3 ex-rebels abducted by suspected NPA members in Samar

Three peacebuilders were abducted by suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Motiong, Samar on May 27, the military said Friday.

According to the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division, the communist rebels abducted a certain Cosme Cabangunay and his two sons, Jevie and Jason.

The three were reportedly former rebels who surrendered to the authorities and are now working for peace as members of Motiong Peacebuilders, an organization of former rebels who are working for peace and development in their locality.

The military said Barangay Canvais chairperson Vilma Gabane was the one who reported the incident to authorities. She said more or less five armed men barged inside the victims’ house and forcibly took them at gunpoint.

Lieutenant Colonel Reynaldo Balido Jr., battalion commander of 87th Infantry Battalion, denounced the incident, describing it as a heinous crime that is against International Humanitarian Law.

"We vehemently condemn this barbaric act of the NPA terrorists. They have victimized non-combatants. They abducted people who are working for peace in the locality," Balido said.

The families of the victims are now appealing for the release of the former rebels.

Colonel Camilo Ligayo, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, is also demanding the unconditional and safe release of the victims. He vowed that the government forces would do everything to rescue the victims.

"It is with deep regret that the NPA terrorists have once again shown their evil ways by oppressing the ordinary people who want to live in peace. We assure the relatives that our soldiers will do everything necessary to pursue the perpetrators and bring them to justice," Ligayo said.

"To the communist NPA terrorists, the people of Motiong demand that you release the victims unharmed. You can embrace peace with us or face the fury and condemnation of the community as the government forces will relentlessly pursue you," he added. --Anna Felicia Bajo/KBK, GMA News