TARLAC -- Farmers in this province including former members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and of SAMAKABA Inc., held simultaneous peace rallies against the Communist Party of the Philippines' founding anniversary on Monday, Dec. 26.
The farmer’s group Malaya gathered in front of the Department of Agrarian Reform Office in Barangay Matatalaib, Tarlac City, while the SAMAKABA assembled in Brgy Atilano Ricardo, Bagac Bataan, and marched toward Friendship Tower along Bagac Morong Highway.
The peace rallies with the theme ‘Panawagan ng Pagkakaisa Laban sa Terorismo para sa Pangmatagalang Kapayapaan’ were held to send a message of peace to the CTG.
The rallies were also meant to encourage the rebels to return to the folds of the law.
During the activity, the groups renewed their commitment to peace as they pledged once again to help end the insurgency.
Doves were released to symbolize peace, unity, and freedom from the CTG.
The peace rallies were attended by representatives from various government agencies.
Meanwhile, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Region 3, considered the death of the CPP’s founder as another indication that lasting peace is within reach.
"Our fight against insurgency is almost over, and this is a victory for the Filipino people," said Bernadette Bersamin, Assistant Regional Director, NICA 3.
“But what is certain is that the government's commitment to assisting our countrymen is not over," she added.
On behalf of the Northern Luzon Command, Lt. Col. Jeszer M Bautista, Commanding Officer of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, expressed gratitude for the cooperation and unity shown by these organizations.
He said that in the coming year, these organizations that were once deceived by the CTG will be successful and will be able to tell their stories and testify to the government's programs.
(Liezle Basa Inigo)