9 NPA members surrender in Northern Samar

Nine members of the New People's Army (NPA) surrendered to government forces in Northern Samar on February 13, citing hunger, hardship, and dwindling community support as reasons for abandoning the armed struggle.

The former rebels handed over six firearms including one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two improvised M14 rifles, and one carbine rifle, along with an anti-personnel mine and two bandoliers to the Philippine Army's 19th Infantry Battalion (19 IB) headquarters in Barangay Opong, Catubig town.

Lt. Col. Marvin Maraggun, commander of the 19 IB, praised the former rebels for choosing peace and assured them of government support through reintegration programs.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, reiterated the government's commitment to helping former rebels transition into peaceful lives with immediate financial assistance and enrollment in the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) and Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Local government units are working closely with the Philippine Army to support these individuals as they transition back into society.

Former rebels will receive debriefing, healing, and reconciliation sessions to facilitate their reintegration into mainstream society.