One NPA surrenders to 44IB, Tabak troopers

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 19, 2017) - One NPA member  voluntarily surrendered to the government troops of 44^th Infantry (AGILE “N” STABLE) Battalion, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division 3:00pm Sunday, military official said.

Information officer Maj Richard A. Enciso (Inf) PA disclosed that Benson Niadas, alias Rey, a medic of MRGU, Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee, brought along his M16 rifle during his surrender.

Maj. Enciso said that based on his revelations, aka REY was involved in the recent encounter of 3rd Infantry Battalion in Bgry Gasa Lakewood, Zamboangadel Sur on 8 and 10 December 2017 respectively.

Accordingly, Rey was convinced by his relative, also a surenderee from 44IB, to return to the folds of law and to avail the CLIP Program of the government. Government forces were also sincere in protecting the rebel returnees.

He also stressed that he is tired of hiding, experienced hunger and hardships and dissatisfied of the NPA ideology and organization’s policy. Rey also mentioned that some of his comrades were planning to surrender just to be with their families this yuletide season.

The 102nd Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army under the leadership of Brig. General Jacinto R Barenghas intensified its efforts against terrorist group through combat operations and information disseminations with the support of all local chief executives and other stakeholders so that those who wanted to return and surrender can avail the Comprehensive Local Integration Program of the government.

“The surrender and revelation of aka REY is a proof that there are more NPA members who are tired and wanted to live a normal and peaceful life.” said Brig. General Roseller G Murillo, 1st Infantry Division Commander.

“The Tabak troopers will assist surrenderees so that they can avail the benefits of the CLIP”, he added.