Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central said the former rebels surrendered at the headquarters of the 6th Infantry Division at Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
The NPA returnees also surrendered firearms including three 5.56mm M16A1 rifles, two 7.62mm M14 rifles, caliber 30 rifle, two 9mm SMG, two caliber 38 revolvers, three caliber 357 revolvers, hand fragmentation grenade, 5.56mm pistol, two 12 gauge Shotgun, and a 12 gauge pistol.
Major Andrew Linao, the spokesman of Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said that these former NPA rebels decided to surrender because they realized that all promises by their Cadres were not given to them and their communities.
Linao said since January of this year, a total of 56 communist terrorists have surrendered within WestMinCom’s area of operation. The military also reported a total of 46 firearms gains.
Lieutenant General Alfredo Rosario, Jr., WestMinCom said the influx of surrenders is attributable to the good governance of the local chief executives and the strengthened multi-sector collaboration and cooperation.
He said the Armed Forces remain steadfast in conducting combat and non-combat operations, saying the Mindanaoans are with them in this quest for peace.
Photos: Western Mindanao Command PIO