TWO New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered to military authorities in Zamboanga del Norte as the government’s counterinsurgency campaign continues to gain headway.
Lieutenant Colonel Anshary Pumbaya, 44th Infantry Battalion commander, said that Joshua Sango Alima alias Ka Abner and Analyn Balayong alias Ka Milan have surrendered to his troops in Macasing village, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte on Saturday, August 12.
Pumbaya said that Alima and Balayong belong to the defunct Main Regional Guerrilla Unit of the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.
Alima and Balayong decided to surrender and embrace the path of peace four days after they clashed with government troops in New Rizal village, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte on August 8.
One of their comrades was killed during the clash on August 8 in New Rizal village.
Pumbaya said the decision of Alima and Balayong to surrender was driven by the hardships they endured coupled with their knowledge that the government forces treat the surrenderers humanely.
Pumbaya said that Alima and Balayong yielded a baby Armalite rifle with ammunition when they surrendered to the 44IB troopers.
Pumbaya assured they will provide proper care for the two NPA surrenderers while they are in their custody.
The two NPA surrenderers were subjected to medical check-ups to ensure that they are in good state of health.
Pumbaya said that Alima and Balayong will be enrolled in the Enhance Comprehensive Local Integration Program, which offers cash assistance, livelihood opportunities, firearm remuneration, legal and medical aid and housing projects.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Elmer Suderio, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, expressed his gratitude to Alima and Balayong for choosing the right path in returning to the folds of the law.
Suderio reiterated his call to the remaining NPA rebels to follow the decision of the two and embrace the path of peace and reconciliation. ((SunStar Zamboanga)