36 former NPA Rebels Surrender In Bukidnon, yield 55 high-powered firearms

By Johnson B. Adviento

MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA)— Thirty-six (36) former leaders and combatants of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the 403rd Brigade of the Philippine Army, 4th Infantry Division, where they were presented to the officials of Bukidnon province during a ceremony on January 10 at Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City.

The surrenderers came from various Guerrilla Fronts and turned over 55 high-caliber firearms, including an M-60 machine gun, as a pledge to comply with the government’s laws.

Brigadier General Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 403rd Brigade, expressed gratitude to the 36 former rebels for their decision to return to the fold of the law. He stated that this surrender was an important step towards achieving peace and order in Northern Mindanao. "I would like to thank our soldiers, police, local government units, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens for participating in the ELCAC [End Local Communist Armed Conflict] campaign. This campaign involves municipal, provincial, and line agencies. They are helping us by providing support services such as livelihood assistance, skills training, and more, to address the insurgency problem in the country, particularly here in Bukidnon," said the Brigade Commander.

He also urged remaining members of the group to surrender and embrace peace. Furthermore, BGen. Anayron emphasized that the surrender of the 36 former NPA rebels showed the government’s commitment to ending the insurgency and promoting sustainable peace.

Arnel Arcaya, alias Sky, a former NPA leader, shared his experiences with the terrorist group and thanked the government for its efforts to assist him in reintegrating into society.

During the press conference, Arcaya stated that he chose to leave the terrorist group and start anew. He expressed great trust in the government to help them reintegrate into the community and support their transition to civilian life.

Currently, the military praised Cong. Jonathan Keith Flores of the 2nd Congressional District for his significant support, which has contributed to the continuous surrender of former leaders and members of the NPA.

Cong. Flores thanked the surrendering leaders and combatants of the NPA, as well as various government agencies, for their cooperation in addressing the insurgency problem.

"The presence of government agencies in the mountains and barangays, delivering essential services, has inspired many NPA rebels to return to society and live peaceful lives," said the congressman. (JBA/PIA 10-Bukidnon)