Casiguran, Aurora – Over 90 Former Rebels and various sectoral organization members participated in the Peace Rally of Bataris and pledged support to government at Brgy. Cozo, Casiguran Aurora on August 15, 2020.
This activity educated conflict-affected communities on the government’s peace and development efforts towards ending the insurgency. Barangay Cozo is one of the gateways in the recruitment, sightings, and passage of CPP-NPA terrorists along other near barangays.
Before the activity started, SB Jordan dela Cruz contested that “SIKAP” is not affiliated to any rebel group.
“Dati po akong FR at nag-oath na po ako noong 2009. Para sa kaalaman ng lahat, nakarehistro din po sa DOLE ang aming grupo. Makikisangkot po kami kaya gusto naming maklaro sa lahat na ang SIKAP ay walang ugnayan sa kabilang grupo.” SB dela Cruz said.
On the other hand, 1Lt Bobby A. Ferrer, Bravo Coy Commander, 91IB, 7ID, PA clarified that due to lack of documentary proof, his oath last 2009 is considered invalid. 1Lt Ferrer says, “Kaya dapat lang po na makilahok ulit tayo ngayon para maidokumento natin ng kumpleto ito.”
Present in the said activity were support agencies from DILG thru MLGOO Jesus L. Vizconde, Jr., Philippine Army headed by LTC Reandrew Rubio, Commanding Officer, 91IB, 7ID, PCPT Ricky J Rabor, Chief of Police, Casiguran MPS and PLT Nestor Romano, Jr., of 2nd Aurora Provincial Mobile Force Company, Mr. John Roxas, LGU Representative, and Barangay Officials of Cozo, Casiguran, Aurora.
MLGOO Vizconde reminds the body on Republic Act 10168 also known as the “Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012”, prohibiting any political, moral and financial support to the communist rebel.
“Tulungan nyo kami natulungan kayo. Ang aking hiling po ay magkaroon tayo ng malasakit sa isa’t-isa” he added.
