Local government and military officials yesterday called on members of the New People’s Army to take advantage of the government’s offer to help them in their return to mainstream society, as they observe the Lenten season celebration.

“As we take time to reflect ourselves during the Lenten season, let us also unite and pray that our misguided brothers and sisters who are still in the mountains, may change their mind to abandon the armed struggle,” Marañon said.

Marañon said the 15 rebel returnees who recently availed of financial and livelihood assistance from the provincial government of Negros Occidental, made up the fifth batch of former NPA rebels who joined the mainstream society, since last year.

Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta, 3rd Infantry Division commander, also rallied the NPA to take advantage of the government’s integration program, which will provide them an opportunity to return and live peacefully with their respective families.

“There are many ways to solve the challenges of society and fighting is not the solution,” Mabanta said.

“To the family members of the rebels, we will ensure the safety and well-being of your relatives in the rebel movement when they lay down their arms and live peacefully. We will work with other stakeholders to ensure their safety and well-being”, Mabanta also said.

The Armando Sumayang Command of the Southwest Negros Guerilla Front, in a statement, however, called on the Negrenses youth to join the NPA and intensify the people’s war.

Rebel spokesperson Andrea Guerrero said the revolutionary celebration on March 29 in southern Negros manifested their brave determination to frustrate any military campaign of the government under its Oplan Bayanihan campaign.

Despite all the hardships and sacrifices, the revolutionary movement is determined to reach the strategic stalemate and win the national democratic revolution onward to socialism he said.* GPB

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