(PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY — Residents from several barangays in Northern Samar and Eastern Samar staged an indignation rally on December 26, voicing their rejection of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army–National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and calling for an end to armed violence in their communities.
The rally, held in observance of the group’s 57th founding anniversary, drew more than 400 participants from Barangays Bulao and San Isidro in Las Navas, Barangay Bonifacio in Catubig, Northern Samar, and Barangay Cagmanaba in Jipapad, Eastern Samar.
Participants carried placards and banners denouncing armed conflict, extortion, harassment of civilians, and the recruitment of minors. Former members of the communist movement also spoke during the program, sharing their experiences and describing how they were recruited and later chose to leave the group.
Organizers said residents signed documents formally withdrawing support from the CPP-NPA-NDF and expressed backing for government-led peace and development initiatives. The activity ended with the symbolic burning of CPP-NPA flags.
Residents said the rally demonstrated their collective support for peaceful, democratic processes and their commitment to security and development in their communities.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
