New People’s Army (NPA) | INQUIRER.net file photo
ILOILO CITY — State forces have urged candidates not to give in to demands for “campaign fees” from the New People’s Army (NPA), as the election season draws near.
The 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army and the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO-6) have issued the warning, saying that such fees could lead to legal trouble for candidates, including charges of conspiracy to commit rebellion.
“Candidates who financially support rebels could be seen as directly aiding their cause,” warned Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines, spokesperson for the 3ID, in a statement.
Despite the neutralization of several rebel leaders, Javines cautioned against complacency, stating that the NPA would still try to survive by extorting money from politicians.
Javines said the military was closely monitoring areas where the NPA remains active, making it more difficult for the group to collect so-called revolutionary fees from local bets.
“We’ve stepped up monitoring in NPA hotspots, and we’re not letting them get a free pass this election season,” he added.
Brigadier General Jack Wanky, head of PRO-6, reiterated the need for strong cooperation between the police and military to thwart any rebel extortion activities.
“Providing funds to the enemy is direct support to their cause, and it constitutes a conspiracy,” Wanky said, emphasizing that they are boosting surveillance to prevent candidates from falling into the NPA’s trap.
Wanky also reminded officials that backing rebel groups financially is not only illegal but also violates the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Government Officials.
“It’s not just a bad decision, it’s a legal nightmare for anyone holding public office,” he said.
Authorities reassured the public that their efforts are in full force to crack down on illegal rebel activities during the election period.
With the NPA still posing a threat, military and police officials are urging candidates to resist any demands, keeping the upcoming elections clean and free from insurgent influence. As election fever heats up, the message is clear: no candidate should risk breaking the law by engaging with rebel groups.
“We won’t tolerate any candidate funding the enemy’s cause,” Wanky said.