Army rescues NPA ‘child warrior’ in Eastern Samar

BORONGAN CITY, Philippines – The Army’s 42nd Infantry Battalion (IB) rescued a 16-year-old “child warrior” who was abandoned by his comrades at Can-avid town in Eastern Samar.

Capt. Doonie Rey Diola, civil-military operations officer of the 42nd IB, said the minor, recruited by his relatives to join the New People’s Army (NPA), was endorsed to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for rehabilitation.

“This clearly shows that the communist terrorist group is continuously violating the International Humanitarian law, which prohibits the recruitment and use of children in hostilities,” said Col. Leonel Nicolas, commander of the 102nd IB.

Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina, 801st Infantry Brigade commander, lauded the efforts of the 42 IB, saying the NPA is now employing a desperate tactic to advance its violent cause.

Recovered from the minor was an M14 rifle, five magazines, 60 bullets and one bandolier.