PAGADIAN CITY – Over a dozen communist insurgents have surrendered in Zamboanga Sibugay province in southern Philippines, the military said Sunday.
It said 16 members of the New People’s Army and Militia ng Bayan pledged their allegiance and loyalty to the democratic government following a ceremony held Saturday at the headquarters of the 102nd Infantry Brigade under Col. Bagnus Gaerlan in the town of Imelda.
Capt. Clint Antipala, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division, said the surrender was facilitated by Mayor Jarvis Acosta, of Siay town; and Lt. Col. Jonathan Obena, commander of the 44th Infantry Battalion. He said the insurgents also handed over two shotguns and one pistol.
Antipala also released photos of the insurgents, but their faces were all covered to protect their identities.
“Their surrender will minimize the violent incident and atrocities in our area of responsibility and will weaken the mass base support of the communists,” Gaerlan said.
Those who surrendered are expected to receive government aid under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, the division commander, renewed his call for rebels to surrender peacefully and take advantage of the government amnesty program.
The rebels have been fighting for a separate state in the country. (Mindanao Examiner)
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