TACLOBAN CITY — Four communist guerrillas have surrendered to military forces during joint operations across Eastern and Northern Samar, further diminishing the remaining ranks of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the region, military officials said Friday.

The 8th Infantry Division identified the former fighters by their aliases — Junjun, Yana, Tanggol and Digma — adding that they were members of the Sub-Regional Committee ARCTIC under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

Military officials reported that fatigue, hunger, constant movement, prolonged separation from relatives, and a lack of community support prompted the rebels to give up their weapons.

The surrenders occurred during targeted operations in Borongan City, Eastern Samar, as well as the municipalities of Palapag and Catubig in Northern Samar.

Following their surrender, the former combatants led soldiers to two arms caches. Authorities recovered four M16 rifles and two M14 rifles from the hidden locations.

Military representatives stated that the loss of active members strips the underground movement of essential manpower, operational capability, and experienced leadership.

The 8th Infantry Division credited the families of the fighters for persuading them to abandon the armed struggle and return to civilian life.