25 NPAs give up armed struggle in Ilocos Sur

NEW PEOPLE’s ARMY surrenderees in Ilocos Sur take oath of allegiance to the Philippine government. 

By Liezle Basa Inigo

STA. MARIA, Ilocos Sur -- Twenty five New People’s Army guerillas have abandoned armed struggle and recently surrendered to authorities here.
    Sta. Maria Mayor Brigido C. Camarillo Jr. administered the former rebels’ pledge of allegiance to the government, withdrawal of support from the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA, and Panunumpa sa Watawat.
    “We urge those who would like to surrender to not be afraid. We are ready to help you anytime and our office is open 24/7 to receive you,” he said.
    The 25 members belonged to Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL), Pambansang Kilusan ng Magsasaka (PKM), Malayang Kilusan ng Bagong Kababaihan (MAKIBAKA) and Kabataang Makabayan (KM).
    They were NPA combatants and used to join rallies and demonstrations against the government, according to 81st Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Rodrigo A. Mariñas Jr.,
    Last week, 24 underground communist members in Suyo, Ilocos Sur also withdrew their support to CPP-NPA during an indignation rally joined by 240 residents led by Suyo Mayor Mario B. Subagan and  local government officials.