Nine former members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) have surrendered and turned over firearms to authorities in Las Navas, Northern Samar, the military said.
The former rebels were formally presented to the Las Navas Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) at the municipal hall on July 6, 2026, as they began the process of returning to civilian life.
Las Navas Mayor John Philbert S. Tan, who chairs the MTF-ELCAC, welcomed the former rebels and assured them of local government support as they reintegrate into their families and communities.
Tan said the municipality would help them access government assistance programs, including financial aid and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Initial debriefings showed that prolonged hardship, dwindling food supplies and declining morale within the armed movement were among the main reasons for their decision to surrender.
The 8th Infantry Division said the development reflected the difficult conditions faced by remaining CTG members and their growing realization that peace and progress could be pursued through lawful and democratic means.
The military attributed the surrender to cooperation among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s Whole-of-Nation Approach.
It said coordinated security operations, community engagements and government interventions have encouraged more individuals to abandon the armed struggle and undergo peaceful reintegration.
“The 8th Infantry Division warmly welcomes our fellow Filipinos who have chosen to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law. Their decision reflects courage, hope, and a desire to build a better future for themselves and their families. We assure them that the government remains committed to supporting their reintegration through programs that promote healing, livelihood, and lasting peace. To those who remain in the armed movement, our message is clear: it is never too late to choose peace. Lay down your arms, reunite with your loved ones, and become partners with us in building safer and more progressive communities across Eastern Visayas.”
The division said government forces would continue pursuing armed groups that threaten communities while providing opportunities for those willing to renounce violence and return to society.
It added that the surrender of the nine former rebels marked another step in the government’s campaign for lasting peace in Northern Samar through focused security operations, peacebuilding and development initiatives.