Pregnant NPA, 2 vice squad commanders yield
CAMP DATU LIPUS MAKAPANDONG, Awa New Leyte, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – A pregnant 21-year old alleged medical officer and two vice squad commanders of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) voluntarily surrendered to Army authorities in San Luis, Agusan del Sur, Capt. Aldim T. Viernes, Civil Military Operation (CMO) chief of the Army’s 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion (26th IB) on Thursday reported.
The 26th IB CMO officer also said the pregnant CNT medical officer, her husband a 23-year old squad commander and another 34-year old squad commander, also voluntarily gave up to Army authorities their one M16 Armalite A1 rifle with one magazine loaded with live ammunitions, one AR18 rifle with three magazines loaded with live ammunitions and one shotgun with live ammunitions.
Identities of the surrendered CNTs are temporarily withheld for their safety and security, but Capt. Nieves said all of them were former members of Platoon Peacock, Guerrilla Front 88 (GF 88) of the CPP-NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
The couple surrendered with the help of one of the tribal leaders in the area.
Initially, they voluntarily surrendered to the elements of “Bravo Company” of the 26th IB on Tuesday (Nov. 27) and officially presented yesterday to Lt. Col. Romeo C. Jimenea, commanding officer of the 26th IB.
Hardships inside the movement, lack of rest and food, and pressure from their family were among the reasons why the three former rebels (FRs) surrendered to the government, added Capt. Viernes.
“They made the right decision. We will give our full support to extend assistance to these rebels, most importantly to the pregnant woman, who will become a mother in two months,” said Lt. Col. Jimenea, adding “We will facilitate the necessary medical checkups for her.”
The 26th IB commander also assured that the two will also receive government support after their enrolment to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.
“Again, we are calling on all the remaining rebels to grab the E-CLIP of the government and this could be your best Christmas gift to your wife and family this holiday, to be with them, happy and safe,” further added Lt. Col. Jimenea.