ILOILO City – A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the police on Saturday, March 9, after years of staying in the mountains.
Alias “Bert” or “Edmar” voluntarily surrendered to the San Remigio Municipal Police Station in San Remigio, Antique, with his homemade 12-gauge shotgun and an M203 40mm grenade.
The 30-year-old former rebel was the finance logistic officer of the SDG (Suyak) Platoon, Southern Front Committee-Komiteng Rehiyon Panay (non-PSR listed).
Bert is now under the custody of the San Remigio police and undergoing custodial debriefing, while the firearm and explosive he surrendered were turned over to the supply officer for proper disposition and documentation.
Police Colonel Leah Rose Peña, director of the Antique Police Provincial Office (APPO), Bert’s surrender was the result of the campaign against insurgency.
“We are calling other rebels to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s programs,” Peña said.
For his part, Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) director Brigadier General Jack Wanky appreciated Bert’s courageous decision.
“Alias “Bert’s” choice to renounce his ties with the communist group and to embrace peace demonstrates his commitment to a brighter future for himself and our society. His decision also reflects the success of our ongoing efforts in promoting peace and stability in our communities. Thank you for your continued support in our mission to combat insurgency and uphold the rule of law,” Wanky said./PN
