The spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Spearhead Division, Philippine Army, proudly highlighted the achievements of their unit in suppressing insurgency in the region.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Colonel Erwin Rommel P. Lamzon, Head of the Public Affairs Office of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, stated that the number of active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) has consistently decreased. Currently, the remaining rebel forces are fewer than fifteen (15).
At present, the focus of their efforts is on stopping the remnants of the NPA and addressing threats related to terrorism financing.
One of the leading initiatives of the 3rd Infantry Spearhead Division is the spread of outreach programs for former rebels and communities affected by insurgency. According to Lamzon, the government continues to provide essential needs such as food, medicine, and other assistance to areas affected by the insurgency.
Moreover, the division is also focused on efforts to curb the recruitment of youth and women by terrorist groups. Lamzon mentioned that there are still some areas in the region where rebel groups continue to be active in recruitment.
Included in the strategies of the 3rd Infantry Division are supporting legal cooperation and sectoral unification, aimed at improving the relationship between the government and local communities. These efforts are designed to provide opportunities for former rebels and communities that served as insurgency strongholds to unite and work together towards a common goal of peace and order.
Overall, the 3rd Infantry Spearhead Division has shown its dedication to maintaining peace and order in the region. Through their continuous support for initiatives targeting rebels who have returned to the government fold, they hope to encourage more NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society to start a new life.
Interviewed by Bombo Francis Biñas and Bombo Sunnie Mae Batencila
