Reds seek release of captured leader

MANILA, Philippines — The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has demanded the immediate release of its “acting chairman” Wigberto “Baylon” Villarico, arguing that he was covered by a safe passage agreement with the government.

“The arrest of Villarico is in blatant disregard of the Jasig (or Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees).

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The military and police responsible for Villarico’s arrest must be held responsible for this violation,” he said.

But National Security Council (NSC) spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said the demand was “funny and preposterous” because the Jasig was terminated in 2017.

The Joint Oslo Communique of 2023 signed under the Marcos administration with the National Democratic Front “did not resurrect” the Jasig, he added.

The NSC official pointed out that Villarico was arrested based on a warrant of arrest issued by Mauban, Quezon regional trial court for multiple crimes, including extortion, recruiting of minors and students to be combatants, violation of Anti-Terrorism Act, rebellion and kidnapping with murder. —Nestor Corrales