4 NPA rebs yield in South Cotabato

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Four New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents surrendered to the government security forces, while some civilians surrendered their unlicensed firearms to the soldiers in South Cotabato.

Lt. Col. Erwin E. Felongco, the commanding officer of the 38th Infantry Battalion (IB) said yesterday, four former NPA members decided to surrender and turned over their firearms to the soldiers of the 38th (IB) in Barangay Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato on Wednesday.

Aside from the four NPAs, civilians in Tupi town also surrendered 11 loose firearms that they had hidden in their homes.

These included one 7.62 M14 rifle, one M16 rifle, one M1D Garand Sniper Rifle, one Carbine, five Shotguns, one Uzi, one Cal. 22 rifle, two Cal. 38 revolver pistols, one pistol shotgun, one M14 Rifle, and assorted ammunition.

Felongco presented the four former rebels to Col. Ronel R. Manalo, commander of the 1st Mechanized Brigade, at the 38th IB headquarters.

The ceremony was attended by local officials by government and police officials, and village chiefs.

 The four former NPAs were immediately given cash assistance and food packs from DSWD Region XII and Local Government Units from the towns of Polomolok, Tantangan and Banga in South Cotabato.

“The success of our soldiers’ operations is not only in recovering weapons but also in giving those who have converted to a new life a chance to start a new life,” Manalo said.

For his part, Major Gen Donald M. Gumiran commander of 6th infantry Division, said that the success was a result of the unwavering dedication of our soldiers to conduct operations with the aim of providing security and peace to our communities.

“The demonstration of the former rebel’s willingness to change their lives proves our success not only in the fight against terrorism but also in extending peace and unity to all those who want to convert to the government.”

The division commander added that the soldiers’ mission will continue in partnership with our local governments and other sectors in promoting lasting peace and order in Mindanao.