AFP on alert for NPA threats vs lumads

MANILA, Philippines - The military in Northern Mindanao is on alert following reports that suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels plan to burn a school for members of the lumad tribe in Bukidnon.

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesman for the 4th Infantry Division, said lumad tribesmen in Barangay White Kulaman, Kitaotao town shut down the MISFI School as a precautionary measure.

“Our soldiers are closely watching developments on the ground,” Martinez said.

Col. Jesse Alvarez, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, gave assurance the military would thwart any attempt by NPA rebels to burn the school.

At least five NPA rebels were sighted in the nearby village of Dao Sub reportedly plotting to torch MISFI.

MISFI is among the more than 300 alternative learning schools put up by various non-government organizations for lumad children. The school operates without accreditation from the Department of Education.