NATION
3 NPA members surrender
‘Our operations will always prioritize the protection of lives and communities.’
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Three New People’s Army (NPA) members who had been on the run in Northern Mindanao surrendered to troops of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division following the death of their leader, Julia Cagadas, alias “Rheda,” during a series of encounters in Barangay Bakingking, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, on 12 September.
The three fled the encounter site and later surrendered separately.
Claire Dalagon, alias “Cloud,” finance officer of Headquarters Force Neo of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion in the vicinity of Barangay Maningalao, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte, on 15 September.
William Boskada Manligayan, alias “Kevin,” a squad leader, and Allan Bakero Tahal, alias “Ading,” a regular member of the same group, surrendered to joint troops of the 23rd IB, 58th IB and intelligence units at the 23IB headquarters in Barangay Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, on 17 September.
Manligayan and Tahal also turned over an M16 rifle, magazine and ammunition.
Maj. Gen. Marion T. Angcao, commander of the 4ID, said the surrenders further demonstrate the diminishing capability of remnants of the NCMRC to sustain armed activities.
“The surrender of these remaining members is a clear indication that the armed group has lost its ability to sustain its operations and influence. More importantly, it shows that choosing peace remains a viable option for those who are willing to leave the armed struggle,” Angcao said.
He reiterated that the military’s primary objective is to protect communities and preserve gains in peace and security achieved through the collective efforts of government forces, local governments, communities and other stakeholders.
“Our operations will always prioritize the protection of lives and communities. We call on the remaining members of the NPA to make the wise decision to surrender peacefully rather than continue a path that only brings suffering to themselves, their families and the communities they came from,” he added.