Borongan under threat
NPA reportedly planning attack
BORONGAN CITY — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating a text message circulating on social media about a supposed plan of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) to launch “a big attack” here.
A screen grab of the threat, which has already gained thousands of shares, was widely circulated in various Facebook groups of Eastern Samar communities.
It has caused alarm and anxiety on residents who are still reeling from the trauma caused by the rebels’ ambush during the Christmas season last year.
PNP Provincial Director Police Colonel Carlito Abriz said they already have a lead information as to the source of the text message and have likewise taken appropriate steps to address the matter.
He said the text message could be a prank but they are taking the matter seriously for it
can also be true or a diversionary tactic.
Abriz said the PNP and Philippine Army are always vigilant in providing the public a safe and secured place to live.
He said Eastern Samar province remains generally peaceful.
The PNP in the province has been on heightened alert since the December 2019 ambush that killed a policeman and four civilians, including one senior citizen who died on the spot.
Based on the screen grab of the text message, the sender, Marlon, is purportedly a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines–NPA.
Marlon warned that the communist rebels will launch a seige in Borongan City anytime soon with the same magnitude as that of the Marawi and Zamboanga City conflicts in recent years.
The text message advised residents to leave their houses to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
A military intelligence officer, however, said it is unlikely that the NPA can mount a large attack anywhere in Eastern Visayas due to its dwindling membership, especially in the last two years.