97 rebels abandon
armed struggle
Amidst the onslaught of tropical depression Ondoy and the subsequent
rescue and relief operations, the Philippine Army's intensified
operations and nation-building activities continues, resulting either to
surrender or apprehension of members of the different threats to
national stability.
Reports reaching the Philippine Army Headquarters show that 60 NPA
rebels and 37 MILF rogue elements surrendered to various Army field
units in the country for the month of September alone, including the 23
MILF surrenderees reported in North Cotabato last September 17, bringing
to 417 the number of NPA surrenderees and 433 the number of MILF who
renounce armed struggle in the last nine months.
Also, the Philippine Army units were able to apprehend 18 NPA rebels and
an MILF fighter in the past month, including the two NPA rebels facing
rebellion charges captured by the 82nd Infantry Battalion in Iloilo.
These former rebels who returned to government fold realized that they
are fighting a lost cause and opted to embrace a peaceful life.
Despite the rescue and relief operations being conducted in the affected
areas in Luzon, all Army units shall remain undaunted in its stance
against threats to national stability and development. # |
