ILOILO – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) on Saturday at Camp Monteclaro, Barangay Igtuba, Miag-ao town.
“They endured hunger, extreme fatigue, and the constant fear of untimely death, as government forces conducted combat operations in their area,” said Lieutenant Colonel Arturo Balgos Jr., the 61IB commander.
Known by their aliases “Honda” (vice squad leader of Squad SM), “Ateng” (squad leader of Squad Robinson) and “Pielte” (political guide of Squad Robinson), the rebels were part of the Puregold (SYP) Platoon, Southern Panay Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.
They decided to renounce the armed struggle following persistent outreach by their families and relatives, said Balgos.
The rebels expressed their desire to rejoin mainstream society due to the harsh and desperate conditions within the NPA.
Their surrender marked a significant relief and a step towards the life they yearned for, said Balgos.
The voluntary surrender was facilitated by the collaborative efforts of the 61IB’s Local Peace Engagement (LPE) team and the local government unit (LGU) of Tubungan town led by Mayor Roquito Tacsagon.
Major General Marion Sison, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), praised the cooperation between the 61IB and the LGU of Tubungan in aiding the surrender of the rebels.
“For those still caught in the rebels’ deceptive web, be aware that opportunities for reconciliation are available. We are prepared to support your transition to a peaceful, new life through initiatives like the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. It is never too late to choose peace and reunite with your families,” said Sison./PN
