NPA releases captive soldier to Duterte

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines – A soldier seized by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels last week was released to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday.

Pvt. First Class Eduardo Hilaga Jr. was turned over to Duterte in Tulunan, North Cotabato in the presence of local officials.

Rebels seized Hilaga as he was driving his motorcycle on his way to the headquarters of the 7th Infantry Battalion.

Five policemen in Paquibato district in Davao City taken captive by NPA rebels two weeks ago were also released to Duterte on Monday.

The policemen were identified as Chief Inspector Leonardo Tarongoy, chief of the Paquibato police station; Police Officers 3 Rosenie Cabuenas, Rudolf Paceta and Abdul Aziz Ali; and PO2 Neil Arellano.