Six members of the New People’s Army surrendered to government authorities in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, and turned over firearms, ammunition and explosives, authorities said.
The six, identified as members of the remaining forces of Platoon 2, KLG1, SRC2 and BRPC operating in Caramoan, formally surrendered Aug. 13 at Barangay Patag-Belen.
The former rebels surrendered two .45-caliber pistols with ammunition, three anti-personnel improvised explosive devices, a 9mm Luger Mobtec KG9, a Molotov cocktail and M14 ammunition.
Information provided by one of the surrenderers also led government troops to recover additional weapons and ammunition in Barangay Maligaya. The recovered items included an M16 rifle, an M4-type rifle, an M14 rifle and additional ammunition.
The surrender resulted from the combined efforts of the 901st Infantry Brigade, local government units, the Philippine National Police and community members through sustained engagement and Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Operations.
The former rebels will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, or E-CLIP. The program provides financial assistance, livelihood support and remuneration for surrendered firearms.
Brig. Gen. Emil J. Cruz, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, commended the former rebels for choosing peace and assured them of government support as they rebuild their lives.
Cruz also recognized the efforts of the Caramoan local government, the Philippine National Police and the 83rd Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Randy N. Eloreta, in continuing efforts against insurgency in the province.
The 901st Infantry Brigade said it remains optimistic that other remaining NPA members will surrender and return to the fold of the law, contributing to peace and development in the area.
