Taking custody of minors against the will of their parents is a violation of the Anti-Kidnapping Law, Col. Romeo Baleros, Negros Occidental police director, said. Fourteen minors were rescued during simultaneous raids on the offices of militant groups last week. They are said to be members of a cultural dance group who perform when militant organizations hold protest actions. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, appealed to the public not to trust militant organizations, saying many had been victimized by their lies and deceptions. Arevalo said militant groups are recruiting children to train them to become New People’s Army fighters.

Source: Philippine Star November 13, 2019 16:00 UTC