FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army Major General Andrew D. Costelo PA welcomed the surrender of a 37-year old former member of the dismantled Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla – Sierra Madre (KLG-SM) in Brgy. Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora on January 17, 2022.
The personality was identified as Berboy Calara Aviendo alias “JR/Oscar/Joey” who surrendered to the combined elements of 91st Infantry (SINAGTALA) Battalion, Philippine Army led by LTC Reandre P. Rubio together with the troops from 86th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Baler Municipal Police Station and 1PMFC of Aurora Police Provincial Office.
The next day, January 18, he surrendered one (1) M14 rifle; one (1) magazine for M14 and nine (9) rounds of ammunition for M14.
It can be remembered that on Friday, January 14, a certain Ronie Cortel, also a member of KLG-SM surrendered along with cal. 9mm pistol with seven (7) ammunition and one (1) hand grenade to the 91IB and PNP in Nueva Ecija.
Record shows that as of this date, the Command has neutralised 60 members and top ranking officers of the dismantled KLG-SM in its AOR.
Colonel Joseph Norwin Pasamonte, Commander of the 703rd Infantry (AGILA) Brigade, Philippine Army also welcomed the surrender of Aviendo and cited the effective implementation of the E.O 70 in the conflict-affected communities through the efforts of JTRF-ELCAC and active support of the community.
Meanwhile, Major General Costelo said that dismantling of the KLG-SM in Aurora is vital in the influx of voluntary surrenders of its members citing the unwavering trust of the public in the programs of the government for Former Rebels even before the dismantling of the NPA unit last year.
“We welcome the surrender of Aviendo and we also hope that his courage will inspire those other members that are hesitant to present themselves to the authorities. We also thank the RTF-ELCAC for their efforts in calling the members of the dismantled KLG-SM to surrender and encourage them to be part in pursuing peace and development advocacy of the government,” said MGen Costelo.
