BAGUIO CITY – The government opens its doors to a former New People’s Army (NPA) member in the barrio as he voluntarily surrenders to police authorities on the evening of August 28, 2024 in Baguio City.
Police identified the individual as a 40-year-old male, native of Asipulo, Ifugao, and currently working as a laborer.
The investigation disclosed that he is a former member of the dismantled Kilusang Larangan Guerilla (KLG) Ifugao, known as the Nona Del Rosario Command. Later, he transferred to the also dismantled KLG AMPIS. He was listed in the Periodic Status Report on Threat Groups (PSRTG) for the 2nd Quarter of 2021.
The former insurgent revealed that he was recruited in 2013 by individuals named “Alex” and “Bombo” to serve as a contact in Asipulo, Ifugao. He became a full-fledged member of the Militia ng Bayan in 2015, with the primary role of transporting goods, firearms, and recruits.
Through constant negotiations with the personnel of BCPO City Mobile Force Company (CMFC) and City Intelligence Unit (CIU), the government won his allegiance. As he withdrew his support for the NPA, he also turned over a .45 caliber firearm, five (5) live rounds of ammunition, and one (1) high-explosive 40mm cartridge.
This surrender follows a similar event last July when another former member of KLG AMPIS also surrendered to authorities. The 40-year-old surrenderer will eventually be assisted in enrolling in the DILG-administered Package of Assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). The E-CLIP is an initiative of the government to reintegrate former insurgent groups by offering financial, livelihood, educational, legal and other support tailored to the needs of the surrenderers.
“Sa Bagong Pilipinas, ang Gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas Ka”
In a statement of PCol. Francisco B. Bulwayan, JR., BCPO City Director, highlighted the dedication of the Baguio’s Finest in extending a hand of reconciliation and support to the remaining insurgents. “By working closely with former insurgents, we aim to create a pathway for reconciliation and reintegration, showing that peace is not only a possibility but a shared goal for all,” he said.
With unity as a core value, the government ensures that those who choose to return to the fold of the law are given the necessary assistance for reintegration, offering them a clear path to redemption.
