VIGAN CITY, June 17 (PIA) – The Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Ilocos Sur Information Center hold a virtual forum dubbed "Guarding the Youth: An Information Drive to Counter Communist CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front) Recruitment" on June 17.
 

At least 250 student journalists from the University of Northern Philippines, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, and North Luzon Philippines State College and some members and/or officials of Sangguniang Kabataan, along with information officers of various local government units and national government agencies in Ilocos Sur joined the webinar held via Zoom.
 

Provincial Director Randy dela Rosa of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Ilocos Sur discussed the Executive Order No. 70 specifically the mandates and accomplishments of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in the province.
 

“We need to guard our fellow youth from the infiltration of underground organizations. You should participate and involve yourself in different organizations but see to it that those [organizations] are not influenced by communist groups,” reminded the DILG Ilocos Sur director.
 

Meanwhile, Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz, chairperson of Sentrong Alyansa ng Mamamayan Para sa Bayan (SAMBAYANAN), discussed matters regarding CPP-NPA-NDF recruitment among the youth and shared his firsthand experiences as a then member of the communist group.
 

He stated, “We have to help the government establish counter organizations that will channel the energy, passion, and interest of the youth and students to be part of nation building.”
 

Both resource speakers reminded the youth leaders and student journalists of their role in supporting the government, and provided insights on how they can serve the people.
 
Moreover, Brigadier General Krishnamurti Mortela, commander of the 702nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army and Regional Director Jennilyne C. Role of the Philippine Information Agency-Regional Office I also shared their thoughts on the importance of such forum to inform and help save the youth from CPP-NPA recruitment. (JCR/AMB/ATV/PIA Ilocos Sur)