BUTUAN CITY – Three New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to the military in Agusan del Norte on Saturday, July 6.
Capt. Jade Bryce Bune, civil-military operations officer of the 29th Infantry Battalion, identified the surrenderers as aliases Agila, Jen, and Maxx.
The surrenderers who turned over guns and bullets were from the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad Westland of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
“Lack of food, loss of leadership, and fear are the primary reasons that they have decided to return to the folds of the law in order to begin a new and peaceful life together with their respective families in the mainstream society,” 29th IB commanding officer Lt. Col. Cresencio C. Gargar said.
The 29th IB welcomed the rebel returnees.
“As the communist terrorist group struggles to maintain its organizational coherence, the 29th IB will continue to intensify efforts in defeating the few remaining members of this criminal group,” Gargar said.
“Through the peace-building mechanisms, the 29th IB aims to contribute significantly in creating Agusan del Norte an environment conducive to peace and sustainable development.”
"The gate of 29th IB is always welcome to all the remaining Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) who are only victims, those who want to surrender and return to the fold of the law like these rebel returnees. The 29th IB will help you through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Programs (ECLIP) of the government," Gargar said.