9 ‘NPA leaders’ surrender in Bukidnon

MANILA, Philippines — Nine alleged ranking leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to authorities in Valencia, Bukidnon, the military reported yesterday.

Reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo identified the surrenderees as Marlon Ampoan, 21; Warren Balanse, 30; Nelbert Binungkasan, 26; Mary Jean Cololot, 28; Raquel Dahoyla, 41; Daniel Layanan, 23; Joen Morales, 30; Walisa Tinampakan, 28, and Rey Unabia, 25.

The surrenderees turned over six firearms, according to Maj. Francisco Garello Jr., public affairs office chief of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division.

Family pressure reportedly compelled the nine rebels to surrender on Sept. 8.