'This surrender represents another victory in Northern Samar’s fight against insurgency'
NINE NPA guerrilla fighters surrendered to the 19IB citing hardship and lack of support from the community. They also turned over to the military the firearms issued to them by the CPP-NPA.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF 8ID
TACLOBAN CITY — Nine members of the communist New People’s Army surrendered to government forces amid Philippine Army’s heightened military operations to quell insurgency in Eastern Visayas.
The 8th Infantry Division said the nine communist guerrillas, who were members of the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit, SRC Emporium, surrendered to the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) on 13 February 2025.
The former rebels cited among reasons for their surrender the severe hunger and the loss of community support to insurgents in the recent years. They said that they are seeking better life after years in the communist movement which had resulted to disillusionment among the guerrilla fighters.
The surrenderees, identified by their aliases Amboy, Jhonry, Lenlen, Adi, Bobby, Ostoy, Boy, Nap and Yutot, personally appeared at the 19th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Opong, Catubig, Northern Samar.
The former rebels brought along with them their NPA-issued firearms consisting of one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two improvised M14 rifles, one carbine rifle, an anti-personnel mine, and two bandoliers which they turned over to the military.
Lt. Col. Marvin A. Maraggun, commander of the 19IB, says the surrender highlights the dedication of security forces and local government units in ensuring peace and prosperity in Northern Samar.
“These individuals made the courageous decision to reject violence and embrace a future where they can contribute positively to their communities,” Maraggun said.
“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, says the government is ready to help those rebels who wants to choose a peaceful life.
“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 your new opportunities,” Orio said.
He also commended the 19IB for its dedicated efforts and for successfully facilitating the reintegration of the former rebels.
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