(Photo courtesy of PRO-8)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office-Eastern Visayas urged remaining New People’s Army members in the region to surrender after seven current and former rebels turned themselves in during separate operations this week.
PRO-8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño said police units were intensifying efforts to encourage individuals linked to the NPA to abandon the armed struggle and reintegrate into their communities.
“We want to give them a genuine opportunity to change their lives, live peacefully and become productive members of their communities,” Cardiño said.
Authorities said the seven individuals surrendered on Sept. 22 and 23 in Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar and Eastern Samar. Several firearms, ammunition and a hand grenade were also turned over or recovered.
Among those who surrendered were individuals identified by authorities as current or former members of Yunit Militia and others listed in the non-periodic status report, an internal tracking list used by security forces for suspected NPA members.
The individuals are currently under police custody for documentation and further assessment.
Authorities said they may be considered for enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program and other reintegration initiatives.
The recovered firearms, ammunition and grenade were placed under proper custody for documentation, safekeeping and appropriate disposition.
