CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal — The Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division has raised concerns over the possible involvement of overseas-based activist groups in recruiting young Filipinos who later become linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
The issue surfaced following reports on Filipino-American activist Cristina Pasion, who is believed to have stayed with the armed group in the mountainous areas of Occidental Mindoro after a series of clashes with government forces earlier this year.
Military sources said Pasion had been associated with Migrante International, a global alliance of migrant organizations advocating for overseas Filipinos. Prior to her arrival in the Philippines, she was reportedly active in activist circles in the United States.
Authorities also noted a connection between Pasion and another Filipino-American, Chantal Anicoche, 24, who was rescued by government troops after an encounter with NPA fighters in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro on January 1, 2026. Anicoche was later assisted by authorities and safely returned to her family in Maryland, USA.
Government forces reported continued armed encounters with suspected NPA members in Barangay Monteclaro, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, including clashes on March 24 and 29. The March 29 firefight resulted in the death of Army officer Captain Dean Buen Oyando and injuries to two soldiers.
A female rebel identified as Charlize Garzon was captured during the incident and now faces criminal charges related to the encounter.
ia/xf
