CAMP Lapulapu, Cebu City – In a heartwarming turn of event, the two (2) NPA Leaders who recently returned to the folds of the law in Borongan City, Samar revealed that longingness to be with their families is the primary reason why they embrace the path of peace and abandon the armed struggle.
The two (2) former rebels, whose identities remain confidential for security reasons, shared heartfelt reflections on their time with the terrorist group. They expressed deep regret for the years they spent entrenched in a misguided cause, acknowledging how it robbed them of precious moments with their families. Filled with remorse, they admitted to longing for the warmth of home and a future free from the false promises of the struggle they once believed in.
This was disclosed following the visit of Lieutenant General Fernando M. Reyeg PA, the Commander of the Visayas Command at the Headquarters of 78th Infantry Battalion in Borongan City, Samar.
Lt. Gen. Reyeg praised the courage of the former rebels for choosing the path of peace, “The decision of these former rebels to return to the folds of the law is a testament to their recognition that peace and stability cannot be achieved through violence. Their brave decision to embrace peace and rejoin their families is a significant step towards healing and reconciliation. Their actions likewise speak as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to choose a better path and contribute to the nation’s progress.”
It can be recalled that the two (2) former rebels returned to the folds of the law on December 01 through the efforts of the 78th Infantry Battalion under the Wish Upon A Star project of the 802nd Infantry Brigade. Their return was marked by an emotional reunion with their families and loved ones. The scene was poignant, as tears of joy and relief flowed, highlighting the cost of prolonged separation.
These ex-combatants also yielded several war materiel including 11 high-powered firearms comprising of one (1) M60 Light Machine Gun, one (1) K3 Squad Automatic Weapon, two (2) AK47 Rifles, four (4) M16 Rifles, one (1) M14 Rifle, one (1) M4 Carbine, and one (1) M653 Assault Rifle.
Lt. Gen. Reyeg added, “The reunion of the two (2) former rebels with their families is not just a victory for peace but also a powerful message to the few remaining members of the CPP-NPA, as we persistently urge them to embrace the path of peace and follow the example of their comrades who have chosen to build a future of hope and harmony with their families.”
The two (2) former rebels are currently undergoing profiling for their enrollment to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) where they will be granted with livelihood assistance and other benefits prior their reintegration to mainstream society.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Visayas, Command, AFP Facebook Page.
