Lorenzana on NPA anniversary: More than 50 years of terrorism is enough

Defense Chief Delfin Lorenzana on Monday called for the end of years of "terrorism and destruction" as the New People's Army (NPA) marked its 52nd founding anniversary.

"Indeed, we have much more to gain in seeking to build than to destroy. More than 50 years of terrorism and destruction is enough. A different road leading to peace and nation-building is already laid in front of us. This is what we all long for and the future generations of Filipinos deserve," Lorenzana said in a statement.

Lorenzana said the armed group of communist rebels "took pride in burning properties, spreading lies, and sowing violence."

"Regarding themselves above the laws of the land, the NPA continuously and without remorse committed murder and other crimes. The blood of thousands are on their hands," the defense chief said.

Lorenzana also reiterated his vow that there will be no let up in their operations against the NPA rebels.

"This communist terrorist group should know that we are not going to leave any stone unturned to finally end the atrocities they commit against the Filipino people. We will not falter in our mission," the defense chief said.

"If the people have not heeded their call for a so-called revolution after all these years, the members of the NPA should realize that it is high time for them to lay down their arms," he added.

Lorenzana, nonetheless, said the military welcomes rebel returnees, hoping that more communist rebels would surrender to the government.

"Tinatanggap natin ang ating mga kababayan na nais nang magbalik-loob. Nawa'y mas marami pa sa inyong hanay ang magpasya na talikuran na ang marahas na landas na tinatahak ng NPA," he said.

(We are accepting rebel returnees. I hope more communist rebels would decide to end their relations with NPA.)

In December last year, Lorenzana said military forces will be more vigilant against possible assault from communist rebels. 

President Rodrigo Duterte has ended peace negotiations with the communist groups, saying that there will be no more ceasefire with the NPA until the end of his term. — Consuelo Marquez/BM, GMA News