5 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur
BUTUAN CITY, Sept 21– Five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) went back voluntarily to the folds of the government after realizing how tough and distressful the many struggles they had faced staying with the communist group.
The former rebels claimed that they were members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (Municipal Revolutionary Committee) established by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – NPA in the outlaying localities in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.
With the help of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, said former rebels had the better opportunity to return to the mainstream society. They were able to turn over to the government six M16 rifles, 22 magazines, five bandoliers and bullets in the presence of MGen. Benjamin Madrigal, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
When asked on how would they handle those former rebels who have pending cases, MGen. Madrigal bared that legal proceedings will continue to be carried out. “On the other hand, those who desire to join the army service must first qualify with the requirements and comply everything that is necessary,” said Madrigal.
As expressed by alias “Dodong,” they withdrew without letting anyone from their comrades know about the plan because they were tired of the illegal and criminal operations conducted by the NPA group.
Meanwhile, 402nd brigade commander Col. Isidro Purisima also expressed that they respected the order of ceasefire. “We are in support of peace talks because as Filipinos we are here to help our fellows to transform them from being unlawfully armed,” he added.
Col. Purisima said that their peace development operations had contributed in convincing the NPA members to surrender and start a new peaceful life.
The former insurgents will be given support through the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) as they go back to their respective communities. They will receive each a P15,000 immediate cash assistance and P50,000 livelihood aid. Another P5,000 will also be given from the office of the provincial governor of Surigao del Sur. (Venus L. Garcia/PIA-Caraga)
