MANTICAO, Misamis Oriental (PIA)--The Local Government of Manticao, in partnership with the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade and 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, held a ceremonial peaceful surrender of two Communist Terrorist Group-New People’s Army (CTG-NPA) members and the turnover of firearms in Barangay Poblacion, June 8.

Elizabeth Buna, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Manticao Municipal Local Government Operations Officer, welcomed the two rebels and assured them that their office is ready to assist in their reintegration through various government assistance packages, such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Through the ECLIP, the two rebels will receive a financial package covering their immediate needs, a provision for reintegration processes, starting capital for livelihood, and remuneration for their surrendered firearms.

The two CTG-NPA members surrendered their two M16 rifles alongside six short magazine steel, sixty-seven live rounds of ammo, and two bandoleers. The 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion has started preparing documentation and an initial interview for their inclusion in the government’s ECLIP.

Meanwhile, Manticao Mayor Stephen Tan gave out cash assistance, two sacks of rice, and grocery items to the peaceful surrenderers as immediate assistance. The peaceful surrender of the two CTG-NPA members is the first of its kind in Manticao.

"Ayaw namin na makabaril ng kapwa Pilipino, nandito ang gobyerno upang tulungan kayo na magbagong buhay, hindi pa huli ang lahat upang magkaroon ng matuwid at masaganang buhay," 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Anthon Abrina said.

(We do not want to shoot fellow Filipinos, the government is here to help you live a new life, it is not too late to have a righteous and prosperous life). (VPSB/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)