Ranking NPA leader in Eastern Mindanao surrenders

NPA cadres display their tactics drill in an undisclosed place in the Cordillera. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – A ranking leader of the New People’s Army in Eastern Mindanao surrendered to government security forces in Compostela Valley on Wednesday, the military said.

Narciso Ruben, the Secretary of Guerilla Front 34- Southern Mindanao Regional Committee and also known as “Jason,” “Judy,” “Dodo,” yielded to authorities at the Army’s 10th Infantry Division in Mawab town, said Captain Raul Villegas, deputy spokesman of the 10ID.

He also turned over a .357 Magnum Smith and Wesson.

Quoting Narciso’s interview with the Army’s 25th Infantry Battalion, Villegas said that Narciso joined the NPA not only because of agitation by his recruiters about the lapses of the government but also of the promises for monetary support to his family and alleged alleviation from property.

Narciso joined the NPA in 1997, and held other positions including Team Leader of Medical Staff, Political Instructor of Pulang Bagani Command 5 until he became Front Secretary, which operates in the areas of ComVal on February 2012.

Data from the 10th ID showed that 123 NPA rebels returned to the government fold since January this year.