to remain non-partisan since voters are depending much on government troops in “upholding their best interest.”

“The success that we can attain in the coming elections will showcase how we have matured as an institution. We, the Comelec and the police are the last bastion of people during elections.”

“During this period, the watchful eyes of the people are on us, waiting for us to do our mandated tasks, while others are there to see if we do otherwise,” Idio added. (PNA)
FFC/SARWELL Q. MENIANO