IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay - The Army's 97th Infantry (Kalasaglahi) Battalion and 53rd Infantry (Matapat) Battalion discovered the abandoned cadaver of a Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) in Barangay Macalibre, Sergio Osmeña Sr, Zamboanga del Norte, Saturday morning, December 4, 2021. 

The troops received reports from concerned citizens that a dead body was found in a crop storage at the said barangay, that was immediately acted upon by the authorities. 

"We have initially identified the cadaver as Daisy Jane Simafranca alias Racquel/Miggy, as identified by our former rebels" said Lt. Col. Nolasco Coderos Jr, Commanding Officer, 97IB. 

It can be recalled that series of encounters transpired last December 1 and 3 between the combined elements of the 97th Infantry (Kalasaglahi) Battalion and 42nd Infantry (Tagapagtanggol) Battalion against the Guerilla Front BBC of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee. 

"We believe that alias Racquel was wounded during one of those encounters, and instead of rendering immediate medical attention, she was left behind by the CTG for she will be a burden as she will slow down their escape from pursuing government troops," said Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas, Commander, 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade. 

The cadaver is now being transported to the the Rural Health Unit of Sergio Osmeña Sr for post mortem services prior to endorsement to nearest kin. 

"This is a clear manifestation of how the Communist Terrorist Groups have total disrespect to the basic human rights of their members and that they even don't have the decency to give those who perished a proper burial," Brig. Gen. Nicolas added. 

The Army will be coordinating to the local government unit for the possible assistance in providing a decent burial to Simafranca. 

"We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Daisy Jane for her untimely death and for falling victim to the exploitation and deception of the CTGs," Brig. Gen. Nicolas expressed. 

"The doors of our Army units on the ground remains open for those who wish to surrender and return to the folds of law," Brig. Gen. Nicolas ended. 

Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, qualified former rebels are entitled for a total Php65,000.00 comprising of the immediate cash and livelihood assistance from the Department of Interior and Local Government. (RVC/EDT/PIA9-Zamboanga del Norte/with reports from 102nd Infantry Brigade, PA)