Army on 'Lenten mode' but...
Army soldiers tasked on keeping Panay Island safe and secured are one with the Christian world this season of Lent.
With concerns though of harassment and threats posed by local communist rebels, the Philippine Army (PA) here said vigilance is still maintained. And especially so this long weekend break as alongside religious activities, thousands of tourists and more in local travelers are expected to be busiest.
The Army in a statement sent to The News Today (TNT) made the assurance saying government soldiers are “always ready to protect the people against threats this Lenten Season.”
“The officers and members of the 301st Brigade join the people of Panay in commemorating the Lenten Season,” Colonel Gerardo Layug, Brigade Commander of the 301st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division said. “Your army is always vigilant in ensuring the safety and security of the community... the Local Communist Movement may take advantage of this solemn celebration to disrupt the peace which we are enjoying.”
Similar sentiments shared by Captain Lowen Gil Marquez, 3rd Civil Relations Group Commanding Officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“This appeal then to the Godless members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – National Democratic Front – New People's Army (CPP- NDF-NPA),” Captain Marquez began. “Respect the solemnity of this Lenten Season and do not take advantage of the situation. If you are really for the people as you all claim, then put a stop to the harassment, threats, intimidation, extortion and criminalities that you are doing. It is anti-people and anti-Christian.”
Meantime, it is a full alert for the police and the military in the duration of the Lenten break. With the influx of tourists both domestic and international, peace and order situation in tourist spots and Churches have been prioritized.
Both uniformed and plainclothesmen will be stationed in these areas to avert any untoward incidents.