Three activists denounce support for militant farmers group

Three activists have withdrawn their support for a militant farmer’s group during a denouncement ceremony at Barangay Carmen in the town of Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija on 23 October 2025.

According to Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) Director Police Col. Heryl “Daguit” Bruno, the three female activists surrendered to joint elements of the 1st PMFC (lead unit), Licab PS, Quezon PS, Zaragoza PS, Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and Regional Intelligence Unit 3 (RIU3).

The group conducted a special intelligence operation in Barangay Carmen, Zaragoza, which facilitated the withdrawal of support of the three activists, all residents of Barangay San Jose, Licab.

The trio were members of Damayan ng Mamamayan para sa Kaapihan at Kahirapan (DAMAKKA), under the Alyansa ng Magbubukid ng Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) – Nueva Ecija Chapter. They were reportedly recruited by Ignacio Ortiz in 2017.

As part of their reintegration process, the returnees received food packs and other immediate assistance from the operating units. They are now undergoing debriefing and documentation under the supervision of the 1st PMFC to ensure proper reintegration into mainstream society.