Peace talks have stalled between communist rebels and the government, and as of this day Sunday 11,19,17 President Rodrigo Duterte declares the New People's Army (NPA) as a terrorist group.
"I have be issued a proclamation to directive to remove them from the category of a legal entity or at least a semi-movement which would merit our attention, placing them pareho sa (the same as in) Amerika, terrorist," Duterte said...
The rebel group has been on the United States' terror list since 2002.
Duterte said he considers the communist rebels as criminals after the NPA killed a paramilitary member on November 15 in Negros Oriental. Three civilians - including a four-month-old baby - were also killed in an ambush in Bukidnon on November 9.
"We will file terrorist, murder lahat. Arson with murder. Lahat na. Because I consider them criminals already. Now, it's a great conspiracy between itong mga BAYAN pati — they are in conspiracy with the rebellion going on," Duterte said.
The President was referring to Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN), an alliance of left-wing organizations.
Under the Human Security Act of 2007, a person who is found guilty of the crime of terrorism shall suffer the penalty of 40 years of imprisonment, without parole.
This merits a heavier penalty compared to rebellion, which is punishable by reclusion perpetua, or 20 to 40 years of imprisonment, eligible for pardon after 30 years.
Terrorism under the law, includes rebellion, insurrection, murder, and arson, among others.
Duterte suspended the fifth round of peace talks with the communist rebels on May 27 after an increase in the group's offensive attacks throughout the country.
Sison fled to The Netherlands three decades ago to seek political asylum, after he was declared a terrorist by the U.S. Government.