LUNA, Apayao – A member of the New People’s Army rebels surrendered to government troops here recently.
The returnee also surrendered a M653 carbine riffle, two magazines for short firearms and a magazine for long firearms, and a homemade bandolier and ammunitions.
He was listed in the Case Operation Plan (Coplan) “Kasanib” under the Personal Status Report of the Philippine Army with a warrant of arrest.
He was reportedly recruited to join the NPA at the age of 10 and operated in Cagayan and Apayao areas.
Military officials led by 5th Infantry Division Commander M/Gen. Pablo Lorenzo, 503rd Infantry Brigade Commander B/Gen. Henry Doyaoen, 502nd Infantry Brigade Commander B/Gen. Laurence Mina with Apayao officials led by Gov. Eleanor Bulut-Begtang, Rep. Elias Bulut Jr., and Apayao Police Provincial Office Director Col. Byron Tegui-in welcomed the surrenderee at the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in Payanan, San Gregorio here.
The rebel returnee thanked the Philippine Army officials for facilitating his surrender and is hoping to be accepted back in society through the support of the government and other sectors.
Lorenzo said the surrender was a result of the intensified campaign of the Philippine Army and the government to end local communist armed conflict with the whole-of-nation approach under Executive Order 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Begtang encouraged other members of the rebel groups to go back to mainstream society and take advantage of the government programs which could help them lead a normal and better life. – Redjie Cawis
April 20, 2024
