‘Friends rescued’ in Caraga pledge allegiance to the government
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Former insurgents, known locally as friends rescued (FRs), took center stage during the visit of Police Lieutenant General (PLTGEN ) Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), to Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13), marking a significant milestone in the national government’s peace and reintegration agenda.
Some 50 FRs from different areas in the Caraga region withdrew their support from armed groups, surrendered firearms and ammunition, and took their oath of allegiance to the government on January 22. They also signed a manifesto of withdrawal of support, affirming their commitment to reintegration and peaceful living in their communities.
“I want to live peacefully with my family. Gikapoy nako sige ug gyera. Mobalik nako ug motabang sa gobyerno,” said one FR during the ceremony, expressing both relief and resolve to support lawful community development initiatives.
PLTGEN Nartatez, assisted by Police Brigadier General Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV, regional director of PRO-13, and Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago B. Cane, led the provision of government assistance to the FRs, underscoring the whole-of-nation approach to reconciliation, livelihood support, and community-based peacebuilding.
“The surrender and reintegration of the Friends Rescued demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local governments, and communities,” PLTGEN Nartatez said. “It is encouraging to see former adversaries now working with the government to build peace, security, and development.”
Governor Cane highlighted that the FRs’ return contributes directly to strengthening peace in his province. “Your decision to return to the fold of the government is a step toward lasting peace,” he told the FRs. “Agusan del Sur stands ready to help you rebuild your lives and will support your reintegration into society.”
Agusan del Sur is now insurgency-free and already 80 percent prepared to host the Palarong Pambansa in May 2026, expected to draw around 20,000 athletes, officials, and delegates nationwide, said Gov. Cane.
PLTGEN Nartatez, during his visit, also led the blessing and turnover of newly constructed roofed pedestrian walkways at the PRO-13 administrative building extension and the Command Center, aimed at enhancing accessibility, safety, and operational efficiency within the police facility.
The event underscored how the reintegration of former rebels in Caraga supports national peace efforts, strengthens community resilience, and demonstrates tangible outcomes of coordinated government initiatives in security and development. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
