6 abducted Cafgus freed

Six militiamen who were abducted by communist guerillas two months ago were released on February 14 at Purok 12-A, Poblacion, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

Major General Felimon Santos Jr., commander of Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), said in a statement that the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu)–Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) members were released around 6 p.m. through the third party facilitator and turned over to 401st Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division at the Headquarters of the 8th Special Forces Company, 3rd Special Forces Battalion, SFRA, of the Philippine Army at Purok 12-A, Poblacion, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. The militiamen were identified CAA1 Jurian B. Gaviola; CAA1 Marson C. Iligan; CAA1 Bienvinido A. Lamion; CAA1 Eddie J. Tindoy; CAA1 Sanny G. Malobay; and CAA1 Hermito M. Iligan. Santos said the release was brought about by the military’s relentless operations to rescue them.

“As of this time, our units in the area are continuously conducting military operations to rescue the remaining troops who are still being held and used as human shields and propaganda subject by the NPAs (New People’s Army),” Santos added.

On December 19, two soldiers and 13 Cafgu members from New Tubigon Patrol base in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur were taken hostage by the New People’s Army (NPA). The two soldiers and the seven Cafgus remain in the hands of the rebels. Santos assured that the abduction by the rebels will not stop their security operations and affect their effort and commitment to protect the communities. The CAA were given the time to talk with their immediate families and undergo normal processing such as medical check-up and debriefing. /