After yielding in November 2023, some 27 rebel returnees recently received love and support from the Himamaylan City government together with the Philippine Army through financial and educational assistance on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
The aid beneficiaries are New People’s Army (NPA) fighters and some of its Yunit Militia members who pledged allegiance to the Philippine government on Nov. 17, 2023, a press release said Thursday, February 23.
“This assistance from the city government will help the former rebels return to their communities,” Mayor Raymund Tongson said.
Tongson also joins the leaders of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) in calling on the remaining communist rebels in Negros Island to surrender.
“The 27 returnees who received these benefits from the government is a sign that the Himamaylan City LGU is ready to assist in their path to reintegration,” Tongson said.
On top the financial assistance, the City Social Welfare and Development Office also prepared some groceries and goods for the rebel returnees.*