ILOILO City – A ranking commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay Island, wounded in a recent clash with government forces in Tapaz, Capiz, has surrendered to the Philippine Army and is now receiving hospital treatment.
Alias “Mego”, 31, a native of Igbaras, Iloilo and commanding officer of NPA Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay’s Regional Headquarters, yielded to the 301st Infantry Brigade on September 26 in Barangay Lagdungan, Tapaz after sustaining a gunshot wound in his left foot during an encounter in Barangay Katipunan.
Brigadier General Nhel Richard Patricio, commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade, underscored the humane approach of soldiers in dealing with surrendering rebels.
“We help the wounded not as proof that soldiers are committed not to harm, but to help those who decide to surface, a human being who needs treatment,” Patricio said.
He emphasized that the military campaign is not limited to combat.
“Towards peace, healing, and reconciliation the returnees like alias ‘Mego’ will be provided with assistance and full access to government reintegration programs,” he added.
The recent series of clashes in Tapaz between Army forces and NPA remnants resulted in the neutralization of three rebels.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, lauded Mego’s decision to give up the armed struggle.
“This is the best decision alias Mego has made, not only for himself, but for his family who longs for his love and care. The government is more than willing to help and provide proper medical treatment to those who go back to mainstream society,” Samson said.
He further appealed to other insurgents to follow suit: “I call on the remaining members of the rebels, especially those who are wounded, to do the same. Heal not only your physical wounds, but also the deeper wounds inflicted by years of suffering in the armed struggle, the misery of life inside the group, and the pain you’ve caused your families.”/PN
