At least 21 former communist rebels in Sorsogon province voluntarily surrendered to the government during a ceremony on Thursday (October 27) at a military camp in Castilla town. (Photo by Michael B. Jaucian)
CASTILLA, Sorsogon — Twenty-one former members of a communist terrorist group in this province surrendered to government authorities at a military camp here on Thursday (October 27) morning.
Brig. Gen. Aldwine Almase, commander of the Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade, said the move would help the former rebels live as ordinary citizens.
Almase said the continuous combat operations of the military often lead to the death of rebels and confiscation of firearms, eventually weakening the terrorist groups and prompting some of the rebels to surrender.
“We are reminding and encouraging those who are still with the terrorist groups to surrender and end the conflict in a peaceful manner. The military is always ready to protect the community by curbing terrorism in the country, all for the glory of the Filipino people,” he stressed.
A 47-year-old former rebel, who joined the communist New People’s Army for two years, was emotional during her surrender.
“I am very happy to live as an ordinary citizen and be a part of society once again,” she said.
She also thanked the government for the livelihood programs readied for them.
The returnees received packs of rice and cash from the government troops.