The New People's Army (NPA) has allegedly upgraded their tax campaign by promising political candidates victory in the May 13, 2013 elections through the Permit to Sure Win (PTSW) drive, according to Col. Arnold Quiapo, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA) based in Dingle, Iloilo.

Quiapo said the PTSW allegedly requires a higher fee compared to their Permit to Campaign (PTC) and Permit to Win (PTW).

He said they have received four complaints from politicians in the northern part of Iloilo but these are subject for verification.

Quiapo said they have advised politicians to not tolerate this illegal activity because "it will just stop in due time."

He also assured that the Army is on top of the situation with the implementation of their Safe and Fair Election (SAFE) campaign.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police is now reviewing 75 areas in Iloilo which are considered as election "areas of concern."

Quiapo said the PNP has enough personnel that can handle these areas, but if Army personnel are needed, they are ready to respond.

"Mga Ilonggos naman ay hindi masyadong masasama so there is no need for additional force coming from us," he said during yesterday's visit at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol with Rear Admiral Jose Luis Alano, commander, Philippine Fleet of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Alano was here to check if all their personnel are in place and to check on the region's peace and order.

He is going to Negros Occidental today for the same purpose.*