Eastern Mindanao Command vows more joint operations with PNP against NPAs

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 6): Eastern Mindanao Command vows more joint operations with PNP against NPAs

The Eastern Mindanao Command on Wednesday vowed to conduct more joint operations with the Philippine National Police (PNP) following the arrest of two New People's Army (NPA) rebels and capture of four AK-47 automatic rifles in Barangay Centrala in Surallah town, South Cotabato on Sunday.

“This is just the beginning, our collaboration will further be expanded to include local government units and other agencies," said Eastern Mindanao Command chief, Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III.

Cruz also lauded the PNP for their sterling work in supporting the Eastern Mindanao Command.

He added that only through strong cooperation with local authorities will the rebel threat be ended.

Also seized from the two rebels were a red Mitsubishi Lancer (PGF-172) and 15 AK-47 magazines filled with ammunition, belated reports from Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson Capt. Alberto Caber said.

Caber identified the captured NPA fighters as Ariel Ariano of Barangay San Isidro, Koronadal City and Alexander Puertogalera from Tulunan, North Cotabato.

The two were brought to the T’boli Municipal Police Station for the filing of charges.

27th Infantry Battalion commanding officer Lt. Col. Shalimar Imperial said the remaining NPA members in T’boli, Lake Sebu and in the nearby towns are desperate on their failed recruitment in the area.

“We really appreciate our renewed scheme for joint AFP-PNP law enforcement operations, with information sharing, our operations become more effective," he said.

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