Rebs yield Russian assault rifles for cash

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — New People’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in the hinterlands of Caraga region surrendered and yielded to Philippine Army troops

two high-powered assault rifles and three World War 2 vintage rifles in exchange for cash and livelihood assistance, military reports said.

Lt. Col. Jose Redentor Gilbuela, commander of the Philippine Army’s 26th battalion, in a report, said a regional NPA commander and four regular members from the Headquarters NPA Revolutionary command surrendered and turned over last week a Russian Made AK47 assault rifle, US Made Colt M653 Carbine Rifle, two World War II Garand rifles and one M1 Carbine rifle with live ammunition.

The AK-47 was the favorite weapon of Vietcong guerrillas during the Vietnam war while the Colt M653 also known as “Baby armalite” is a weapon used by US navy seal.

Under the government reconciliation program, the rebels are paid in cash for the fire arms they surrender depending on the condition. High-powered assault rifles are paid higher.

The rebels decided to come down from their mountain stronghold to avail of the reconciliation program of the government.

“The 26IB will do its best to assist and guide you in coordination with various government agencies to process your enrollment in the E-CLIP program and help you access the benefits designed to assist in your reintegration into society,” he stated.

The rebel returnees will undergo assessments and documentation for enrollment in the E-CLIP program, providing various forms of assistance to help them reintegrate into mainstream society and new productive life.