Capitol open to accepting returnees

Cebu province was declared “insurgency-free” in March last year but Gov. Gwen Garcia said the Capitol is still willing to help rebel returnees start a new life.

Garcia told reporters   she is willing to  discuss  with the 78th Infantry Battalion and the local anti-insurgency task force to draft a policy on accepting rebel returnees outside of the province who want to settle in Cebu.

“We are helping provincial inmates in their rehabilitation, how much more the rebel returnees?” Garcia said.  Last month, the 78th IB turned over to Tuburan town a rebel returnee who used to operate in Davao City.  Dennis dela Cerna Bacerna, 21, formerly known as Kumander Orig and James, was  turned over to Tuburan Mayor Democrito Diamante.  Bacerna was convinced by his relatives in  Tuburan to turn himself in.

Lt. Eric Pidazo, acting 78th IB Civil Military Relations chief, said they received a call from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) Office of the Capitol asking for a certification confirming Bacerna’s voluntary surrender. Pidazo said this is a requirement for processing assistance to Bacerna.

Garcia said the province’s counter-insurgency program has drawn other rebels to surrender in Cebu.

“There are even  surrenderees who chose to live in Cebu.  Some live in Catmon town and are being monitored by the municipal government.”

“Perhaps Cebu could play its role in casting a more positive influence in a wider scale … and help other provinces deal with their insurgency,” the governor said.  /Correspondent Carmel Loise Matus