A TOTAL of 189 former communist rebels surrendered to authorities in Quezon, Bukidon on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, which government officials said was a crucial step toward declaring the entire municipality as insurgency-free.
The mass surrender took place in Barangay Butong, where the former rebels, which included 44 from the Militiang Bayan and four from so-called “white areas,” took their oath of allegiance and turned over 72 firearms, including both high-powered and low-powered weapons.
According to Lt. Col. Tony Bulao, commander of the 89th Infantry Battalion, the surrenderees hailed from various communities in Quezon, Valencia City, San Fernando, and Kitaotao. He emphasized that the event marked a “crucial step” towards the municipality of Quezon being officially declared free from the influence of communist terrorist groups.
Senator Miguel Zubiri, who served as the guest of honor, pledged the government’s full support for the former rebels, who are referred to by the military as “friends rescued.”
In his message, Zubiri announced that his office would provide scholarships from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, as well as inclusion in other government aid programs TUPAD and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).
“I am so happy on this day because we were able to help our rebel returnees,” Zubiri said, noting that they had also provided immediate assistance, including rice, canned goods, and financial aid of P5,000 from the Department of Social Welfare and Development for each individual.
Major General Allan Hambala, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, welcomed the former rebels and assured them of the military’s support in their transition.
“Your struggle is not over because you have surrendered; it has stopped because you have realized that the path you were on was not the right one to achieve progress and peace,” Hambala said.
The event also featured powerful testimonies from the former rebels themselves.
Datu Santi, who was part of the movement from 2012 to 2017, expressed gratitude for his new lease on life.
“I thank God that we, former NPA, are still being taught the law. My life before was difficult; I was not able to go home. The loneliness was there. Now that I am with the government, I can be with my family,” he shared, urging remaining rebels to abandon the movement.
Maricel Coleta, another surrenderee, recounted her experience, saying that while it was initially enjoyable, it was eventually replaced by “loneliness for family, hunger, and hardship.” She thanked the government for giving them a chance to start over.
The ceremony was attended by 1003rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Marion Ancao, local government representatives, and other military and police officials.
