TACLOBAN CITY – Three active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Samar province surrendered to government forces on April 11, 2025, seeking a fresh start and a peaceful life with their family.
They voluntarily turned themselves in to the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) and the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) in Matuguinao, headed by Mayor Aran Boller.
The former rebels include alias ‘Ben,’ his son, and daughter-in-law.
“(They) left because they believed there was no future here. But now they see that a peaceful life is possible,” Ben’s wife, who facilitated their surrender, said.
“Every time I heard of an encounter, my heart would sink. I didn’t know if they were alive or dead,” she added, describing the anxiety that finally drove her to act.
On the night of April 11, the three came down from the mountains and were warmly received by 19IB troops.
‘Lucille’, the daughter-in-law who went by the alias “Osang” in the underground movement, shared that life in the armed struggle was far from ideal.
“There were days when we had nothing to eat but dried root crops. We walked constantly, always hiding, always running,” she recounted.
Now back in the fold of the law, the rehabilitated rebels will receive support under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which includes psychosocial services, livelihood training, and financial assistance. The MTF-ELCAC in Matuguinao will also extend further help to ensure their reintegration into society.
“To those still in the mountains—we’ve lived that life. Ask yourselves what you’re still fighting for. Life is here, with your family, and the government is ready to help,” Ben, in his appeal to remaining NPA members, said.
Lieutenant Colonel Ricky James Rosalejos, commanding officer of the 19th IB, commended the three for their courage to return to civilian life.
“This surrender is a testament to how peace can begin at home. When families step in and communities support them, healing becomes possible,” he said.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
