SURIGAO CITY (MindaNews / 22 Jan) – A member of New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the town of Alegria in Surigao del Norte has returned to the fold of the law.
Armed with an AK-47 rifle, magazine and several ammunition, “Ka Jun,” a resident of Barangay Budlingin of the said town, went to the authorities last Sunday morning.
“He is an active NPA supporter before and because of his enthusiasm, the NPAs issued him an AK-47 rifle and was tasked to spy on our government forces to conduct sniping, harassment and other tactical offensives in the said barangay,” said 2Lt Jonel Castillo, spokesperson of the 30th Infantry Battalion.
Castillo also said that members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) are armed NPA supporters living in the community utilized by the NPA as informants and assist in the conduct of their activities against government forces.
Lt. Col. Allen Tomas, 30IB commander, said that Barangay Budlingin had become an NPA stronghold, although lately the people have realized how the rebels destroy their lives.
“It is through our convergence efforts in establishing peace with the community that supporters find their way back to our government.
This is a clear manifestation that Surigaonons want nothing but peace,” he added.
“We call on our NPA brothers to give up your armed struggle. Come down, bring your firearms and embrace a peaceful life with your families and with the government,” he added.
The militiaman is now in the custody of the 30IB for proper disposition and turnover to the local government unit. (Roel N. Catoto / MindaNews)
