BALIK BUTUAN

CORDS X and PCOO secretary Martin Andanar assured the affected residents involved in the CPP-NPA's burning of houses and a chapel in Opol, Misamis Orientel that help will be provided to them.

"As the designated Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Northern Mindanao (CORDS X), we will help coordinate with the local government and the concerned government agencies to ensure that those affected are given the assistance that they need. We will also coordinate with the authorities in order to remain updated on the developments regarding the incident until the matter is resolved," the secretary said.

He also stated that the current administration will work hard and exhaust all means to punish those who committed the atrocity accordingly.

Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Northern Mindanao (CORDS X) and PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar released a statement on the burning of houses and a chapel in Opol, Misamis Oriental, a heinous act recently committed by the members of the New People's Army.

In his statement, the secretary expressed his denouncement on both the act and the terrorist group.

"To destroy the properties and place of worship and to possibly endanger the lives of innocent people are dastardly acts by themselves, but to commit them at a time when many of our countrymen are already reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic is extraordinarily callous and inhumane. It is disturbing and unforgivable that the CPP-NPA, which claims to champion the common people, are the ones who blatantly disregard and violate the human rights of the poor folk," the secretary said.

In both Senate health committee hearings held last May 26 and 28, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go urged the public to report anomalies and corruption-related acts to authorities, especially if in connection with the purchase or selling of medical supplies and equipment amid the country’s fight to control the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

Go has constantly vowed to crack down on any alleged anomaly, especially when it comes to purchases, selling or distribution of medical equipment and supplies.

He underscored the need for all government agencies involved in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic to account for every single peso spent from public funds. He also appealed to private individuals not to take advantage of the situation Filipinos are currently facing.

He urged Filipinos to report any anomalous activity being committed by public officials, private individuals, or companies.