PNP: More leftist leaders hiding in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Several leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) who are fugitives from justice are believed to be hiding in Metro Manila, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“Of course meron. Remember that Metro Manila is a wide area,” PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde told reporters on Tuesday.

Albayalde said Metro Manila is a viable place for leftist leaders to hide from the authorities.

He said the rebels include those who have standing warrants of arrest and those recuperating from injuries they suffered in encounters with government security forces in the mountains.

Albayalde did not give names, but said the rebels include ranking CPP officials.

“Malilikot ang mga iyan. They go from one place to another to evade arrest,” he said.

Among them is 60-year-old Esterlita Suaybaguio who was arrested at her safehouse in Escalades Condominium Tower 5 in Cubao, Quezon City on Monday.

Authorities said Suaybaguio is the CPP’s regional party secretary in Metro Manila, who allegedly led the recruitment of students for the communist movement.

Albayalde said they are monitoring the movements of these communist rebels, including couple Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, who were given temporary liberty in 2016 for the peace talks with the government.

President Duterte has ordered the couple’s arrest along with other rebel leaders after the peace negotiations bogged down.

Albayalde said they have no information if the Tiamzons are staying in Metro Manila.

“Kung minsan nasa ibang province sila based on our monitoring,” he said.