Duterte wants in-depth probe on Sagay slays, forms nat'l task force vs. armed conflict

President Rodrigo Duterte has called for an in-depth probe on the slay of nine farmers in Sagay City in Negros Occidental, Malacañang said on Thursday.

According to Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo, the president convened the Executive Committee of the National Security Council (EC-NSC) on Tuesday in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu that reviewed and discussed issues and concerns which disturb our national security.

Panelo said among the matters discussed were the "recent anarchical activities" of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army- National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF).

The President also ordered the Department of Justice (DOJ) to pursue the proscription case against the CPP/NPA/NDF as a terrorist organization.

Duterte also called for a probe into the killing of nine farmers in Sagay, Negros Occidental last October 20. The farmers, including two minors, were reportedly members of the Negros Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW).

"The President also directed that an in-depth investigation be undertaken anent the shooting incident in Sagay which resulted in the deaths of nine farmers," Panelo said.

The President also announced the creation of the "National Task Force" in order to "address the armed conflict occasioned by the local communists."

This came as the Philippine National Police (PNP) and communists issued different statements over who was to blame for the deadly gun attack last October 20.

"The President was unwavering with regard to the issue as a result of the communist group's efforts in infiltrating and overthrowing the government," Panelo said. — BAP, GMA News