Ex-rebel files coercion, rob raps vs comrades in Negros Oriental

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — A former member of the NPA has filed charges of grave coercion and robbery against his former comrades in Guihulngan City of Negros Oriental.

Oliver Villahermosa, a former NPA rebel who earlier surrendered in Barangay Tacpao of Guihulngan City, filed the charges against NPA members Enric Calago, Rosalie Calago, Elizabeth Grayan, Felisa Calago and six other armed men, said a media release from the 11th Infantry Battalion.

The 11th IB, who aided in the filing of the complaints, alleged that the respondents forcibly entered the house of Villahermosa at 8 p.m. last February 16 and threatened him.

The group also allegedly declared its "Barangay Arrest System," which prohibits Villahermosa from staying within Negros Island for three years, starting at 24 hours after declaring the punishment.

The NPA further wanted to punish Villahermosa for surrendering to the Bayanihan Team of the Philippine Army and for availing of incentives from the provincial government, said Capt. Danilo Mutoc, acting Civil Military Operations Officer of the 11th IB.

Villahermosa, in his complaints, stated that "the group also prevented him from receiving the cash incentive, which was due for release to him, because it will create demoralization among NPA ranks in the hinterland barangays."

The complaints, filed at the Guihulngan City Police for the subsequent filing at the prosecutor's office, further stated that the respondents allegedly took two cellular phones from Villahermosa.  (FREEMAN)