• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
A self-confessed member of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the authorities in Negros Oriental on May 18 while a rebel wounded in a recent encounter in Cauayan, Negros Occidental is now in stable condition, government security forces reported.
In a statement, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) said the former rebel yielded a caliber .45 pistol with a magazine containing four rounds of ammunition.
A resident of Barangay Panciao, Manjuyod town, he returned to the fold of the law through the assistance of the 1st Maneuver Platoon of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company under the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Jason Jumawan, commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade, said the injured NPA member is now in stable condition after seeking military assistance for medical treatment.
Jumawan said alias “Johnrey” was abandoned by his fleeing comrades during the gunbattle in barangays Abaca and Poblacion.
The clash resulted in the deaths of five NPA members and the recovery of eight high-powered firearms, the Philippine Army said.
Following the surrender and the recovery operations, the PRO-NIR renewed its appeal to remaining members of communist-terrorist group to abandon the armed struggle, surrender their weapons, and return to the fold of the law.
It assured those who will surrender that the government remains committed to helping them rebuild their lives through various reintegration programs and assistance.
These programs include livelihood opportunities, skills training, financial assistance, and other interventions aimed at promoting stability, dignity, and a better future for them and their families. | GB
