BUTUAN CITY – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to the military in Barangay Puyat, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.
Army 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) Public Affairs Office (PAO) chief Lt. Col. Francisco P. Garello Jr. said that their surrender to the 36th Infantry Battallion is a significant step towards peace in the area.
They escaped from their unit on June 13 and surrendered due to battle fatigue and hunger, Garello added.
The surrenderers were identified as Ruru, Squad 2, Platoon 2 member; Ken, Platoon 1 medic, and Loloy, political guide, Squad 2, Platoon 2.
They were part of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG), Sub-Region Committee Westland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) and turned over one 7.62 mm M14 rifle, one KG 9 rifle, and bullets.
The surrenderers disclosed that one of their comrades, a member of regional headquarters (RHQ), NEMRC, was wounded in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur last April. However, he died and was buried in the barangay.
They were reassured humane treatment and comprehensive reintegration plans through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Lt. Col. Vincent M. Viray, commanding officer of the 36th IB, praised the communist rebels' decision.
“They made a wise decision to surrender, preventing the unfortunate and unnecessary loss of lives. This marks another step forward toward lasting peace and stability,” he said.
“The 36th Valor Battalion remains dedicated to fostering peace and reconciliation and encouraging other armed group members to reintegrate into mainstream society."
“I encourage the remaining NPA members to follow the decision of the three surrenderees and embrace the path of peace and reconciliation,” Viray said.