Freed soldiers return to Army unit

MANILA, Philippines - The two kidnapped soldiers who were released by communist New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in Bukidnon last Friday have been reunited with their unit, a military official said yesterday.  

Maj. Christian Uy, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said local officials of Misamis Oriental turned over Privates First Class Mamel Cinches and Jerrel Yorong to the officials of the 8th IB last Friday at around 7:30 p.m.

Lt. Col. Lennon Babilonia, chief of the 8th IB, received the freed soldiers at the bishop’s residence in Cagayan de Oro City.

The two underwent physical check-up before they were brought to the 4th ID headquarters in Camp Evangelista for further treatment.

Cinches and Yorong were abducted by NPA rebels in Barangay Bontongon in Impasug-ong town last Aug. 22.

The release happened during the 46th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the political arm of the rebels. It also came amid reports that the government and the insurgents are preparing to resume peace talks that were stalled last year.

“We are grateful to the almighty that the two gallant soldiers have been released and are now back in our organization. We would also like to thank for their families to the fortitude they have showed while their loved ones were still in captivity,” said Col. Jesse Alvarez, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade.