TACLOBAN CITY – A former supporter of the communist underground movement in Eastern Visayas has voluntarily surrendered to authorities in General MacArthur, Eastern Samar, in what police say is another sign of progress in ongoing peace and reintegration efforts across the region.
The surrenderee, identified only as alias “Lando”, 45, was reportedly affiliated with the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) from 2017 to 2022, serving as a member of an Underground Mass Organization (UGMO)—a civilian support group linked to the New People’s Army (NPA).
According to the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8), “Lando” turned himself in on July 8, 2025, through the coordinated efforts of the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd ESPMFC), the Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office, and the Provincial Intelligence Team–Eastern Samar.
“The decision of alias ‘Lando’ to leave the rebel group shows that our strengthened community engagement and focused police operations are making a real impact,” said Police Brigadier General Jay Cumigad, regional director of PRO-8.
“We welcome his decision to return to a peaceful and lawful life with the government’s support. To those still in the armed struggle, we say this: Peace is always an option. There is always a way out,” he added.
Authorities said “Lando” is currently undergoing documentation and assessment for possible enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)—a government initiative that provides financial, livelihood, and reintegration assistance to former rebels and their supporters.
As initial support, the former rebel supporter received a food pack from the operating unit.
PRO-8 reiterated its call for remaining members and sympathizers of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in Eastern Visayas to abandon the armed struggle and avail of the government’s reintegration programs, which aim to provide former insurgents a second chance at a peaceful, productive life.
(RONALD O. REYES)
