BUTUAN CITY – A high-ranking Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army leader in Bukidnon surrendered to the Army 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on Tuesday, May 7.
GOV (left), a high-ranking New People's Army leader, surrendered in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
Brig. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., commanding general of the 403rd Brigade, presented the surrenderer, alias Gov and Kap, to Army 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division chief Major Gen. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II in Malaybalay City on Wednesday, May 8.
Gov was the spokesperson, second deputy secretary, and finance officer of the regional staff of the CPP-NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
He was also one of the most wanted high-ranking NPA leaders facing murder, multiple frustrated murder, destructive arson, kidnapping, and serious illegal detention cases.
Gov turned himself in following a series of focused military operations, intelligence, and psychological operations conducted by soldiers. He yielded five M16 Armalite rifles, one M14 rifle, and bullets.
“The 403rd Brigade has ended the reign of terror of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating mainly in Bukidnon as this regional high-ranking CTG leader embraces the path to peace,” Anayron said.
“His decision to surrender also came in the wake of relentless military operations aimed at rooting out the remaining CPP-NPA terrorists in the area,” he said. “Extreme exhaustion, desire for safety, and the opportunity to reunite with their families have played a pivotal role in his decision,” Anayron added.
Cuerpo lauded Gov for heeding the government's call for peace and reconciliation.
“This will eventually lead to the surrender of the remaining demoralized members,” Cuerpo said. "This progress displays the end of terror of the CTG in Bukidnon and continue the opportunity for development and progress,” he said.
“Hopefully, this will leave a mark to the minds of the remaining personalities that it is not yet too late to return to the folds of the law and start a new life. Follow the footsteps of your former co members who are now enjoying the benefits provided for by the government. The downfall of the CTG in Bukidnon is inevitable and your only option is to embrace the path to peace and development."
Gov is processing his papers for enrollment in the government’s ECLIP program in which a rebel returnee can avail of cash assistance and livelihood support, Lt. Col. Francisco P. Garello Jr., chief of the 4th ID Public Affairs Office, said.