Ex-NPA courier surrenders firearms, hailed as peace gain

A former New People’s Army (NPA) member who served as a courier for high-ranking leaders of a dismantled rebel group has voluntarily surrendered three firearms to military authorities on 28 January, a move cited as a significant gain for peace efforts in Luzon, according to Joint Task Group (JTG) 7-2.

JTG 7-2 commander Brig. Gen. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, PA, said the individual previously worked with Jordan Mopon, alias “Boyong,” former commanding officer of the dismantled Komiteng Larangan Gerilya (DKLG) Narciso, and Benny Doroteo, alias “Shahu,” its former infantry leader.

The items surrendered included an M1 Carbine with ammunition and magazine, an improvised shotgun, and a 12-gauge slug—all previously used by elements of the Dismantled Komiteng Rehiyong Gerilya ng Luzon (DKRGL) and DKLG Narciso.

Lt. Col. Marco Antonio A. Magisa, PA, commanding officer of the 80th Infantry Battalion, formally received the firearms, with the handover subsequently reported to Osias.

“This act shows the courage it takes to turn away from violence and embrace a lawful life,” Osias said in a statement. “Our Army is fully committed to supporting those who choose reintegration, giving them the chance to build better futures for themselves and their communities.”

The surrender underscores the effectiveness of military initiatives aimed at encouraging armed group members to disengage from conflict, the task group said.

JTG 7-2 also called on individuals with information on insurgent weapons or contraband to come forward and participate in surrender programs, as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and foster lasting peace across the region.