The Department of Justice (DoJ) has recently made a recommendation to file terrorism charges against 11 individuals who are alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA). The accused individuals have been identified as Jovito Marquez, Antonio Baculo, Sonny Rogelio, Veginia Terrobias, Lena Gumpad, Job Abednego David, Jessie Almoguera, Reina Grace, Bethro Erardo Zapra Jr., Daisylyn Castillo Malucon, and Yvaan Corpuz Zuniga.
According to the DoJ, the charges stem from an incident that occurred on May 30, 2023, in Barangay Malisbong, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro. During this incident, the accused allegedly ambushed Philippine Army (PA) soldiers using high-powered firearms and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Remarkably, despite the attack, no casualties were reported among the army personnel.
The DoJ has characterized this act as an act of terrorism, as it was carried out with the intent to cause death, serious injury, and to instill a widespread atmosphere of fear, thereby destabilizing the fundamental political, economic, and social structures of the Philippines.
The Army’s 2nd Infantry “Junglefighter” Division had previously reported that its troops were engaged in focused military operations when they encountered armed individuals believed to be members of the Main Regional Guerilla Unit from the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee. The encounter took place in Sitio Pasugue, Barangay Malisbong, and resulted in a 20-minute firefight.
Following the clash, the troops were able to recover a significant amount of weaponry and supplies. These included three M16 rifles, 13 magazines, one fragmentation grenade, an anti-vehicle mine, five improvised hand grenades, 50 meters of wire, a detonating cord, four burlap sacks, four bandoliers, and four backpacks containing personal belongings.
It is worth noting that the charges of unlawful possession of firearms and explosives that were previously filed against the suspects were dismissed due to a lack of probable cause.
This recent recommendation by the DoJ to file terrorism charges against the alleged NPA members highlights the seriousness of the incident and the government’s commitment to combatting terrorism. Terrorism poses a significant threat to the safety and security of communities and undermines the stability of the nation.
The charges against these individuals serve as a reminder that acts of violence and terror will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable under the law. The DoJ’s decision to pursue terrorism charges demonstrates the government’s determination to address such threats and protect the well-being of its citizens.
As this case progresses, it is crucial to ensure that the legal process is fair, transparent, and in accordance with local laws and customs. It is through the proper application of justice that trust in the legal system is maintained and the rule of law is upheld.
In conclusion, the DoJ’s recommendation to file terrorism charges against the alleged NPA members involved in the ambush incident is a significant step towards addressing the threat of terrorism in the Philippines. By holding those responsible accountable for their actions, the government aims to create a safer and more secure environment for its citizens.
Source: The Manila Times
