NPA rebs demand SOMO in 4 provinces for captives’ release
By Edith Regalado The Philippine Star

DAVAO CITY, Philippines  – The New People’s Army (NPA) has set certain conditions in exchange for the freedom of captive Mayor Henry Dano of Lingig, Surigao del Sur and two soldiers who served as his escorts.

According to the local crisis management committee headed by Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel, the NPA rebels demanded a suspension of military operations (SOMO) not only in Surigao del Sur but also in Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Bukidnon so Dano and his two security aides could be released after over a month in captivity.

The insurgents reportedly placed Dano under investigation, and also probed Cpl. Alrey Villasis Desamparado and Pfc. Allan Pelino Saban for allegedly being part of intelligence operations against the NPA.

However, Lt. Gen. Arthur Tabaquero, chief of the Armed Forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), said it is impossible to meet the NPA demand as the military could not carry out a SOMO covering such a wide area.

“It is definitely impossible. Why should we stop our job as protector of our people just to give in to their demands?” Tabaquero said.

Read full article @ www.philstar.com

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