TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) – Nine members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) surrendered to the government forces on Thursday, February 13, as a result of the Philippine Army’s relentless efforts to address insurgency problem in Eastern Visayas.
According to Capt. Jefferson Mariano, chief of the 8th Infantry Division’s (8ID) Public Affairs Office, the rebels, belonging to the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit, SRC Emporium, personally appeared at the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) headquarters in Barangay Opong, Catubig, Northern Samar.
The surrenderers were identified by their aliases – Amboy, Jhonry, Lenlen, Adi, Bobby, Ostoy, Boy, Nap, and Yutot.
The group turned over one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two improvised M14 rifles, one carbine rifle, an anti-personnel mine, and two bandoliers.
According to the former rebels, they decided to lay down their arms, abandon the armed struggle, and return to the fold of the law due to severe hunger and the loss of community support, adding that the years of hardship and disillusionment led them to seek a better life.
Lt. Col. Marvin A. Maraggun, commander of the 19IB, said their surrender highlights the dedication of security forces and local government units in ensuring peace and prosperity in Northern Samar.
“These individuals made the courageous decision to reject violence and embrace a future where they can contribute positively to their communities,” Lt. Col. Maraggun said, adding that they welcome them with open arms and ready to support their reintegration into society.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8ID, expressed that the government is ready to help those rebels who wants to choose a peaceful life.
“We will continue our efforts to bring peace, as we are all Filipinos. Our goal is to reintegrate you into the community and show you what the government has to offer, a better life and a peaceful environment. I hope this marks the beginning of your new opportunities,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.
He also commended the 19IB for its dedicated efforts and for facilitating the smooth reintegration of the former rebels into society who are now undergoing debriefing, healing, and reconciliation sessions.
“This surrender represents another victory in Northern Samar’s fight against insurgency. The 19IB remains committed to ensuring peace, security, and development in the province,” Orio added.
Meanwhile, the 19IB is coordinating with local government units to provide immediate cash assistance and other benefits to the surrenderers, who are now undergoing processing under the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP) and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (PIA Eastern Visayas with reports from 8ID/PA)
