Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered separately in North Cotabato and Sarangani provinces, stating their desire to live normal lives. One fighter, identified as “Pilo,” surrendered in Nasapian village, Carmen town, North Cotabato, bringing with him an M16 rifle and one magazine loaded with ten rounds of ammunition. The other rebel, known only as “Takla,” surrendered in Maasim, Sarangani, turning over an M16 rifle with bullets. Both will be enrolled under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program to help them start new lives. Since January, the number of communist rebels who have surrendered in the army’s area of responsibility has reached 15, with ten NPA members killed in encounters and five others arrested during the period.
