ILIGAN CITY – Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry S. Oaminal recently awarded P300,000 financial assistance each to eight members of the New People’s Army Guerrilla Front Sendong who surrendered to the 10th Infantry "Steady On" Battalion (IB).
EIGHT New People’s Army rebels receive P300,000 assistance each from Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal to help them rebuild their lives after their surrender. (Photo via Bonita Ermac)
The surrenderers – Tingan G. Jalalon, Jenela M. Minguay, Reneboy T. Anligue, Arminida O. Nabesis, Edmon Hapay, Roldan Langheras, Nida Dumaog, and Anisito Damason – turned themselves throughout the year with the latest this month.
Oaminal, chairperson of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), cited the importance of supporting these communist guerrillas in their transition to peaceful lives.
The surrenderers thanked governor and vowed their commitment to becoming productive members of society.
"Kami mapasalamaton kaayo sa kini nga suporta gikan sa gobyerno. Kini nga lihok makatabang kaayo kanamo sa pagtukod pag-usab sa among kinabuhi ug positibo nga kontribusyon sa among mga komunidad (We are immensely grateful for this support from the government. This gesture will greatly assist us in rebuilding our lives and contributing positively to our communities)," they said.
Oaminal commended the 10th IB led by Lt. Col. Jose Andre Monje for their dedication and sacrifices in ensuring peace and security in the province.
He said that the objective of dismantling the GF Sendong aligns with the province’s vision of attaining the 5Ms –Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon ug Malipayon.
Oaminal said its goal is not only to establish an insurgency-free province but also to create an environment where the people of Misamis can thrive and contribute positively to society.
Brig. Gen. Elmer B. Suderio, 102nd Brigade commander, thanked the governor for his unwavering support and assistance to the 10th IB.
Major Gen. Gabriel C. Viray II, Joint Task Force ZamPeLan commander, said that the endeavors and invaluable contributions of the governor have significantly bolstered their operations and morale. “His visionary leadership and proactive measures have been the bedrock of our success,” Viray added.