Reclaiming Peace: Former Rebels Unite Against CPP Influence through People’s Organizations

October 02, 2024

In the country, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has long exerted influence over various sectors. In response, former rebels are mobilizing to counter this influence through the establishment of people’s organizations (POs), aiming to promote peace and development. People’s organizations serve as grassroots movements that empower communities, promote social justice, and provide support for former rebels transitioning back to civilian life.”

Ivylyn Corpin, a former secretary of the East Front Committee, Henry Abraham Command, now plays a pivotal role in uniting former rebels against the CPP.

She said that the former rebels (FRs) are focused on consolidating their network to ensure a unified approach and program. This strategy aims to prevent the CPP from gaining political power or influencing government policies.

“We are committed to building a strong network of people's organizations to counter the CPP's influence,” said Corpin during a recent press conference that also unveiled their declaration denouncing the armed struggle.

“We believe that by working together, we can prevent the CPP from gaining power and protect our country from their violent tactics and attempts to disrupt peace and development,” she stated.

Corpin explained that POs are crucial because they serve as the foundation for former combatants to identify their support base and establish command posts. The POs already set up in various regions play a significant role in this effort.

“It is crucial to address the mass base. How can we stop them from gaining influence there? We need to reclaim that mass base through our organizing efforts. We also need to cut off their alliances with potential politicians who might be used for their recovery and strengthening," she said.

This consolidation of FRs, according to her, will enable them to have a unified direction or program. “We will decide what to fight for and what we won't allow, including preventing them from taking positions in the government.”

Noel Legaspi, a former CPP/NPA leader with deep knowledge of the group's inner workings, believes the government's campaign is effectively exposing the CPP-NPA's political manipulation tactics, ultimately weakening the terrorist group.

"Mulat na rin ang masa. Kaya yung mga mamamayang Pilipino, na kahit yung mga dati stronghold nila ay alam na rin ang mga taktika nila. Kaya yung taong yun or komunidad na yun ay hindi rin boboto sa kanila kung may dadalhin man sila sa lokal o national," he added.

On the issue of alliances, Legaspi said that the CPP might also face difficulties because alliances are based on strength, and they no longer have that kind of powerful force.

However, he cautioned that there are still some remaining, and those left behind still have weapons. "It is a last breath, so to speak, but they still have some strength. So, they might still threaten politicians with that or use the alliance to recover mass bases na naiwan o napalayas sila.”

As the nation moves forward, it is essential for citizens to support initiatives led by former rebels and to engage in efforts that promote peace and unity in their communities.

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NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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