Here-and-now concern

Published by the Visayan Daily Star Publications, Inc.

NINFA R. LEONARDIA Editor-in-Chief & President

CARLA P. GOMEZ Editor GUILLERMO TEJIDA III Desk Editor NANETTE L. GUADALQUIVER Busines Editor ERIC T. LORETIZO Sports Editor (On Leave) RENE GENOVE Bureau Chief, Dumaguete MAJA P. DELY Advertising Coordinator

CARLOS ANTONIO L. LEONARDIA Administrative Officer

The attack by the rebels of a CAFGU detachment in Barangay Villegas, Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, reminds us that the insurgency problem in Negros Island has remained a here-and-now concern.

The number of fatalities - 10 alleged rebels and a CAFGU operative - apparently the highest in insurgency-related clashes in recent memory, leads us to believe that the intensity of the commitment of insurgents in overpowering the government forces and toppling the present dispensation has remained high as ever. The situation reminds us, too, of the struggles of the underground movement a decade or so ago that has made Negros restive and volatile amid a grave socio-economic problem. Such concern on the peace situation in the province remains a priority matter, considering that a number of similar clashes have been recorded in the island in the past few months.

While the communist rebellion movement was eventually quelled with successes scored by government troops, the current situation, however, appears that the Negros situation is getting to be ripe once more for the growth of the rebels' cause. The present socio-economic problems of the country plus the nagging political pressures that challenge the administration provide a conducive scenario for the growth of discontent and a possible increase in recruitment of rebel forces as it was at the height of the sugar crises and severe economic dislocation two decades ago.

The challenge is incumbent upon present police and military officials to sustain order in communities - both in urban centers and countryside - to ensure that the normal flow of activities in towns and cities is not jeopardized by stirrings caused by a feeling of helplessness and discontent among the people of Negros.

The task, however, must not be left to the ranks of the police and the military. Civilian officials know that their roles are just as crucial in the sustenance of peace in their respective localities to ensure that community growth is not endangered or stalled by forces that disrupt order. Much of the challenge, too, is faced by the people, who are expected to do their part as the pillars of peace in the country.

Insurgency as a here-and-now reality reminds us of the continuing battle to win the people's hearts and minds. Unless an atmosphere of security, growth and socio-economic stability is ensured, the situation will remain volatile for the forces of discontent to prosper.*