3 NPA rebels died of hunger, found in shallow grave

CAMP Melchor F. dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela – The bodies of three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who died of hunger were found buried in a shallow grave in Barangay Canadam, Maconacon, this province, Sunday.

The bodies were identified as that of alias “Marco,” alias “Lucia,” and alias “Jero.”

The remains of marco, a member of Squad Dos, were buried last May 24, based on the date written in a stone marking his grave.

Lucia and Jero’s bodies were crudely interred last June.

The 95th Infantry Battalion unearthed their remains following information from former communist guerrillas.

The remains were covered with a hammock and buried about one foot below the ground.

The Army said that the three are all members of the weakened Komiteng Probinsya Isabela, Komiteng Rehiyon-cagayan Valley.

According to Lt. Col. Carlos B. Sangdaan Jr., 95th IB commander, they died because of starvation and buried that way as pursuing soldiers were hot on their heels.