4 ex-rebels yield in Bataan, Pampanga

Four former members of communist-linked rebel groups, including three armed individuals, surrendered separately to police authorities in Bataan and Pampanga over the weekend, citing their desire to return to civilian life.

Bataan Police Provincial Office (PPO) chief Col. Marites A. Salvadora reported to PRO3 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr. that three former New People’s Army (NPA) members yielded to her office on Saturday, turning over firearms and an explosive device.

Two of the surrenderers, former members of the Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Bataan (ALMABA), returned to authorities in Abucay, Bataan, bringing an improvised shotgun and live ammunition. They were received by personnel of the Abucay Municipal Police Station under Major John Rhey Cutab and the 1st Mobile Force Company.

The third surrenderee, a 67-year-old former member of HUKBALAHAP, surrendered in Limay, Bataan, bringing with him a .38 revolver, two live rounds, a 40mm explosive, detonating cord, and an E-match.

“This act serves as a strong testament to their full renunciation of support for the CPP-NPA-NDF,” Salvadora said. “The Bataan PNP supports their decision to choose peace and is committed to their rehabilitation and reintegration.”

She encouraged other former rebels to avail themselves of government programs offering a path toward a better life, adding, “The doors to reconciliation are open.”

Meanwhile, in Macabebe, Pampanga, another former rebel surrendered to authorities on 19 July, according to the Pampanga PPO.

The 62-year-old, previously affiliated with the Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon- Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (AMGL-KMP), voluntarily withdrew his support from the group.

The surrender was facilitated by the Pampanga 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), along with Macabebe and Masantol police. The individual, now under police custody for documentation and interview, received financial aid and food packs as part of the government’s reintegration program.

Authorities emphasized that these surrenders reflect the continued efforts of the PNP in Central Luzon to promote peace, encourage voluntary disengagement from radical groups, and uphold public safety.