Sipalay barangays declare CPP-NPA-NDF persona non grata –military

During an activity facilitated by the Philippine Army, the 17 barangays of Negros Occidental's Sipalay City passed a resolution declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front persona non grata in their areas.

According to a Saturday military statement, 145 barangay captains, barangay councilors, and SK chairmen participated in the activity.

Also during the activity, Army commanders reminded barangay officials of their duties and responsibilities to ensure the realization and operationalization of the barangay task force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

“Declaring the CPP-NPA-NDF as Persona-Non-Grata to the public is a bold move in eradicating and totally preventing CTG influence in the city," said 15th Infantry Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Cariño.

"It lifted our resolve and ensured everyone's commitment in fighting and ending the local communist armed conflict.”

Likewise, 302nd Brigade commander Colonel Leo Peña acknowledged the collaborative peace initiatives of all the barangay chiefs of Sipalay under the leadership of City Mayor Maria Gina M. Lizares – who was also the chairperson of the Sipalay City Task Force-ELCAC. — DVM, GMA News