TWO COMMUNIST rebels surrendered, and five high-powered firearms were recovered in separate operations in Bukidnon and Surigao del Sur on March 12-13.
According to the belated military report, two NPA members surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.
The military attributed the surrender to sustained operational pressure and dwindling support from the local populace. The former rebels also turned over an M16 rifle.
Lt. Col. Jeorge R. Jallorina, 8IB commanding officer, said the surrenderees provided “valuable information” to help dismantle remaining NPA elements in their area of responsibility.
In a separate development on March 13, troops from the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) unearthed an arms cache in Sitio Gis Anan, Barangay Carromata, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.
The haul included three M16 rifles, one Colt M4 rifle, magazines, ammunition, and other war materiel.
Lt. Col. Rey Vergel A. Annogui, 30IB commanding officer, noted that the discovery was a follow-up to an earlier arms recovery in the neighboring Sitio Lago on March 11.
In his message, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, said these achievements further weakened the operational capability of the remaining Communist Terrorist Group.
“These highlight the continued decline of the NPA as more of its members choose to surrender while their resources and firearms are gradually being recovered through our focused military operations. Although we will not rest on our laurels in pursuing them on the battlefield, we still encourage them to take the opportunity to return to the folds of the law and live peaceful lives with their families,” he added.
