Yano: AFP winning war vs. NPA rebels

CEBU - “We are on the road to winning this war.”

This was the assurance given by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, Gen. Alexander Yano during the celebration of the 7th foundation anniversary of the Central Command yesterday.

Yano said that over the years, the AFP has strengthened its campaign against rebel groups in different parts of the country.

Guimaras, Siquijor and Biliran have been confirmed by Yano as cleared of any threat by the New People’s Army.

As a pact, CentCom through its commander Lt. Gen. Pedro “Ike” Inserto and three governors of these provinces entered into a Memorandum of Agreement turning over the Internal Security Operations responsibility of the three provinces in the Visayas to the local government units so military units can concentrate in other areas.

Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina, who was there during the MOA signing, said that they would have not obtained this without the support of the military and local government officials of Biliran.

Yano reported 147 former rebel members have been neutralized and 134 firearms recovered through the implementation of “Balik Baril Program.” Also, 176 barangays was cleared of NPA presence through the “Kalinaw Visayas II” program.

Yesterday’s event started with a parade around Camp Lapu-Lapu. This was followed by a Mass, Yano’s arrival honors, a wreath laying at CentCom memorial and the blessing of new vehicles.

CentCom also awarded 17 soldiers and civilians from different fields. These included Nonito Cabarles being the outstanding Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit in CentCom for gallantry beyond the call of duty, William Medici of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office for the Visayas and Mindanao, and The FREEMAN managing editor Nimrod NL Quiñones.

And the program ended yesterday night with the band performances. Team 53 of the 53rd Engineer Brigade, I-Brigade of CentCom, 78IB Band of the 78th Infantry Battalion and 560th Airbase Wing Band of the Philippine Air Force entertained CentCom personnel and invited guests. —/BRP (THE FREEMAN)