Three regular members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to the Army's 29th Infantry Battalion at their headquarters in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte On November 11, 2024.
Their decision to return to the government was driven by severe food shortages and a significant loss of leadership within the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
The individuals, identified by their aliases as Desna/Ola, Daryl, and Joshua, brought with them firearms, including a Colt Caliber .45 and a Cal.9mm Ingram M11 Sub Machine Gun.
Their statements reflected the hardships they faced in the mountains, where dwindling supplies and inadequate support from their organization prompted them to reconsider their choices.
Also they expressed a strong desire to reunite with their families and pursue a peaceful life away from armed conflict.
Acting Commanding Officer of the 29IB Lt. Colonel Mark S. Tabon welcomed the surrender and reassured those still involved with the NPA.
“You will not be harmed or hurt here because we are all Filipinos. We do not want to harm fellow citizens," said Tabon.
He urged others in the mountains to come down and take advantage of the ongoing Amnesty program, which is available until 2025.
Lt. Col. Tabon’s call to action is particularly poignant as the holiday season approaches.
He encouraged those still in the insurgency to reunite with their families and celebrate Christmas together, highlighting the importance of family and community during this time.
The surrender of these three individuals is part of a broader initiative aimed at encouraging more members of the NPA to return to civilian life, said Tabon.
The military's outreach efforts, including appeals for assistance from community members, are intended to create a supportive environment for those seeking to leave the armed struggle.
The local government and military forces continue to promote peace and reconciliation in the region, hoping that more insurgents will follow the lead of Desna/Ola, Daryl, and Joshua.
According to Tabon, their return to the fold of the law underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the NPA and the realities that drive individuals to seek a different path.
