Army to intensify security operation

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 28): Army to intensify security operation

The Army's 3rd Infantry Division will continue to intensify its security operations against lawless groups in Negros and Panay, its commander, Brig. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, yesterday said.

Baladad said they continuously encourage and call upon those who have gone through the wrong path to lay down their armed and renounce the armed violence, apparently referring to the New People's Army.

Together with other stakeholders, he added, they will help them return to the folds of the law and live a peaceful life together with their families.

Military records show that 81 self-confessed rebels in Negros Occidental have surrendered to the 303rd Infantry Brigade since 2010.

Baladad said in a statement issued that he lauded the cooperation of the people in Negros and Panay in putting an end to NPA threats and violence.

The Army is extending its sincere gratitude to the civilians, who informed the soldiers about the presence of lawless armed group, citing the recovery of an M1 garand rifle with a clip of eight ammunition left behind by the NPA in Tapaz, Capiz on Monday, he also said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/August/28/negor3.htm