Davao City First District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has called on victims of drug addicts and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to come forward and speak up.

In a statement, Duterte said it is time for victims to expose the abuses and deceptions of criminals and the rebel group that continue to harm communities across the country.

“Panahon na para hindi na kayo manahimik. Panahon na para mailantad ang tunay na kalupitan at panlilinlang ng mga kriminal at rebeldeng grupo na patuloy na sumisira sa ating lipunan,” Duterte said.

Duterte described the NPA as a terrorist organization and should not be regarded as victims as they allegedly instill fear and extort from communities instead of fighting for peace.

“Ang NPA ay isang teroristang organisasyon. Hindi sila mga biktima. Sila ang dahilan kung bakit libo-libong Pilipino—mga sundalo, pulis, guro, magsasaka, kabataan—ang nawalan ng buhay, tahanan, at kinabukasan,” Duterte added.

The lawmaker said that the fight against illegal drugs and the NPA is a fight for the future of Filipino children and the nation’s security.

In line with the stance of his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, the congressman urged all Filipinos who have suffered under the hands of the NPA and drug users to speak out.

“Ang inyong mga kwento ay mahalaga. Kayo ang tunay na boses ng bayan. Huwag nating hayaang baluktutin ng mga terorista ang katotohanan,” the congressman said.

He assured that those who come forward will be heard, protected, and supported, as the country continues its struggle to become free from drugs, fear, and terrorism.

“Makakaasa kayong kami ay handang makinig, magprotekta, at kumilos. Sama-sama nating ipaglaban ang isang Pilipinas na malaya sa droga, takot, at terorismo,” he added.