2 NPA rebels nabbed, 2 surrender in Bicol

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 22, 2024): 2 NPA rebels nabbed, 2 surrender in Bicol (By Connie Calipay)

Police Regional Office 5 regional headquarters in Legazpi City, Albay (PNA file photo)

LEGAZPI CITY – Two New People's Army (NPA) rebels wanted for various crimes were arrested, while two others voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Sorsogon and Albay on separate occasions early this week, a belated police report showed on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5), confirmed that "Ren" and "Tono Mores" were both arrested for murder and are now in police custody after their arrest in separate operations in Monreal, Masbate on Tuesday.

She said the suspects were both affiliated with the Militia ng Bayan under the command of Eliseo Cabarles, alias "Ka Kiko," of Platoon 1, Kilusang Larangang Guerilla (KLG) North, Sub-Regional Committee 4 (SRC4).

The Monreal Municipal Police Station led the operations in coordination with the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) and the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of the Masbate Police Provincial Office (PPO).

Meanwhile, two members of the rebel group, identified by their aliases “Ric” and “Jon,” voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Sorsogon and Albay, respectively, also on Tuesday.

"Their decision to return to the folds of the law reflects the growing success of the government’s campaign to encourage rebels to abandon their armed struggle and seek a peaceful and productive life," Calubaquib said.

She said Ric and Jon would be given access to government programs designed to help former rebels reintegrate into society, ensuring their safety and welfare as they embrace peace and reform.

In a statement, PRO5 chief Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said they remain firm in their commitment to safeguard the Bicol Region from insurgency and terrorism.

"The recent arrests and surrenders are a testament to the unwavering dedication of the PNP and its partner agencies to neutralizing threats to peace and security," he said.

Dizon encouraged the public to continue supporting these efforts by providing information that could lead to the capture of other wanted persons and further dismantle the NPA's operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1231745