SIXTY-THREE Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) have surrendered due to community-driven initiatives led by Eastern Mindanao Command troops, in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), from Sept. 7 to 14.
Major Salvacion Evangelista, spokesperson for EastMinCom, reported that the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) facilitated the surrender of 16 CNTs who brought along 12 firearms and one Anti-Personnel Mine (APM), while the 10th Infantry Division (10ID) facilitated the surrender of 49 CNTs with seven firearms.
Local peace initiatives and a Former Rebel Summit organized by EastMinCom units have demonstrated the effectiveness of community-driven approaches in achieving peaceful resolutions.
Persistent dialogue, supported by local government efforts, has successfully encouraged CNTs to abandon the ideologies of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) without resorting to violence.
LtGen. Luis Rex D. Bergante PA, commander of EastMinCom, renewed his call for the remaining CTG members to surrender peacefully and reintegrate into society.
“We encourage you to be partners in progress, not hindrances. Together, we can build a more prosperous and secure future for your families and communities,” Bergante said.
EastMinCom remains committed to supporting surrendering rebels by offering programs for rehabilitation, reintegration, and livelihood opportunities to help them rejoin society.
