GOVERNMENT FORCES are maintaining a high alert status against the New People’s Army (NPA), particularly for possible major attacks, as the communist movement in the Philippines marks its 50th anniversary on Dec. 26. Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff Benjamin R. Madrigal, Jr. said the recent attack on a police station in Magallanes, Sorsogon could be linked to the anniversary, but he tagged this incident as just a “nuisance harassment.” Three cops and a civilian were wounded in the attack. “What we are watching out for are the potential diversionary operations or decisive attacks,” Mr. Mardrigal said in message to reporters on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Director General Oscar D. Albayalde said the police have orders to “be always alert and vigilant,” especially in light of the upcoming communist anniversary. The Communist Part of the Philippines, to which the NPA is allied, said in a statement last Dec. 14 that they will celebrate their “victories” through rallies and mass gatherings. — Vince Angelo C. Ferreras

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR