By NITZ ARANCONCorrespondent
THE New People’s Army on Tuesday freed the soldier rebels took as a captive when they raided a security agency in Valencia City, Bukidnon early this month.
Army T/Sgt. Joseph Paredes was released to Valencia Mayor Azucena Huevas in Barangay Catumbalon, Valencia at around 9:30 pm on Tuesday, said Capt. Norman Tagros, civil-military officer of the 403rd Brigade.
Paredes, a member of the 8th Infantry Battalion, was seized by NPA rebels at a roadblock they set up near the office of a Davao-based security agency in Valencia in May 5.
Mayor Huervas subsequently handed Paredes over to the Valencia City Police Station. The soldier later reunited with his family.
Tagros said Paredes was subjected to a medical examination.
Col. Eric Vinoya, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, claimed the NPA was pressured to free Paredes because of soldiers fielded to carry out military operations.