In the past election season, the New People’s Army collected P26 million through extortion—a much lower amount than it expected (“NPA raised only P26M in poll campaign fees,” Page A10, 5/23/13). The military said the money came from candidates, groups and individuals in Metro Manila, Isabela, Masbate, Negros, Camarines Sur and Catanduanes.
The military also said the victims cannot entirely be blamed, after all they were threatened with violence and even death if they refused. Some victims are afraid to admit they gave some money or support as they very well know they could be criminally charged for helping the NPA.
If the NPA rebels really have the heart for Filipinos, they can donate part of their P26 million to hungry children and families who are living deep below the poverty line.
—M. ALLIRA,
a_allira@yahoo.com.ph