INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
DIGOS CITY – The military confirmed that it has doubled security efforts for big enterprises in nearby Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur because of the continued extortion activities of the New People’s Army (NPA).
“We could not deny the fact that the NPA still extorts money from some traders in Sta. Cruz (Davao del Sur) despite tight security measures the army has been implementing for a long time,” Lt. Catherine Delima, speaking for the army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, said.
Delima said the 39th IB, headed by Lt. Col. Apollo Lamaton Jr., believes that the NPA would eventually harass large enterprises in the town if its demands continue to be rejected.
She said among the measures being taken is regular combat operations to ensure the rebels would not come close to the areas there businesses are located.
Among big businesses located in Sta. Cruz are the brewery of San Miguel Corp., Pryce Gas facilities, and the bulk depot of Sea Oil.
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