TACLOBAN CITY — A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Eastern Samar has surrendered to government authorities following negotiations involving local officials, community leaders, security forces, and his family, the military reported.
The former rebel, identified only as alias “Dannie,” voluntarily yielded on May 31 in Barangay Mabuhay, Jipapad, Eastern Samar, according to the Division Public Affairs Office of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID).
Military records identified “Dannie” as a member of Squad 2 of the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) Laysan under the Sub-Regional Committee Arctic, one of the remaining insurgent units operating in the province.
The 8ID said the surrender was the result of sustained dialogue and negotiation efforts led by the local government of Jipapad under Mayor Benjamin Ver, with support from security forces, village officials, and the former rebel’s relatives.
According to the military, family members played a crucial role in convincing “Dannie” to abandon the armed struggle and return to civilian life.
Following his surrender, the former rebel will undergo processing to qualify for government assistance and reintegration programs available to former insurgents.
These programs include livelihood support, social reintegration services, and other forms of assistance aimed at helping former rebels rebuild their lives and become productive members of their communities.
In a statement, the 8ID commended the collaborative efforts of local officials, security forces, and the surrenderer’s family.
“The decision of alias ‘Dannie’ to reject armed struggle and return to the fold of the law reflects the positive impact of collaboration among local government units, families, communities, and security forces,” the division said.
“We commend the LGU of Jipapad and his family for their unwavering efforts in guiding him toward a peaceful path. His return serves as a reminder that there is always an opportunity for reconciliation and a better future beyond armed conflict,” it added.
The military said it would continue supporting peace-building initiatives and encouraging remaining members of armed groups to avail themselves of government reintegration and livelihood programs as part of efforts to end the decades-long communist insurgency in the region.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
