Ex-rebel surrenderer nabbed for illegal possession of firearms in Bataan

MANILA, Philippines — A former communist rebel, who had surrendered to the government before, was arrested by operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Bataan Provincial Police Office for illegal possession of firearms on Friday morning.

According to a report from the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3) CIDG, suspect Ronaldo Tangente was arrested in Barangay Liyang, Pilar town of Bataan after authorities implemented the search warrant issued by Executive Judge Marion Jacqueline Poblete of the Regional Trial Court of Bataan.

One .38 caliber revolver handgun with four live bullets, along with two spent .38 caliber cases and a rifle grenade were recovered from Tangente.

Police believe that Tangente is a former member of the New People’s Army, operating in the provinces of Bataan and Zambales. He surrendered to the government in 2009, before becoming a member of the “Limay Criminal Group,” which is believed to be engaged in gunrunning and gun-for-hire activities.

Tangente will face charges for violation of R.A. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Law and R.A. 9516 or the Illegal Possession of Explosive. /je