FORMER members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) are now calling for the release of two personalities, Badoy and Celiz, whom they fought alongside in the battle against communist terrorist group (CTG).
That’s the cry of former members of CPP-NPA-NDF after one of their fellow rebel returnees was detained in the House of Representatives (HOR).
Jeffrey ‘Ka Eric’ Celiz was detained by the House Committee on Legislative Franchises after refusing to disclose the alleged P1.8-B travel expenses of the office of the speaker for this year.
According to rebel returnee Peter Mutoc, they are not enemies of the government and are questioned as to why they are now being targeted by the state.
“We are allies, not enemies! Why are you imprisoning us? Why are you succumbing to those three communists in Congress? They are pitting us against each other,” according to Peter Mutoc, Former CPP-NPA-NDF member.
Aside from Celiz, former NTF-ELCAC Spokesperson Lorraine Badoy was also cited in contempt at the Batasan Complex.
Both are hosts of the program “Laban Kasama ang Bayan” on SMNI, dedicated to information dissemination against CPP-NPA-NDF.
“We are not enemies. The House of Representatives is not our enemy. What we are doing is advocating for democracy. Release Ka Eric and Dr. Lorraine,” Mutoc added.
Mutoc emphasizes that it’s painful for them, returnees, to be oppressed by the government they are currently helping.
“This will escalate to Manila, maybe even reach Malacañang! If you don’t decide, will it be a Christmas showdown? This is not a contest of egos. Let’s not be embarrassed here,” Mutoc stated.
According to Congressman Gus Tambunting, Chairman of the Legislative Franchise Panel, Ka Eric revealed to him the source of information in the Senate.
He plans to discuss the issue with the House Speaker and Senate president, continuing the verification process.
In the end, the former cadre hopes that their return will not be in vain.
Despite their past mistakes in the movement, they now aspire to help end the country’s insurgency issues.
“The surrender of Ka Eric is a significant step for the youth to believe they no longer need to join the CPP-NPA. What will you do next? After helping the government?” Mutoc said.
