ONCE again, two members of the left-wing terrorist group CPP-NPA-NDF from North Luzon have renounced their allegiance and surrendered to the government, including a commander from the group.
The information was disclosed in a meeting in Baguio City by the Cordillera’s 5th Infantry Division.
Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro graces the event with officials from key government offices.
One of the defectors is a commander of the notorious Leo Kawilan Brigade of the Ilocoso who has held high positions in operations against the government.
With that, the military recovered 29 high-caliber firearms and other war materials through the cooperation of the alias “Lipat.”
In the province of Abra, a former member of the Augustine Begnalent Command voluntarily surrendered to the government, carrying an M653 rifle.
He is known by the monicker ‘Ronron’ who has got deeply into terrorism.
For his part, Secretary Teodoro has encouraged all remaining CTG warriors to avail of available government assistance.
Under the Marcos administration, the government spent millions of pesos as a budget for returning rebels giving livelihood assistance to thousands who availed.
“I would like to take this opportunity for the comrades of the two defectors. What reason do you have to hold guns and intimidate our fellow citizens? The president himself has declared that the government is open for your return and will provide you with a fresh start. The country is facing significant challenges, and we cannot afford to be divided. We need to unite to strengthen and develop the nation to face external issues,” Sec. Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro, Department of National Defense said.
Furthermore, Teodoro emphasized that there is no longer any reason to continue the armed struggle.
“There is no reason for the arms struggle. That ideology, it’s all lies… because ideology is a failure. The communist ideology did not succeed in our country, especially here in the Cordillera. They don’t want to embrace a peaceful life following the law. If there is a way or bridge to provide them with a peaceful life… what is the NPA doing? They immediately ambush. Take this opportunity to return to the government. Otherwise, all the power of the law will be enforced until you are captured,” Teodoro said.
Meanwhile, according to another army leader, the strength of left-wing groups in the areas of Cagayan and Ilocos is weakening.
Due to successive military operations, local government efforts, and various government agencies.
With that, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) promised that the surrenderees would receive assistance from the government.
