Nine members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered in Eastern Visayas, marking a step forward in the government’s ongoing efforts to address insurgency in the region.
The surrenderees, identified by their aliases Amboy, Jhonry, Lenlen, Adi, Bobby, Ostoy, Boy, Nap, and Yutot, were members of the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU), SRC Emporium. They presented themselves at the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) headquarters in Barangay Opong, Catubig, Northern Samar.
According to the former rebels, they decided to lay down their arms, abandon armed struggle, and return to the fold of the law due to severe hunger and dwindling community support. Years of hardship and disillusionment also motivated their decision to seek a better life.
The group surrendered one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two improvised M14 rifles, one carbine rifle, an anti-personnel mine, and two bandoliers.
Lt. Col. Marvin A. Maraggun, commander of the 19IB, emphasized that the surrender highlights the dedication of security forces and local government units to ensuring peace and prosperity in Northern Samar.
“We welcome them with open arms and stand ready to support their reintegration into society,” he added.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8ID, affirmed the government’s commitment to assisting rebels who choose a peaceful path.
“We will continue our efforts to bring peace, as we are all Filipinos. Our goal is to reintegrate you into the community and show you what the government has to offer: a better life and a peaceful environment. I hope this marks the beginning of new opportunities for you,” Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized.
He commended the 19IB for its dedicated efforts and for successfully facilitating the reintegration of the former rebels.
“This surrender represents another victory in Northern Samar’s fight against insurgency. The 19IB remains committed to ensuring peace, security, and development in the province,” Maj. Gen. Orio added.
The 19IB is coordinating with local government units to provide immediate cash assistance and other benefits to the surrenderees. They are also undergoing processing under the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Debriefing, healing, and reconciliation sessions are being conducted to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.