Maramag Bukidnon – Two members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) operating in the area of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon under Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC-2), North Central Mindanao Regional Party Committee (NCMRC) surrendered to 88th Infantry Battalion under 403rd Infantry Brigade.
The said surrender came as a result of the unit’s continued campaign against the said terrorist group in the mountainous areas of Pantaron Mountain Ranges, covering Malaybalay City, San Fernando, and Cabanglasan Bukidnon.
“SAM” , 24 years old, Squad Leader, and his wife “ELLA” , 24 years old, Squad Medic, are former members of Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) Platoon codenamed “PEDDLER/HAMMER”. They disclosed that fatigue, hunger, lack of sleep, sickness, and their great desire to be with their families and loved ones were the reasons they decided to come down and surrender.
They further revealed that given the chance most of them would want to surrender because the military campaign for the past years has been successful and with the passage of EO-70, NTF- ELCAC, they lost most of their mass base.
Meanwhile, in accordance with the health protocol to prevent the spread of Covid, the said personalities underwent a Covid Antigen test and were tested negative. The couple is now undergoing debriefing and documentation that will allow authorities to facilitate the granting of their benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
LTC Christian James Vingno, Commanding Officer of 88IB, said: “The end is near to this terrorist group. They have become so insignificant and I am confident that by the end of this year we will be able to finish them totally.
The people of Bukidnon now enjoy the peace that was so elusive in the past. We will make sure that they will continue to enjoy the peace and development that the government will continue to give. To the remaining members of NPA, I encourage you to surrender and return to the folds of the law. Avail of the programs of the government most of your members have already benefited, Vingno added. (Victor Baldemor)
