Rebel surrenders in Masbate

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- A member of the New People’s Army surrendered to police in Mandaon, Masbate province, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) said on Thursday.

In a report, Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, identified the insurgent as “Ka Kirat,” 58, from the village of Maolingan in Mandaon town.

He surrendered to the police on Wednesday. Calubaquib said that he was operating under the command of a certain “Ka Jaypee” and is affiliated with Platoon 1, Larangan 1, Komiteng Probinsya 4-Masbate, Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC),” the police officer said.

“Ka Kirat” turned over a caliber .38 revolver without a serial number, along with five rounds of live ammunition. The NPA rebel and the surrendered firearm are both in the custody of the Mandaon Municipal Police Station (MPS).

Calubaquib said the surrender was facilitated by the joint personnel from Mandaon MPS and 1st Provincial Mobile Force Compan, Masbate Provincial Police Office (PPO).

The government, under its Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration Program, commits to assist rebels who surrendered. (PNA)