NEW CHAPTER. Mayor Romeo Tamayo (back to camera) of Tupi, South Cotabato, distributes cash aid to former communist rebels after they surrendered to the government on Monday (Dec. 26, 2022). The surrenderers will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. (Photo courtesy of Tupi MIO)
COTABATO CITY – Ten communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to authorities in Tupi town of South Cotabato province, an official said Tuesday.
In a statement, Mayor Romeo Tamayo said the rebels under the NPA's Guerilla Front ALIP turned themselves in on Monday at the town hall.
“We welcome the 10 former rebels who wish to live a peaceful life,” said Tamayo, who also handed over cash assistance and food packs to the returning guerillas.
He said the surrenderers will be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
“In the government, everybody is given the chance to improve their lives, earn a decent income and live peacefully,” Tamayo said.
During the activity witnessed by Police Regional Office-Soccsksargen chief Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, the surrenderers also burned the Communist Party of the Philippines flag as a symbol of their condemnation of all its terrorist activities.
Macaraeg urged other members of the communist group to surrender and avail the government programs for their reintegration into the community. (PNA)
