Nine former members of a communist rebel group have surrendered to authorities and turned over their firearms in Northern Samar province, military officials said.

The former rebels were formally presented before the Las Navas Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict at the municipal hall on 6 July. During the ceremony, they surrendered several firearms to symbolize their departure from the armed movement.

Las Navas Mayor John Philbert S. Tan, who also chairs the local peace task force, welcomed the group and pledged local government support for their reintegration.

Tan said the surrendered individuals will receive government assistance packages, including financial aid and sustainable livelihood opportunities, to help them rebuild their lives.

Initial military debriefings revealed that prolonged physical hardship, dwindling food supplies, and declining morale within the armed movement were the primary factors that prompted the group to surrender.

The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division credited the surrenders to ongoing collaboration among the military, local government units, and law enforcement agencies under a synchronized national counterinsurgency framework.

“Their decision reflects courage, hope, and a desire to build a better future for themselves and their families,” the 8th Infantry Division said in a statement.

“We assure them that the government remains committed to supporting their reintegration through programs that promote healing, livelihood and lasting peace,” it added.