MANILA, Philippines — Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr.’s crusade against the communist movements appears to be relentless, as this time, he asked Manila Mayor Isko Moreno whether he is welcoming alleged terrorists from the New People’s Army (NPA) into the city.
Parlade’s question came after Moreno ordered tarpaulins in the city removed, in which the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) were declared as “persona non grata” or unwelcome persons.
“I don’t know who ordered it and I’m not privy to the latest decision of NTF ELCAC on this,” Parlade said in his personal Facebook account regarding as to who placed the tarpaulins. “But why not? 96 cities nationwide already declared the CPP NPA as PNG, so my question really is WHY JUST NOW in Manila?”
“Why would even Manila order the removal of these tarps? Is Mayor Isko welcoming this terrorist? Let’s clarify from Yorme the basis for his action? Is it fear of retribution?” he asked.
Through a Manila Public Information Office’s statement last Wednesday, Moreno explained why Manila got rid of the tarpaulins: “We spread love, not hate, in this time of the pandemic.”
A day after, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said that he would ask mayors to allow the anti-communist tarpaulins, as these are peaceful expressions of the people.
As of now, Moreno or the city of Manila has yet to give a statement on the issue.
Parlade is currently in hot water due to his message to actress Liza Soberano, whom he warned against being involved with Gabriela Women’s Party-list, which according to him, is a terrorist front. But the military official’s message was viewed by many as a veiled threat.
He also accused another actress, Angel Locsin, of not being honest with the alleged membership of her sister, Ella Colmenares, with the NPA. Colmenares denied this in a separate statement.
Parlade also noted that the Pamantasang Lungsod ng Maynila — a local government university in the city — is being led by Gabriela.
“Let’s take a look at the leadership of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. From Pres[ident] down, mostly Gabriela and staff of Taguiwalo booted out of DSWD. Who has the appointing power and authority in this university?” Parlade asked.
“Yes, Mayor. Let’s give peace a chance in Manila. Keep the terrorist CPP NPA NDF out of it,” he noted. [ac]