High-ranking Rebel Surrenderee Receives P500,000 Financial Assistance from Misamis Occidental Governor

 

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental (TriMedia Digital) - In a significant step towards promoting peace and unity in Misamis Occidental, a high-ranking rebel surrenderee from "Guerrilla Front Sendong" was granted P500,000 in cash as financial assistance by Governor Henry Oaminal. The ceremony took place on May 19 at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center, where the provincial government recognized the rebel returnee's efforts to inspire others to abandon armed rebellion and reintegrate into mainstream society.

Lt. Colonel Jose Andre Monje, Battalion Commander of the 10th Infantry "Steady On" Battalion, emphasized that the purpose of the reward handover was to acknowledge and celebrate the transformation and reintegration of an individual who had chosen the path of peace. The ceremony aimed to encourage other rebels to avail themselves of government services, leave behind armed struggle, and contribute positively to society.

Commenting on the dwindling status of insurgency in Misamis Occidental, Lt. Colonel Monje stated, "We reduced their firearms specifically, as well as their manpower. So, we encourage them to avail themselves of government services and leave the armed struggle."

Governor Oaminal urged members of the Communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) to lay down their arms and return to the law's folds. He assured them of the provincial government's support, stating, "Apart from the award given by the national government, we also have a reward from the provincial government. It's not just the P500,000, but we also have a sustainable livelihood program that you can enjoy. With your return to the bosom of the government, life is now getting more beautiful than it was there in the mountains."

The rebel returnee, Cesar, a former squad leader of "Guerrilla Front Sendong," echoed Governor Oaminal's sentiments, encouraging his former comrades still active in the terrorist group to surrender. Cesar highlighted the sincerity of the government's assistance and support he and his family had received, emphasizing the opportunity for a peaceful and fulfilling life.

Additionally, the 10th Infantry "Steady On" Battalion presented recovered firearms from encounters that took place between February and April 2023 in the Hinterlands of Misamis Occidental. The weapons included a Cal.45 Pistol (1), AK47 Rifle (2), CZ Rifle (2), M223-5.56mm Rifle (1), and M16A1 Rifle (2). The battalion's unwavering dedication and spirit not only led to the recovery of these firearms but also restored a sense of security and peace to the community.

To support the reintegration process, the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, led by Governor Oaminal, passed Resolution No. 513-22 on September 19, 2022. The resolution grants financial assistance to identified local communist leaders who choose to surrender and return under the folds of the law. Communist terrorist leaders are eligible to receive P500,000 each, while communist terrorist group members can receive P300,000 each.