The surrenderers also brought along with them one M16 rifle and one M203 grenade launcher.
Lieutenant Colonel Emilio T. Bautista, the 1st Special Force Battalion, Commanding Officer said the surrenderers held the position of a liaison/commo staff, while the others were regular members. They also brought along with them one M16 rifle and one M203 grenade launcher.
Accordingly, the surrenderers claimed they could no longer bear the extreme exhaustion, hunger, and their desire for safety as the 4ID Intensified its offensives against NPA remnants.
In his statement, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of 4ID said that this development is a clear manifestation of the unwavering efforts of the government to finally end local communist armed conflict and make former foes into friends.
"We acknowledge the bravery of these surrenderers to lay down their arms and work hand in hand with us to end the insurgency. This is a positive step towards achieving our goal," Anayron said.
However, he said "we want to reiterate that we will remain resolute in eliminating the threat posed by the NPA through hunting down those remnants who still fight against us in the mountains and conduct harassments to our peace-loving communities.
📷4th ID