BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA
Nineteen insurgents from the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to government authorities in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.
According to the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), the former rebels were part of the South Western Front Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, in Siquijor.
They served different roles within the group such as medical officers, propaganda units, and squad leaders.
Several are also noted to have been active in extortion activities, serving messengers or as collectors of “revolutionary tax.”
NOCPPO spokesperson, Police Lt. Abegael Donasco, along with officials from the Kabankalan City Police Statrion, 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the 94th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army facilitated the surrender of the insurgents.
Donasco said the rebels decided to surrender after realizing they had no future in the movement.
They also surrendered due to negotiations by authorities with the support of the Barangay Intelligence Networks.
The former rebels are expected to receive assistance through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program./PN
