Alleged ex-NPA tags Manuel as rebel ‘recruiter’

Arian Jane Ramos, who claims to be a former CPP-NPA combatant, categorically identified Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel as having helped recruit students for the rebel New People's Army during the Senate panel inquiry looking into the radicalization and recruitment of youth to armed revolution on Wednesday.

Ramos claimed she facilitated the revolutionary integration of members of the Communist Party of the Philippines from the youth and student sector, including Raoul Manuel, Daniel Dellosa, Kurt Sosa, Angelie Fortich and others, within their area of responsibility in Barangay Dagohoy, Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

Her revelation was backed up by Kate Roca, who also claims to be an ex-CPP-NPA cadre. Raca said she was able to work directly with Manuel in the recruitment for Kabataang Makabayan and for the CPP within the University of the Philippines.

"In addition, Sir, I was able to work with Raoul Manuel when he was still a UP student regent. Kasama ko siya recruiting for KM and the CPP and we facilitated the NPA recruitment as well in the University of the Philippines. I am sure he will deny this — my good old friend Raoul Manuel and workmate," Raca said.