Rebel returnee receives P500K cash from MisOcc LGU

A high ranking rebel surrenderee who was a squad leader of "Guerilla Front Sendong” received P500,000 in cash from Governor Henry Oaminal as financial assistance for returning to mainstream society, May 19, at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center.(SMRN/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)

A high ranking rebel surrenderee who was a squad leader of "Guerilla Front Sendong” received P500,000 in cash from Governor Henry Oaminal as financial assistance for returning to mainstream society, May 19, at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center.

The provincial government acknowledged the efforts of the rebel returnee, to inspire others who are still in the mountains who may be considering a similar path, and foster unity and peace in Misamis Occidental.

In his welcome message, Battalion Commander of the 10th Infantry "Steady On" Battalion, Lt. Colonel Jose Andre R Monje, Infantry General Staff Corps, Philippine Army said that the purpose of the ceremonial handover of reward to a rebel returnee is to recognize and celebrate the transformation and reintegration of an individual who has chosen to leave behind a life of armed rebellion and embrace a path of peace and positive contribution to society.

“The status of insurgency here in Misamis Occidental is that they are now dwindling from the top. We reduced them their firearms specifically and also with the manpower. So, we encourage them to avail the government services and leave the armed struggle,” he shared.

In an interview, Oaminal encouraged the members of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the law.

“Akong gihangyo ang atong mga kaigsuonan nga naa pa karon sa kabukiran, 16 nalang na sila kabuok. Kung mahimo mag-uban nata, gawas sa award nga ihatag sa national government, naa sad atong reward gikan sa probinsyal government ug dili lang kanang tag P500,000 kung dili naa ta’y sustainable livelihood program nga atleast ma enjoy sad ninyo ang inyong pagbalik sa sabakan sa gobyerno na life is now getting more beautiful rather than naa dinha sa kabukiran.”

Cesar, a squad leader of "Guerilla Front Sendong” encouraged his former comrades who are still active in the terrorist group to return to the folds of the law as he felt the sincerity of the government in helping them start anew a peaceful life through the assistance and support he and his family have been receiving.

"Sulod sa duha gyud namo ka bulan dinhi, maayo gyud ang pag tratar.Akong panawagan sa akoang mga kauban nga kadtong nangaigo nga nangabali na ang ilahang mga bukton labi na ni akoang ig-agaw nga si Jeboy, si Jane si Jophel ug kadtong uban pa nga samaron na si Andot, si Richard. Ug mo gawas gyud sila mo surrender maparehas sa akoa andam gyud gihapon ang gobyerno mo tabang sa ilaha," he said.

(In the span of two months here, they have treated us very well. I am calling out my comrades those who have been injured and arms have been dislocated especially my cousin Jeboy,, Jane and Jophel and those who are still wounded particularly Andot and Richard to get out and surrender here simlar to me there is government to help them.)

The 10th Infantry Steady-on Battalion also presented the recovered firearms as a result of the series of encounters from February to April of 2023 in the Hinterlands of Misamis Occidental.

Among the weapons recovered: One (1) Cal.45 Pistol, Two (2) AK47 Rifle, Two (2) CZ Rifle, One (1) M223-5.56mm Rifle, Two (2) M16A1 Rifle. Each of these firearms stands as a testament to the triumphs achieved by the unit through their unwavering dedication and unwavering spirit, they have not only recovered these weapons but have also restored a sense of security and peace to the community.

The Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental under the leadership and initiative of Gov. Oaminal, passed the resolution NO. 513-22, September 19, 2022-granting financial assistance to identified local communist leaders in the province who shall return or surrender under the folds of the law.

Under the resolution; an amount of P500,000 each shall be granted to those identified as communist terrorist leaders and an amount of P300,000 each shall grant to those identified as communist terrorist group members.(SMRN/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)