Seven self-confessed supporters of the New People’s Army surrendered to government troops, while two were arrested in Negros Oriental and Isabela, Negros Occidental, recently.

Col. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army based in Tanjay City, Oriental Negros, identified the two arrested in Barangay Sikatuna, Isabela town, Negros Occidental, as Orlie Magdasal and Ricky Castillo. Shotguns and several rounds of ammunition were recovered from them.

Those who surrendered to units under the 302nd Brigade were Alver Solano of Nagbinlod, Sta. Catalina; Melchor Bayno of Brgy. Maghalos, Vallehermoso; Regan Taub “alias Jack”, Brgy. Trinidad, Guihulngan City; Magno Mayagma, of Brgy. Budlasan, Canlaon City, all of Oriental Negros; and Rene Adoli “alias Reneboy”, of Isabela, Renelyn Portillo and Mary Ann Sangalan of Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Patrimonio said the surrenderees supported the underground movement in various capacities. He added that Magdasal and Castillo may not qualify for government remuneration for the firearms seized from them since they were apprehended by the soldiers.

Patrimonio assured that he will look for ways to assist the former rebels. He said the surrender and arrest were big accomplishments for the government, particularly in its internal peace and security plan.*JFP

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