TWO NEW People’s Army (NPA) members who previously operated in Caraga surrendered to the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division under Eastern Mindanao Command in Baguio City on Oct. 12, 2025, bringing with them two high-powered firearms.
The surrenderers, residents of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, and Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, were both members of Squad 3, RSDG of the NPA’s Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
The surrender was facilitated through the joint intelligence efforts of the 75th Infantry Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Battalion, 10th Intelligence Service Unit, 513th Engineer Construction Battalion, and the Regional Intelligence Unit 13 of the Philippine National Police.
They also turned over two M16 rifles, both in serviceable condition.
The two cited as reasons their disillusionment with the group, fear for their safety, and a desire to return to a peaceful life.
Lt. Col. Earl C. Pardillo, commanding officer of the 75IB, said the surrender was a direct result of intensified joint operations and his unit’s continuous community engagement in Caraga Region.
“Through persistent combat operations, intelligence-driven targeting, and genuine efforts to reach out to communities vulnerable to NPA influence, we have significantly weakened the operational capability and morale of the remaining NPA members,” he added.
The 75IB is also facilitating the enrollment of the surrenderers in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) to avail themselves of financial assistance and livelihood benefits.
