'Don't give in to NPA demands'

MANILA, Philippines - A senior Army official has appealed to all business leaders in northern Mindanao to be more vigilant against the extortion activities of the New People’s Army (NPA), which he describes as a “monster” out to “devour” them later.

Col. Romeo Gan, commander of the Army’s 401st Infantry Brigade, also reminded company owners that there is no guarantee that if they give in to the NPA’s extortion demands, their businesses would already be safe from the insurgents’ future atrocities. 

“If you give in to their extortion demands, you are just feeding a monster to become a bigger monster. Do not wait until they devour you as a whole,” Gan told the business leaders.

Gan made the appeal following the rise in NPA extortion activities, the latest of which was the burning of heavy mining equipment of Bislig Ventures last Sept. 6 in Lingig, Surigao del Sur.  

The rebels also went on a burning rampage in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur last Aug. 24 just to sow fear among businessmen.  

According to reports, the rebels have increased their extortion demands, prompting companies engage in mining and logging operations to fight and resist them. 

The insurgents, alarmed by the resistance of these business leaders to their demands, attacked several mining firms and burned their equipment to instill fear among them.

Instead of giving in to NPA pressure, Gan said business leaders should coordinate with the local police and military units to put a stop to its extortion activities.

Gan said the reason why Mayor Henry Dano of Lingig, Surigao del Sur was seized by the rebels last month is to instill fear among local executives. 

“The truth is that this is all about extortion. The kidnapping was carried out to threaten all town executives so that they will easily give in to their demands,” Gan said. 

Dano and his two Army escorts are still in the hands of the rebels.