Misamis Occidental rewards last Guerrilla Front Sendong member for choosing peace in MisOcc

Gov. Henry Oaminal handed over a cash reward of P500,000 to a.k.a. Babylin, a 2nd Deputy Squad Leader of Guerilla Front Sendong, who bravely abandoned a life of armed rebellion in favor of a peaceful one. During the PPOC, MOPADAC, and PDRRMC joint meeting on January 26, 2024, held at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center, Capitol, Oroquieta City. (Photo courtesy of 10IB)

Demonstrating his commitment to peace and security, Governor Henry S. Oaminal of Misamis Occidental fulfilled his promise by honoring the last Guerrilla Front Sendong member who chose the path of surrender to the 10th Infantry "Steady On" Battalion (10IB) during the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting on January 26, 2024.

Oaminal welcomed Babyln Labastida, also known as Hill, the 2nd Deputy Secretary of the Guerrilla Front Sendong, and gave him a generous cash reward of P500,000. This gesture underscores the provincial government's dedication to supporting former rebels in their journey toward peaceful and productive lives.

As the Chairperson of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), Oaminal recognizes the importance of extending assistance to those who have chosen to lay down their arms and embrace a more constructive future.

The surrender of Labastida represents a significant accomplishment in the ongoing efforts to create an Insurgency-Free Misamis Occidental, which is in line with the province's vision as expressed in the 5Ms (Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon, and Malipayon).

Governor Oaminal expressed his admiration for the exceptional dedication and sacrifices made by the 10IB Commanding Officer, LTC Jose André Monje INF (GSC) PA, and his troops in dismantling the Guerrilla Front Sendong. This accomplishment is a testament to the province's unwavering commitment to achieving lasting peace and prosperity for its residents.

The Misamis Occidental Provincial Government remains steadfast in its pursuit of sustainable peace and unity, and the recent surrender is a clear indication that the province is on the right path toward realizing its vision for a more tranquil and prosperous future. (10IB/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)