[Inquirer] U.S. troops are now training members of the elite Special Action Force of the Philippine National Police on combat tactics. Chief Supt. Randolf Delfin said the 45-day training program would equip SAF members with more skills "in our fight against insurgency and terrorism."Delfin's statements drew angry reactions from the left saying the police officer confirmed what they had long held — American government involvement in Philippine counterinsurgency operations.
Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said, "We condemn this continuing US interventionist policy."
He said US military operations in the Philippines, "like this one disguised as a supposed training, are in fact among the causes of rebellion" by past and present-day revolutionaries.
Kim Gargar, spokesperson of environmentalist group Panalipdan, said the use of US troops to train policemen against insurgents is "pure and simple foreign military intervention."
"By allowing this, the Aquino government is guilty of violating the Constitution," Gargar said.
Supt. Reynard Arino said at least 60 SAF men would participate in the training program with courses on marksmanship and small unit tactics.
Last month, US soldiers also started training SAF men on tactical combat care or life-saving support, according to Chief Supt. Miguel Antonio Jr., head of the Western Mindanao police.