TACLOBAN CITY – An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to government forces in Sogod, Southern Leyte, on Monday, September 2.
Joey Calinawan, also known by the aliases “Reden” and “Gerald,” was said to be a full-time member of Squad 1, Platoon 1, Island Committee-LEVOX (IC-LEVOX) under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), turned himself in to the 14th Infantry Battalion (14IB) of the Philippine Army, which operates under the 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IB).
Upon surrendering, Calinawan provided valuable intelligence on the activities of his former comrades, including the locations of their hideouts and arms caches.
This information led to the recovery of several firearms, including a Colt Elisco 5.56 M16 rifle, a 9mm pistol, magazines, ammunition, and subversive materials.
Lt. Col. Edgar Gabia, commander of the 14IB, attributed the success of Calinawan’s surrender to intensified military operations and ongoing efforts to engage with the families of active NPA members.
He also credited the cooperation of local government units, the community, and former NPA members who have abandoned the armed struggle.
Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802IB, emphasized the growing isolation of the NPA and the toll the continued struggle has taken on its members.
“The NPA leadership refuses to acknowledge that their members are exhausted, hungry, and separated from their families. They are no longer welcome in the communities, as the issues they exploited have been addressed by local government and community efforts,” Vestuir said in a statement.
The Army general renewed his appeal to remaining active rebels to surrender and return to the fold of the law.
“You have suffered too much under the deceptions of the communist terrorist group. Your families and the future of your children are at stake,” he said.
“The government offers programs like the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the Local Social Integration Program, and the newly proclaimed amnesty program to help you transition to a peaceful life. Our efforts will continue until every last one of you has chosen peace,” Vestuir added.(JOEY A. GABIETA)
