Leftist groups complain of ‘heightened’ surveillance

Leftist activists condemned what they described as “heightened” surveillance by government agents as part of a supposed crackdown on leftist organizations.

“The government seems not bent on stopping its campaign of oppression against its critics, even amid the widening criticism against its crackdown,” said Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite.

Gaite said that on the morning of Nov. 5, a gray sports utility vehicle with license plate ZVJ 507 was spotted allegedly surveilling the former office of the Confederation for Unity Recognition Government Employees at the Capitol Estate Subdivision in Quezon City.

Security guards said the driver identified himself as Mario Rivero, who claimed he was “from Camp Aguinaldo.” Activist groups have been on alert after several offices including those of Bayan Muna and Gabriela party list groups were raided and dozens of activists arrested..—MELVIN GASCON