Cagayan de Oro City—Five members of the New People's Army have surrendered over the weekend at Brgy. St. Christine in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.
The rebels, who were members of the NPA’s Municipal Revolutionary Committee, turned over six M-16 rifles.
“To the five former NPAs, thank you for finally giving peace a chance. We are happy that all of you will finally enjoy living a peaceful life with your families. We will facilitate all the support that shall be given to you to help you reintegrate in your respective communities,” said Lt. Col. Harold Akaz, commanding officer of the 75th Infantry Battalion.
The five returnees will be given support from the Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the provincial government of Surigao del Sur to help them start a new life.
For his part, 4th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said the rebels have responded to the call of President Rodrigo Duterte for national healing as the government pursues peace talks with the communists.
“We in the Armed Forces are truly grateful to your decision in giving what is best for our country—the dream of achieving lasting peace that every Filipinos deserve. We welcome those who may wish or decide to immediately experience peace and be with their families,” Madrigal added.