56 former NPA rebels surrender to AFP in Tacloban
TACLOBAN CITY — At least 56 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the military here on Wednesday (March 29).
Brigadier Gen. Noel Vestuir, the brigade commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade based in Ormoc City, said the withdrawal of support and condemnation from the communist group was a sincere manifestation of their commitment to end the local communist armed conflict.
“I expressed my deep appreciation for the courage shown by the former rebels and mass supporters in openly condemning the CPP-NPA-NDF’s 54-years of terrorism that caused prolonged sufferings and destruction of life and properties of our people,” Vestuir said.
The military official then called on the remaining rebels and their supporters to return to the folds of the law and enjoy the programs and benefits from the government.
“You better avail the benefits of the government’s Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), and live a peaceful and decent lives with your families and loved ones,” Vestuir said.
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