CAMP LAPULAPU— Visayas Command (VISCOM) sustained gains in its fight against insurgency in the Visayas region as it intensified its support to law enforcement efforts in Negros Oriental.
VisCom reported that it recorded 18 armed encounters in the region for March that translated into the neutralization of 25 communist terrorists, five of whom died during encounters while 20 returned to the folds of the law while 14 supporters withdrew support from the terrorist group.
VisCom said that 30 firearms and one 60mm Mortar were also seized, apart from the four anti-personnel mines and four improvised explosive devices recovered by the government troops in the region.
“We will always adhere to our mandate to free the people in the region from the clutches of the CPP–NPA, even as we commit to the task of neutralizing lawlessness and restore the peace and order in Negros Oriental,” VISCOM Commander, Lt/Gen Benedict Arevalo said.
Arevalo added that the CPP–NPA is crumbling, as they continue to lose their foothold in the region. They only have two options, stay on the course of their false armed struggle and fail, or return to the folds of the law and enjoy a peaceful and progressive life with their loved ones.
VISCOM bared that 21 former Rebels in Negros Oriental received P755, 000 cash assistance both from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the national and provincial government following the turn over of the newly-constructed Halfway House in Tanjay City.
Arevalo said by urging the remnants of the CPP–NPA to return to the folds of the law, the door of genuine peace remains open for them.
“Grab the opportunity and take it while you still have the chance. Follow the lead of your former comrades, lay down your arms, return to the folds of the law, and live a peaceful life with your families,” Arevalo said. (Photos: VISCO
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