Cordi top cop assures peace in region

CORDILLERA police maintained there is no reason for alarm following the arrest of suspected members of the New People’s Army last week.

“There is no reason to panic,” said Police Regional Office - Cordillera regional director C/Supt. Francis Elmo Sarona.

While the rebel groups have active movements in the area, Sarona said there are on-going operations being conducted and spearheaded by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“While the AFP are operating, the Philippine National Police is also implementing checkpoints,” he added.

However, Sarona reassured the public the AFP and the PNP are on top of the situation. “Just stay calm, while we have monitored NPA movement, this is being addressed by the AFP,” added Sarona.

Sarona said authorities have already filed cases of arson, robbery, and illegal possession of ammunition against the apprehended high ranking officials of the NPA who were tagged as suspects in the burning of two trucks owned by a mining firm in Itogon, Benguet .

The Benguet Provincial Police Office lead by provincial director S/Supt Florante Camuyot is continuously patrolling Mt. Ulap, Ampucao to provide security to residents, tourist and to increase community awareness on their safety against insurgencies.

Mt. Ulap remains close to tourist, according to the police.