GOVERNMENT troops in Caraga are urging remaining New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to surrender following the deaths of three high-ranking officials in two separate clashes with soldiers on February 12.

Col. Emil Cruz, acting commander of the 401st Brigade based in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, called on NPA members to lay down their arms.

“I am hoping na sana mag surrender na, to avoid bloodshed,” Cruz told Gold Star Daily.

YIELD. Col. Emil J. Cruz, acting brigade commander of the 401st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, speaks during a press briefing, urging remaining New People’s Army rebels to surrender following recent clashes in Caraga. Photo courtesy of 401st Brigade

The military reported two encounters that day — one in Sitio Tagulahi, Barangay Pianing, Butuan City, where Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, secretary of the NPA's North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), was killed.

Another clash in Sitio Katipunan, Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, resulted in the deaths of Larry Garcia, alias Joven, commanding officer of the NEMRC’s Regional Sentro de Grabidad, and his deputy, known as Gaga or Garing.

Cruz said the government is prepared to assist those who surrender.

Maj. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division based here in Cagayan de Oro City, commended his troops for the operation and echoed the call for remaining rebels to surrender.