Brother-rebels surrender to prove their innocence

T’BOLI, South Cotabato – Two ranking leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered Monday to local officials here after they were indicted for the kidnapping of an Army soldier in 2015, and the burning of heavy equipment last year.

T’boli Mayor Dibu Tuan said Mitong Garcisto and his brother Jing yielded to prove their innocence on the kidnapping and arson charges filed against them in connection with the abduction of PFC Kent Subere, a member of the 27th Infantry Battalion who was abducted in Barangay Dumangas, Tboli in April 2015, and the burning of construction equipment in Barangay Edwards, T’boli on January 22, 2016.

T’boli police head Chief Insp. Ramil Villagracia said Mitong Garcisto served as NPA unit militia commander, while Jing served as his deputy under the command of NPA Guerilla Front 73 operating in the provinces of South Cotabato and Sarangani.

The Garcistos yielded following the arrest of their comrade, Rey Blasé last December in Barangay Dumangas, Tboli. Blasé was also the co-accused of the Garcitos in the kidnapping and arson charges.

Tuan said he ordered Villagracia to negotiate with the family of the Garcisto for their possible surrender following the arrest of Blase.

The mayor assured the rebel surrenderees of legal and livelihood assistance from the local government.