Capiz pols told: Don’t give in to rebels

By: Jomarie A. Billones ROXAS City — An Army officer urged candidates for the May 13, 2013 midterm election not to give in to the Permit to Campaign (PTC) demand of the New People’s Army (NPA). Lt. Col. Christopher Sab-it, 61st Infantry Battalion commander, cited some reasons why candidates should not agree with the demand of the rebels during Wednesday’s peace covenant signing here. “Rebels did not issue corresponding receipt after receiving money. They would split the campaign funds but there is assurance that the candidates would win the election,” Sabit said. He also appealed to the general public to be extra vigilant as the NPA exploits the political ambition of certain candidates by vigorously imposing the PTC scheme. “Giving in to NPA demands will only strengthen the communist group to continue conducting atrocities,” Sab-it added. The peace covenant signing initiated by the Capiz Police Provincial Office(CPPO) was held at the Roxas City Metropolitan Cathedral. It was attended by PNP regional director Agrimero Cruz and Capiz provincial election supervisor Elizabeth Doronilla. The activity is in line with the PNP’s Safe and Fair Election (SAFE) campaign in coordination with the Commission on Elections and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). The covenant was read by a police official in lieu of S/Supt. Domingo Cabillan who was in Manila for an important matter. It stipulates that candidates will condemn threats, intimidation, use of private armed groups, and other illegal activities to advance their political interests.