THE New People’s Army (NPA) in Agusan del Norte experienced another blow yesterday, as one member surrendered to the 23rd Infantry Battalion, Operational Control unit of the 402nd Infantry Brigade.
The defector disclosed the whereabouts of six high-powered firearms at H23IB, Jamboree Site, P-6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
In recent weeks, a series of armed confrontations sparked between the 23IB and remnants of Platoon 2, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG), Sagay, Sub-Regional Committee 3 (SRC-3) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
These engagements resulted in the neutralization of 10 NPA fighters, along with the confiscation of high-powered firearms and personal belongings.
“Many NPA members are heeding the call for lasting and genuine peace, weakening the NPA organization further,” Brigadier Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, said.
After more than two weeks, another NPA member, identified as Jerome Amparo Marapao alias ‘Mark’ and serving as a medic for Platoon 2, SRSDG, surrendered to the 23IB.
He disclosed the concealed location of the firearms in Sitio Malambago, Barangay Sangay, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Subsequent operations led to the recovery of six AK47 Rifles, one cal. 45 pistol, and other war materiel.
Alias ‘Mark,’ reflecting on his experiences, cited immense hardships and an endless cycle of sacrifices. He acknowledged a misalignment between the ideology he once embraced and the pursuit of genuine progress and unity.
This surrender underscores the success of focused military operations by the 402Bde and 23IB against the diminishing forces of local insurgents in Agusan del Norte.
“The 402nd Infantry Brigade remains committed to intensifying operations, tracking, and pursuing remaining communist rebels in Agusan del Norte and our broader Area of Responsibility. We urge individuals to abandon armed struggle, rebuild their families, and live happily and fearlessly,” Orio said. (4ID)
