Kin of slain rebels claim bodies

FAMILIES of the killed New People's Army members in Laak, Compostela last week are now claiming the remains of their kin with the help of military police and the local government.

60th Infantry Battalion mediator 2nd Lt. Amadeuz Celestial, in a statement released yesterday, bared that seven of the eight cadavers were already identified by the police as well as their relatives who could claim them.

Eight bodies of killed NPA rebels were recovered by the joint elements of 25th Infantry Battalion and 60th Infantry Battalion after their encounter with the NPA on Wednesday morning, July 12. One soldier was also killed during the incident.

Celestial said Mayor Antonio Libuangan of Laak has already committed to assist the families of the killed rebels.

He also said Libuangan said all government aid and services are has been received by the families of victims.

The LGU has already coordinated with the Provincial Government and Congressman Roel Peter Gonzaga’s Office to assist.

The LGU has already shouldered the funeral expenses of the four who are from Laak, Compostela Valley Province. Those from other municipalities were turned over to their respective LGUs for the same assistance.

Celestial added that as per police records and procedure, it has been found out that at least two of the killed NPAs were involved in murder and most are already on the government’s intelligence watch list.