Complaints were aired anew over the carrying of firearms by members of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade in populated areas, especially in the towns of Cauayan and Candoni, the military said.

Lt. Col. Norman Flores, 61st Infantry Battalion commander, yesterday said armed RPA-ABB members were seen roaming around in populated areas, claiming control of some barangays in Candoni and Cauayan.

The RPA-ABB entered into peace talks with the government in year 2000.

This could form part of the strategy of some RPA leaders to build up their logistical requirements, by projecting to politicians that they have controlled areas, Flores said.

Contrary to reports, RPA-ABB spokesman Victorino Sumulong said they will not campaign for any candidate or party-list groups.

Flores said there is a standing order for them to arrest any person, even if they are RPA-ABB members, if they insist on carrying firearms without any authorization from the Comelec during the election period.

Last month, the police arrested a member of the RPA-ABB for having in his possession an unlicensed firearm and for violation of the Comelec gun ban in Candoni

Flores advised armed RPA-ABB members to stay away from the populated areas if they will insist of carrying their firearms, If not, they should restrict themselves within their so-called areas, he added.

RPA-ABB members were also accused by militant groups of harassing party-list groups Bayan Muna and Anakpawis, in connivance with the military, which they vehemently denied.*GPB

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