Economy

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Economy

24 Jan, 2026

Three Former NPA Fighters Surrender and Reintegrate into Society in Mindanao

Bonifacio Tumang

The Philippine Army has confirmed that three former combatants associated with the New People’s Army (NPA) in North Central Mindanao have surrendered their firearms and reintegrated into mainstream society. These individuals had been part of the NPA’s sub-regional committee under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

Currently, the surrenderees are undergoing detailed custodial debriefing and documentation at a designated facility in Butuan City. This process aims to facilitate their smooth transition back into civilian life.

Brigadier General Adolfo Espuelas Jr., commander of the 402nd Infantry Brigade, highlighted that the recent wave of communist rebel surrenders reflects a notable decline in the NPA’s operational strength and morale. "These developments confirm the diminishing influence of the insurgent group in the region," he stated.

The Philippine Army continues to encourage other insurgents to follow suit in abandoning armed struggle and returning to peaceful community life.