MANILA, Philippines: In a decisive move, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has issued an order to ground commanders to destroy the remaining 11 guerrilla fronts of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) across the country. This comes as a part of the military’s relentless operations against the communist movement, which have significantly weakened guerrilla forces and led to the surrender of several rebel leaders.
The recent demise of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Ma. Sison on December 16, 2022, has further contributed to the decline of the NPA. Gen. Brawner emphasized that annihilating the remaining CPP/NPA fronts is a crucial aspect of the paradigm shift in dealing with internal threats.
Thanks to the military’s efforts, the number of rebel combatants has been significantly reduced from 25,000 to 1,500. Gen. Brawner expressed satisfaction with the accomplishments in defeating the communist terrorist group and local terrorists. However, he also acknowledged that despite their weakened state, the CPP/NPA still poses a force to reckon with.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently stated that the CPP/NPA no longer had any active guerrilla fronts. However, during the command conference held on Monday, the President was briefed on the status of the CPP/NPA and the existence of 11 inactive guerrilla fronts across the country. This highlights the importance of continued vigilance and sustained efforts to address the remaining pockets of insurgency.
Gen. Brawner stressed that while the CPP/NPA may be weakened, there are still NPA formations attempting to regain lost territories. To fully defeat the communist terrorist group, new targets have been assigned to commanders. By achieving this objective, the military will be able to shift its focus to territorial defense, ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
It is important to recognize the significance of this development in the context of the Philippines’ history and ongoing challenges. The CPP/NPA insurgency has been a persistent issue for the country, with its roots dating back to the late 1960s. Over the years, the government has implemented various strategies to address the communist movement, including military operations, peace negotiations, and socio-economic programs.
The current efforts to destroy the remaining guerrilla fronts reflect a commitment to upholding peace and stability in the Philippines. By effectively countering internal threats, the government aims to create an environment conducive to progress and development. This is particularly crucial as the nation strives to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and build a resilient future for its citizens.
It is worth noting that the success of these operations is not solely dependent on military action. Addressing the root causes of insurgency, such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice, is equally important. By implementing comprehensive approaches that combine security measures with socio-economic reforms, the government can pave the way for lasting peace and inclusive growth.
In conclusion, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.’s order to destroy the remaining communist guerrilla fronts marks a significant milestone in the fight against the CPP/NPA insurgency. While the group may still pose a threat, the military’s relentless operations have greatly weakened their forces. By continuing to address the remaining pockets of insurgency, the government aims to shift its focus to territorial defense and ensure the long-term security and prosperity of the nation.
Source: The Manila Times
