204 SurSur barangays cleared from rebel influence

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 22): 204 SurSur barangays cleared from rebel influence

A total of 204 barangays of this province have been cleared of rebel influence by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Colonel Isidro Purisima, commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army bared that through the collaborative efforts of the different stakeholders thru “Bayanihan” conducted to the different communities and by bringing the government services closer to the people,"we have awaken most of the masses to withdraw their support with the New People’s Army (NPA)."

"Also, with the conduct of the series of Youth Leadership Summit to the young adults. We have empowered them and created awareness on their role in nation building," he added.

Col. Purisima also confirmed that the NPA has failed to hold the 47th founding anniversary celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) here.

It can be recalled that Surigao del Sur was the favorite hub of the NPA in their celebration for 15 consecutive years.

Further, Col. Purisima said that numerous NPA camps were already seized by the troops under his area of responsibiltiy with 63 firearms gained and 115 CPP-NPA rebels neutralized or surrendered.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741469072376/204-sursur-barangays-cleared-from-rebel-influence