NPA surrenders in Malita municipality

From the Manila Times (May 3): NPA surrenders in Malita municipality

AN ALLEGED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Davao Occidental turned over his firearm after surrendering to the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental on May 1.Capt. McGary Dida, the civil-military operations officer of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, identified him as Juanito alias Payat, 35, resident of Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental. He brought along his M1 Carbine rifle.

“I left the armed group because of fear of being caught in the firefight during the encounter, I am tired of hiding from the government troops,” Oday said.

Last week, a series of encounters transpired in Malapatan, Sarangani province that resulted to the apprehension of three NPAs and the recovery of two high-powered firearms (one M16 and one Carbine) and one low-powered firearm.

“With our intensive security operations and continuous collaborations with our local government units and other stakeholders, we can align our efforts in attaining a peaceful and conflict-resilient communities within our area of operation,” Lt Col. Marion Angcao, 73rd IB commander, said.

The former rebel will be presented to the LGU of Davao Occidental for immediate assistance and enrollment into the Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

“The brigade is always open for the NPAs who are willing to surrender and enjoy the peaceful life. The government has a program that will provide livelihood assistance to help them start a living,” Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan, 1002nd Infantry Brigade commander, said.

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