TWO REMNANTS of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFB) of the 4th Infantry Division on Feb. 21.
The military identified the surrenderers as alias Wowie/Doms and alias Marita. Both individuals are currently in the custody of the 1SFB for documentation, validation, and assessment to determine their eligibility for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Captain Bilver F. Butale, civil-military operations officer of the 1SFB, assured them of the unit’s full support throughout their reintegration into mainstream society.
Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, reiterated his call for remaining members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to abandon the armed struggle.
He emphasized that the military, in partnership with local government units and national agencies, will help former rebels rebuild their lives through livelihood support and reintegration programs.
In a statement, 4ID commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. noted that the surrender highlights the continuous decline of CTG influence.
He attributed this “crumbling” power to sustained military operations complemented by “whole-of-nation” interventions that address the root causes of insurgency.
Anayron added that the government remains steadfast in providing lawful and humane pathways for individuals to leave the armed struggle, reinforcing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ mission to secure lasting peace and development across the Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.
