Body of killed NPA rebel returned to family

The body of a New People’s Army (NPA) rebel who was killed in a recent encounter with the Philippine Army’s 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion (53IB) in Zamboanga Del Sur was returned to his family.

The killed rebel, identified as alias “Gogo,” was a member of NPA’s Main Regional Guerilla Unit (MRGU).

His body was returned to his family on September 23, 2020, in Barangay Sinaman, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte province.

Gogo’s father Ricardo said in a remorseful tone that he is condemning the NPA recruitment, saying he did not know his son joined the NPA terrorists’ armed struggle.

“What we only know is that he works in Manila after my wife, his mother died in 2016. We did not hear from him since 2017,” Ricardo said.

“We are poor, but I believe it is not a reason for him to join the NPA’s terroristic activities,” Ricardo added.

The 53rd IB has coordinated with Dumingag and Dipolog City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) for possible interventions to provide assistance for the family of Gogo.

Embalming and casket expenses were shouldered by the Dumingag MTF-ELCAC chaired by Dumingag Mayor Joan Abejuela while the burial and other expenses were handled by Dipolog City TF-ELCAC chaired by Dipolog City Mayor Darel Dexter Uy.

In a statement, 53IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera expressed his gratitude to both Municipal and City Task Forces.

“Our humanity and professionalism do not stop even after our enemy is dead. Even though they’re dead, we still pay them respect,” Lt. Col. Herrera said.

“The 53rd IB is grateful not just for the support of these TF-ELCAC chairpersons, but also for their warm hearts and kindness,” Lt. Col. Herrera added.

Gogo’s burial is scheduled on September 25, 2020, in Dipolog City.