Following the killing of a leader of Komiteng Larangang Gerilya Abra-Mountain Province-Ilocos Sur (KLG-AMPIS) and its intelligence officer at Sitio Masameyeo, Brgy. Gueday, Besao, Mountain Province in clashes last week, 3 rebels and two more part-time rebels yielded to the government this week.
Brigadier General Luis Rex Bergante, acting Commander of the 7th Infantry Division said, three (3) regular NPA guerillas and two “Milisyang Bayan” belonging to the KLG-AMPIS surrendered on November 2 and 3.
The three (3) regular NPA members were residents of Besao, Mt. Province who surrendered along with an M14; M16A1; Arisaka 7.7mm rifle; and ammunition; while the two Milisyang Bayan are residents of Lacub and Tubo, Abra who also surrendered an M16 rifle, five magazines, 69 cartridges of ammunition, and a bandoleer and an Elisco M635 Rifle and one (1) short magazine.
Bergante attributed the influx of the KLG-AMPIS members to the tireless efforts of the Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict – CAR, the implementation of the joint AFP-PNP Community Support Program, and the strong support from the community.
BGen Bergante also cited the successful combat operations of the troops leading to the death of KLG-AMPIS leader and its intelligence officer saying that the apparent collapse of the armed group is already near.
“Malaking dagok talaga ang pagkamatay ng dalawang matataas na opisyal ng armadong grupo. Sa mga natitirang miyembro ng NPA, ito na ang pagkakataon na sumuko kayo. May magagandang oportunidad ang naghihintay sa inyo. The doors of opportunity are open kaya naman huwag nang magdalawang isip at sumuko na kayo bago mahuli ang lahat,” Bergante said.