PIA Pangasinan
The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) has issued a warning to students and young people regarding deceptive recruitment tactics reportedly used by the New People’s Army. They stress the importance of vigilance and early reporting to help protect communities and ensure national security.
NICA Ilocos Regional Director Plormelinda Olet explained that recruiters often target vulnerable individuals, especially students facing personal, financial, or academic struggles.
“Recruiters usually approach targets in a friendly way and offer small favors to build trust,” Olet said. She added that these initial interactions often lead to ideological discussions, which aim to turn personal difficulties into resentment against the government.
Olet noted that after gaining trust, some recruits are invited to participate in activities, including “immersion” in mountainous areas, where they are pressured to either stay with armed groups or return to their communities to recruit others.
She urged young people to report suspicious encounters immediately to barangay officials, law enforcement, the military, or NICA. Early intervention can help prevent recruitment and save lives.
“Our youth can express themselves and contribute positively through sports, arts, education, and community activities—far from armed struggle,” Olet said during the Pantongtongan Tayo (Pag-usapan Natin) program of PIA Pangasinan.
She emphasized that protecting youth from radicalization is a collective responsibility involving families, schools, communities, and government agencies. Youth empowerment and increased awareness are vital to maintaining peace and development across the country.