Tarlac rebels wave white flag

Baler, Aurora — Authorities reported on Sunday that two former rebels voluntarily surrendered in Tarlac last 31 January 2025.

According to the Police Regional Office 3, this development highlights the growing effectiveness of government efforts to restore peace and stability in Central Luzon.

The successful surrender was coordinated through the 304th Mobile Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3, Mayantoc Municipal Police Station (MPS), Tarlac Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the 71st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

One of the surrenderees, known as “Ka Ganneng” was previously affiliated with Komite sa Larangang Gerilya 1 and the People’s Organizing Committee.

Listed in the 2006 Periodic Status Report (PSR), he turned himself in at the 304th MC headquarters in Barangay San Jose, Mayantoc, Tarlac, surrendering a homemade .22 Magnum caliber firearm, a magazine, seven rounds of ammunition, and an MK2 high-explosive hand grenade.

Meanwhile, “Ka Junnie,” formerly part of KLG-TARZAM, also surrendered at the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company Headquarters in Barangay Malacampa, Camiling, Tarlac.

A former cultural group member linked to insurgent activities, he handed over a .22 long firearm without a serial number, which he claimed was supplied by his late commander, Neptali Santos, alias “Ka Atong.”

PRO3 regional director Police Brigadier General Jean S. Fajardo lauded the surrender as a major step toward peace and reconciliation.

As part of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, both former rebels will receive assistance to help them reintegrate into mainstream society.