Ex-NPA militia member surrenders firearm in Negros Occidental

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A former militia member of the dismantled Central Negros 2, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, surrendered to the 2nd Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company at its headquarters in Barangay Gargato, Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, on Thursday, June 25.

The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region reported that the woman formally withdrew her support from the New People’s Army and turned over a .357-caliber revolver and three live rounds of .38-caliber ammunition.

According to a report from the regional office, the former rebel sought to clear her name and expressed willingness to cooperate with the government’s peace and security efforts.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has waged one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies since 1969.

Police Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño, acting regional director of PRO-NIR, said the development marked another significant accomplishment in the sustained campaign to end the local communist armed conflict.

“This surrender is another step toward ending insurgency through unity and trust,” he added.

The rebel returnee received cash assistance and a sack of rice before she was released to her family.

Cardiño encouraged those who continue to support the NPA to choose peace, return to the fold of the law, and become partners in building a safer and more progressive region.

Meanwhile, the NPA, through the Armando Sumayang Jr. Command, claimed responsibility for another killing, accusing a farmer of being an alleged military asset in Barangay Camindangan, Cauayan, on June 19.

Based on a report from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, the victim, identified only as 43-year-old Arnel, was found dead inside his house with multiple gunshot wounds.

The victim’s sister heard gunshots on the night of June 19 a few meters from his house but ignored them.

She was informed two days later about the discovery of her brother’s decomposing body.

Out of fear of possible retaliation from the suspects, the victim’s family did not report the incident to authorities and instead immediately buried him beside his house, according to police.

Authorities learned about the incident only recently through the NPA’s statement posted on its website.

A separate local report said police identified the victim by the alias “Arnel” and said his body was found in Sitio Badyang, Barangay Camindangan, on June 21, two days after the shooting.