After six long years, the remains of a missing government militia member who was reportedly abducted by the New People’s Army (NPA) have finally been recovered, bringing closure to his family’s years of uncertainty.
Authorities confirmed that the skeletal remains were discovered in an undisclosed location in Mindanao following an intensive search and intelligence operation. The victim was identified through personal belongings and other evidence found at the site.
According to military reports, the militia member went missing in 2019 after being taken by armed rebels. Since then, security forces and the victim’s family had been searching for any trace of him, hoping he was still alive.
Officials said the discovery underscores the continuing risks faced by state forces and their auxiliaries in areas where insurgent activity remains active. They also vowed to continue efforts to bring justice to the victim and hold those responsible accountable.
Meanwhile, the family expressed a mix of grief and relief upon learning of the recovery, saying that while their loved one is gone, they can finally lay him to rest properly.