PRESS RELEASE
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines

NPA actions are within bounds of self-defense—CPP
August 18, 2002

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today said that any action taken by the NPA against attacking US troops and local military forces would fall within the bounds of self-defense. In a statement, CPP spokesperson Gregorio “Ka Roger” Rosal said that such actions were necessary to protect the “gains of the people in the territories of the People’s Democratic Government achieved in the course of waging revolution”.

Rosal, however, clarified that in carrying out such measures, the NPA will ensure the safety and welfare of civilians, whether they be Filipinos or foreign nationals. He also said that defensive action would be taken only in the face of armed provocations from American troops entering CPP-controlled and influenced areas.

Rosal stressed that should US troops enter guerrilla zones and bases, the people themselves would be playing a major role in waging such defensive actions to protect their “hard-won gains achieved through the help of the revolutionary movement”.

He cited such gains as lower land rent and interest rates on loans, higher wages for farm workers and higher prices for farmers’ produce. He added that usury and land rent have even been totally wiped out in some areas and that workers in businesses within guerrilla zones and base areas enjoy higher wages and better working conditions because of the revolution’s efforts.

Rosal also cited such gains to refute claims from National Security Adviser Roilo Golez that it was the NPA’s presence that exacerbated poverty in the rural areas.

Rosal acknowledged that the CPP would be up against a “strong and powerful enemy” once US troops enter guerrilla zones. But he added that the revolutionary forces and the people had the “courage and determination” to fight even the world’s mightiest superpower. Rosal expressed confidence that the revolutionary forces would be able to tap into a “broad arsenal” of weapons and methods and had “numerous options to choose from” in waging resistance.

Reference:
Anne Buenaventura
Media Officer
Cellphone Number: +63910-240-3553



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