Family of rebels surrenders to authorities in Isabela

In this photo handout from the military, a 40-year-old rebel cadre, his wife, and their son show the firearms they turned over to the authorities after they surrendered to the Army on Tuesday, March 29. | PHOTO: 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army

GAMU, Isabela––A 40-year-old rebel cadre, his wife, and their son surrendered Tuesday to the military in Ilagan City, Isabela province, authorities said Wednesday, March 30.

The military identified them as Ka Alpha; his wife, alias Teresa, 35; and their son, Rikson, 18. They belonged to the Section Guerilla Unit (SGU) of Komiteng Probinsya Isabela, Komiteng Rehiyon-Cagayan Valley.

In a report, the Army said the three from San Mariano town turned over three M-16 Armalite rifles, three magazines, and 23 pieces of rifle bullets.

The three joined the rebel movement in February 2016 after being recruited by Alias Davao, SGU squad leader.

They said they were promised to “live a comfortable life” but ended up experiencing difficulties as they had to deal with constant walking without food and water.

Brig. Gen. Danilo Benavides, 502nd Infantry Brigade commander, said, “The greatest decision to save a family from danger is to stay away from the communist rebels.”

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