The New People’s Army frees Senior Police Officer 2 George Canete Rupinta in Maco town, Compostela Valley on Friday, September 15. (Mick M. Basa/davaotoday.com)
COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, Philippines— The New People’s Army freed on Friday, September 15 a police officer held captive for more than three months.
Senior Police Officer 2 George Canete Rupinta was released by the NPAs in Maco town, Compostela Valley to his family and the Exodus for Justice in Peace, an organization which acted as a third party facilitator around 12 noon.
Rupinta, who has been a police officer for 28 years, was taken as a “prisoner of war” by the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 18 and 6th Pulang Bagani Company on June 9 in Barangay Tagugpo, Lupon, Davao Oriental.
In a previous statement, the NPA said he was placed under investigation for his “anti-people activities in Lupon.”
Rupinta’s release also came after two months since he appealed to the government to ensure his safe release through a video released by the NPAs on July 13.
Rupinta, in the video, called on the military to cease operations while the security for his release was being arranged.
He also called on the government and the National Democratic Front to resume peace negotiations.
“I appeal for the parties to return to the table to give way to the long-sought peace that every one desires,” Rupinta said two months ago.
Mrs. Rupinta said the 52-year-old police officer has been suffering from an enlarged heart and arthritis and has been undergoing medication. His family had worried about his medical condition since his arrest.(davaotoday.com)
