Failing to collect PTC fee, rebel surrenders

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao — Instead of returning to their lair empty-handed, a New People’s Army (NPA) commander instead gave himself up to authorities the other day after reportedly failing to collect a P1-million permit-to-campaign fee from North Cotabato Gov. Emmanuel Piñol.

Faced with possible sanctions from his superiors, Ramil Lascuna, 51, who belongs to the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 51, turned himself over to local police and military officials in Makilala, North Cotabato.

Military intelligence sources said Lascuna, who confessed his involvement in the NPA’s extortion activities in Makilala and surrounding towns, signed a statement pledging allegiance to the government.

Piñol, known for his hardline stand against communist and Moro separatist rebels, said he is ready to help provide Lascuna livelihood assistance so he can start a new life.

"While the provincial government uses an iron fist in dealing with rebel forces, it has open arms to those returning to the fold of law," he said. — John Unson