By Franco G. Regala
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – Five members of the New People’s Army in Sta. Ana, this province, surrendered to local officials Thursday.
Major Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., commander of the Army 7th Infantry Division, said that joint efforts of the military, Philippine National Police, and local officials of Sta. Ana headed by Mayor Norberto G. Gamboa prompted the rebels to surrender.
They yielded one improvised shotgun, one 9mm pistol, and three caliber .30 pistols.
Santos said they will be presented to Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda for documentation and assistance.
“They will be assessed for the Comprehensive Local Integration Program which give benefits comprised of financial assistance, livelihood trainings, aside from the firearms remuneration,’’ he said.
Last Jan. 30, seven rebels surrendered in Pampanga through the efforts of Gamboa with the assistance of the 48th Infantry Battalion.
Santos said that he appreciates the dedication of local government officials in encouraging rebels to go back to the fold of the law.
