2 NPA Rebels Surrender to 53rd IB

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 17, 2017) - Two regular members of the New Peoples’ Army surrendered to the 53^rd Infantry Battalion yesterday morning (May 16), military official said.

Ltc Virgilio C Hamos Jr, Commanding Officer of 53IB disclosed that the two were identified as Rey Anthony S. Dungog, 19 years old and Alvin Ladra Calibo, 24 years old, both single, residents of Brgy Balagon, Siay, ZSP and members of the Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU), WMRPC operating in the Western Mindanao area.

2Lt Maverick Rey C Mira, Intelligence Officer of this unit who facilitated the surrender said that based on the results of the initial debriefing, the two cited the extreme hardship and hunger they endured during their stay with the group in addition to the unfulfilled promises as the reasons for quitting. 

Accordingly, during the recruitment, the two were enticed by the promise of a Php10,000.00 monthly salary, however once they were with the group and were taken to an unfamiliar place, they were told that their membership was voluntary and no such salary will be given.

Ltc Virgilio C Hamos Jr immediately initiated the process of facilitating the enrollment of the two rebels to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

Hamos said, once their applications are approved, each of them will receive livelihood training and cash assistance to help them reintegrate to the mainstream society.

Meanwhile Col Jacinto R Bareng, Commander of 102^nd Brigade commended the 53^rd Infantry Battalion for their successive accomplishments.