Military braces for NPA attacks in Cagayan Valley

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – The military is bracing for terrorist attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the region in what could be a show of force in connection with its founding anniversary on March 29. 

Lt. Col. Miguel Puyao, spokesman of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division based in Isabela, said they are not letting their guard down as the traditionally Maoist NPA is noted for making its presence felt during its founding anniversary.

“There’s no need to formally declare a red alert, however. We will just remain extra vigilant even if we remain on normal alert throughout (their anniversary),” he said. 

Chief Superintendent Rodrigo de Gracia, Cagayan Valley police director, has ordered all police units in the region to be on heightened alert in the run-up to the NPA’s anniversary as well as during the Holy Week. 

Last week, government troops and at least 25 insurgents clashed in northern Santa Teresita town in Cagayan, which left two rebels dead.

Reports identified one of the slain rebels as Edmund Yadan Soriano, said to be the brother of David Soriano, political officer of the NPA’s northern Cagayan command. 

The rebels were reportedly raising funds and recruiting villagers in Barangay Aridowen, Santa Teresita town when soldiers chanced upon them.