By Freddie Lazaro
CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Isabela – A leader of the New People's Army (NPA) operating in Isabela province surrendered to government forces in Soyung village, Echague, Isabela on Monday, according to Brigadier General Laurence Mina, commander of the army’s 502nd Infantry Brigade under the 5th Infantry Division.
New People's Army (MANILA BULLETIN)
Mina identified the NPA leader as "Ka Marlboro." He declined to give his real name for security reasons. The others were identified as the squad leader of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya-Central Front operating in the towns of San Mariano, San Guillermo, Echague, Jones and San Agustin, all in Isabela province.
Mina said that Ka Marlboro turned over two M-16 Armalite rifles, eight magazines with 230 bullets, and other explosives.
Ka Marlboro reportedly told him that he surrendered because of the hard life in the mountains.
Mina said that they are now working for the benefits that Ka Marlboro under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.