Surigaonons continue to cry for justice, denounce NPA violence

By 1Lt. Edmar C. Colagong

Some 80 residents of Brgy. Ima, Sison, Surigao del Norte staged an indignation rally on September 21, 2020 to denounce all forms of violence and terrorism perpetrated by the Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs).

The indignation rally was a manifestation of the residents’ sincere desire to support the government in its campaign to put an end to the local communist armed conflict and to demand justice for the death of PSSg. Restie Dandan who was ruthlessly murdered by the CNTs of Guerilla Front 16 under Rolando Leyson Jr. alias Edroy on August 18, 2020. It can be recalled that Mayor Karissa R. Fetalvero-Paronia of the municipality of Sison gave her strongest statement of condemnation against the CNTs who have shown great disrespect for human life.

“It is truly heart-wrenching to lose a fellow who fought with us to achieve peace. I know that people are anxious 22 | Sept. 26 - Oct. 02, 2020 to know what happened to our brother in faith, PSsgt. Dandan,” said Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, commanding officer of the 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion (29IB),

He added he was surprised that people gained so much courage to conduct an indignation rally and denounce the evil works of the CNTs. “We feel reassured and certain of winning the war against violence and terrorism because we could now feel the unwavering support of the people.

Rest assured that we are here to continue to protect each of you and secure our beloved land against these heartless terrorists,” Lt. Col. Criste said. (CMO Officer, 29IB/PIA-Surigao del Norte)