PALO, Leyte – Two farmers who also acted as combatants of the New People’s Army voluntarily surrendered to law enforcers in Gandara, Samar, on 15 February 2026.

The surrenderers were identified by their aliases as “Alex,” a 21-year-old, and “RJ,” a 25-year-old. Both were farmers and members of Squad 3 under SRC-EMPORIUM, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, operating in the nearby Matuguinao town.

The surrender was facilitated by personnel of Gandara Municipal Police Station (MPS), through the joint efforts of the Regional Intelligence Unit 8 (RIU-8), the 33rd Special Action Company of the 3rd Special Action Battalion (PNP-SAF), the Samar Police Provincial Office Provincial Intelligence Unit (SPPO PIU), and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

The two former rebels also turned over one caliber .38 pistol that was issued to them by the communist movement.

P/Col Arwin Tadeo, provincial director of the Samar Police Provincial Office, said the two decided to surrender due to persuasion by their respective families.

Tadeo said the surrenderers will undergo proper processing and will be assisted in accessing available government reintegration programs to help them rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

“We welcome their decision to return to the folds of the law. SPPO remains committed to helping former NA members rebuild their lives and reunite with their families as we continue to work for lasting peace in Samar," Tadeo said.