Marcos sees rebels routed in W. Visayas

President Ferdinand  Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed his confidence that Western Visayas will be free from communist insurgency given the rapidly decreasing number of communist rebels in the region.

“We must keep on going and we’ll wait for your invitation to come back when you declare this area insurgent-free… I think it’s achievable,” Marcos said in a briefing with security officers in Camp General Macario Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz.

President Marcos said he is satisfied with the accomplishments of the Philippine Army in sustaining peace efforts and weakening the presence of communist rebels in the region.

He stressed the need to ensure that the insurgent groups will no longer have the platform to finance their operations.

“I would [like to] congratulate you for the good progress that you’re making. Keep the pressure going… I know that the other units are also doing it in terms of financing. But perhaps, you could put more emphasis on that,” President Marcos told the troops.

According to Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division Commander, MGen Marion Sison, the rebels are taking advantage of minority groups, especially indigenous peoples.