With the suspension of military operations (SOMO) in effect,
the Cagayan De Oro-based 4th Infantry Division on Monday announced that the New
People's Army (NPA) rebels should now free the two soldiers it abducted last
August.
The SOMO started midnight Dec. 19 and will end midnight of
Jan. 19, 2015.
The two soldiers, identified as Pfc. Mamel T. Cinches and
Pfc. Jerrel H. Yorong, both members of the 8th Infantry Battalion.
The two were unarmed and wearing civilian clothes when
snatched by four fully armed NPA members of SECOM-89 last Aug. 22, 4th Infantry
Division commander Major Gen. Oscar Lactao said.
The two were conducting "Bayanihan" community
development activities at Barangay Bontongon, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon when
snatched by the rebels.
A week after the incident, the NPA announced that they will
release the two kidnapped soldiers as soon as the government declares a SOMO
and suspension of offensive police operations.
However, the government did not give in to the rebel demand
as it considers the ongoing operations against the group a law enforcement one.
"Let’s see if the NPAs are really sincere with their
demand. They can now release our two soldiers anywhere and anytime. I know they
will also do that because the whole nation is closely watching their actions
after they demanded for SOMO. The Filipino nation is hoping for these NPAs to
keep their word," Lactao said.
“I also urge these NPAs to be with us in celebrating the
Yuletide Season. I know their families are also longing to be with them and
praying for them to stop this nonsense armed struggle just like the families
and loved ones of our two soldiers who at this moment are still in pain. Bring
back the time where you and your families and the families of our two soldiers
are happily celebrating the season of love,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=718458
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.