MANILA, Philippines - Communist rebels have assured the public that they would not pose a threat to the visit of Pope Francis next month.
In a statement, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) refuted the military’s claim that they could potentially sow disorder during the papal visit.
“The Communist Party of the Philippines categorically denies the preposterous claims made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines that the New People’s Army (NPA) poses a threat to the security of Pope Francis,” read the statement.
The CPP said the military’s statements are meant to justify the deployment of large number of troops and the imposition of repressive policies against the people, especially in Samar and Leyte.
“Together with the rest of the Filipino people, the CPP, the NPA and all revolutionary forces look forward to Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines,” read the statement.