25 members and sympathizers of rebel forces surrendered

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, April 15 -– Some 25 members and sympathizers of the rebel group movement Marxist-Leninist Party of the Philippines-Rebulosyonaryong Hukbong Bayan (MLPP-RHB) surrendered to the government, on Easter Sunday, police reported today.

Senior Supt. Rolando B. Felix, Zambales Police Provincial Office (ZPPO) director, in his report here, said the group members whose leaders were not yet identified, were all residents of remote villages of Babangcal, Pamibian and Taposo, all in Candelaria, Zambales.

Sr. Supt. Felix said, the group decided to return to the folds of law after experiencing hardships in the movement and upon learning that the Zambales provincial government under the leadership of Gov. Amor Deloso has renewed commitment on “rebel returnee” program.

He said the program of Gov. Deloso dubbed as “Pakikiisa Para Sa Kapayapaan Upang Umusad ang Pag-unlad ng Bayan” would enhance acceptance and return to the folds of the law all card bearing members of the rebel movement.

Felix said Deloso graced the formal surrender and oath-of-allegiance rites held at the Candelaria Central School.

The report said Deloso said the peace efforts by government in the province is aimed at encouraging various insurgents including their supporters to return to normal life and follow democratic processes, because it was only in a unified and peaceful community that Zambales could attain economic development and prosperity.

The governor also assured the surrenderors their papers will be processed as the basis for clearance for availing the Social Integration Program.

The surrender of the 25 rebels was recorded as the second largest number ever experienced in the province.

In 1981, the first “surrender event” occurred at Masinloc town where some 300 New People's Army members yielded their arms and rejoined society, the report said. (PNA) FFC/wi/ps/mec

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