DND backs localized initiatives with Reds

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The national government will not pursue peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said yesterday, stressing instead the importance of localized peace mechanisms and reintegration programs for rebel returnees.

In an interview at the Provincial Capitol of Negros Occidental, Teodoro emphasized that the government is now focused on community-based approaches and military operations aimed at weakening armed insurgent groups.

He said the government remains open to accepting rebels who choose to surrender and return to mainstream society, with assistance coming from local government units.

According to Teodoro, recent attacks by communist rebels against former rebels and civilians tagged as military spies may be attempts to counter the efforts of local chief executives encouraging fighters to surrender and reintegrate into society.

“It is also an alternative form of punishment for those who return,” he said.

The defense chief lauded the provincial government of Negros Occidental and some of the mayors for their support to the local peace initiatives and reintegration initiatives for former rebels.

Asked how the insurgency could ultimately end, Teodoro said communist rebellion should be viewed as a continuing security phenomenon similar to criminality.

“Insurgency depends on the characterization. It is a phenomenon, just like criminality. You cannot stop it completely, but you can reduce the armed terrorists,” he said.

Teodoro added that the focus of the Armed Forces of the Philippines is to protect communities and prevent terrorism, warning that even smaller extremist groups can still inflict significant harm.

“We need a bigger armed force in order to protect communities and guard against terrorism. Terrorism may be fewer in number but potentially more damaging because it becomes more indiscriminate,” he said.