FIVE New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered and turned over explosives and firearms in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, military officials said Wednesday, September 11.

Lieutenant Colonel John Andrada, Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion commander, said the five NPA rebels surrendered to them Tuesday in Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte.

Andrada said they turned over eight anti-tank improvised explosives, one Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) and one caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle.

Colonel Leonel Nicolas, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the five NPA rebels surrendered brought about by pressures of the relentless military operation against them.

“We hoped that they can encouraged some of their comrades to follow their path for them to benefit the programs of the government,” Nicolas added.

Andrada said they will assist the surrenderers to enroll and benefit with the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip). (SunStar Philippines)