TACLOBAN CITY— A former member of a communist rebel group has come forward to seek justice over alleged sexual abuse she suffered as a minor while inside the armed movement, military officials said.
‘Rea’, now in her early 20s, accused a squad leader identified as Paterno Opo of repeatedly abusing her when she was just 14 years old, after her family was recruited into the communist armed group, the New People’s Army(NPA)in 2017.
According to information released by authorities at Camp Lukban, Rea’s family, who were farmers from the remote town of Hindang, Leyte, were persuaded by armed rebels to join the movement with promises of a better life. However, these promises allegedly turned into threats, forcing the entire family to leave their home and live in the mountains.
Instead of improved conditions, Rea said they endured hardship, including hunger, exhaustion, and constant movement to evade government forces. She and her sister were later separated from their parents upon orders of rebel leaders.
During this period, Rea claimed she was subjected to repeated sexual abuse by Opo. She said her complaints were ignored by the group’s leadership.
“When I started reporting the abuse, they promised justice… but nothing happened,” Rea said.
The experience left lasting trauma. “Because of the trauma, I became afraid even of simple social interactions,” she added.
Her father reportedly attempted to seek accountability but was prevented from taking action and was even disarmed by fellow rebels, underscoring what authorities described as the group’s failure to address abuses within its ranks.
In 2020, Rea decided to leave the armed group and surrender to government forces. She later filed a case against Opo, which remains pending.
Now rebuilding her life, Rea has spoken out to warn others, particularly the youth, against joining insurgent groups.
“Do not be deceived. You don’t have to experience hardship and pain just to know the truth. Believe those of us who have already gone through it,” she said.
She also issued a direct message to the accused: “Face the case against you. Take responsibility for what you did.”
Military officials said Rea’s case highlights alleged abuses and exploitation within rebel groups and underscores the need to protect vulnerable individuals, especially minors, from recruitment into armed movements.
Authorities reiterated their call for remaining members of insurgent groups to surrender and avail of government reintegration programs, while assuring support for victims seeking justice.
(ROBERT DEJON)
