56 ex-rebs surrender in Isabela; given veggies

By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.

GAMU, Isabela – Some 56 former members of the New People’s Army surrendered in Isabela recently and were given vegetables by soldiers.   

The 5th Infantry Battalion’s “Bawat Kawal, May Binubungkal” project is now benefiting not only the troopers but former communist rebels.

Chief of Staff Col. Ferdinand Melchor Dela Cruz said the project was launched recently simultaneous with the launching of “Hardin ng Lunas” project as part of the camp’s response to Covid-19 pandemic.

Recently, the troopers shared vegetable harvests to 56 former rebels who are now undergoing reintegration.

Meanwhile, 5ID commander Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina said sharing vegetables was one way of helping former rebels in these trying times.

Meanwhile, the 86th Infantry (HIGHLANDER) Battalion and Quirino Provincial Mobile Force Company helped communities in planting vegetables at Barangay Dingasan, Cabarroguis, Quirino recently.

The project was in line with the Plant, Plant, Plant Program of the Dept. of Agriculture to help communities maintain enough food resources during pandemic.  --  PIA-2/Isabela