Army discovers NPA food, medical cache buried in Bukidnon

ILIGAN CITY – The military on Wednesday morning dug out approximately 40 sacks of rice and numerous food and medical supplies of the New People’s Army (NPA) buried in a far-flung community in Valencia City, Bukidnon province.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) on Thursday also reported the surrender of seven members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Maguindanao.

Lt. Col.Randy O.Remonte, commanding officer of the 88th Infantry Battalion said the items placed in plastic containers were discovered by the soldiers who were conducting focused military operations near Sitio Bulacao in Barangay Concepcion around 8:00 a.m.

He said there were a total of 67 water containers filled with rice and two drums filled with medical supplies and assorted food items.

The military official said residents tipped off authorities of the presence of the NPA.

"We appreciate the support of the residents of Brgy. Concepcion, Valencia City, most especially Punong Barangay Luzviminda P. Santillan. We would not be able to locate these items without their vigilance and cooperation,” he said.

Remonte also warned those who continue to support the NPAs that such acts are unlawful.

"It is very unfortunate, however, that with the discovery of this food and medical cache, it appears that there are still those who continue to aid the CPP-NPA terrorists, especially the local businessmen and even the local officials. We would like to remind everyone that aiding terrorists is against the law and you will be liable under Section 4 of Republic Act 10168." he said.

7 NPAs surrender ZAMBOANGA CITY – Joint Task Force Central (JTF-Central) Commander Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega identified the NPA fighters who surrendered on Monday, Feb. 12 as Godus Sintaw, 36; Arnel Dimantukay, 21; Donie Diwan, 28; Ghagha Ansag, 25; Danilo Mingkay, 25; Larry Ugalingan, 34; and Jimmy Ulangkaya, 34.

Dela Vega said the seven also turned over to the military a 7.62mm M14 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, a homemade M16 sniper rifle, a Springfield rifle, a Caliber .38 revolver, a hand grenade, and a landmine.

Dela Vega said that the surrenderers returnees were also made to undergo custodial debriefing and medical checkup upon their surrender.

“We have them medically checked in order to make sure that none of them is ill. If ever there are medical conditions that need attention, we will automatically have these treated while they are under our care,” he said.

Since January 1, 2017, troops have already facilitated the surrender of 146 communist rebels in the Westmincom’s area of operations. The military said a total of 42 NPA members have surrendered since January.