44 NPA rebels surrender

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines – At least 44 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, including a woman, who have surrendered to the Philippine Army were received by the provincial government of Pampanga yesterday.

Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda welcomed the rebel-returnees after the flag-raising ceremony and gave assurance that  they would be provided livelihood opportunities.

Chief Superintendent Aaron Aquino, Central Luzon police acting director, said the rebels, who are residents of Sta. Ana town, also surrendered their firearms.

The surrender is another accomplishment for the Northern Luzon Command after another group of 69 rebels pledged allegiance to the government in Lubuagan, Kalinga on July 6. – Ric Sapnu, Cecille Suerte Felipe