More than 2K NPA rebels, supporters surrendered in past 2 months

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) (PNA photo)

MANILA — In the first two months of 2018, a total of 2,263 members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) have voluntarily surrendered to government forces.

This was bared by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Emmanuel Garcia in a message Monday.

“As of March 4, 2018, a total of 607 regular members of the NPA yielded to government authorities while the remaining 1,656 surrenderers are categorized into Militia ng Bayan (MB), Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) members and mass supporters,” he added.

Data shows that the overwhelming number of surrenders happened in Davao Region where the bulk of the NPAs force is also situated.

“A total of 2,036 or 90 percent of surrenders come from Davao Region. Most notable were the series of mass surrenders in Compostela Valley province where 371 UGMO members and supporters surrendered in Maragusan last January 20, 193 UGMO members and supporters surrendered in Monkayo last Feb. 3, and 166 UGMO members and supporters in Montevista who surrendered on Feb. 19,” the military official emphasized.

Garcia said the massive surrenders of NPAs and their supporters were attributed to the combined focused military operations, intelligence efforts, civil-military operations and re-integration efforts and peace and development programs of the AFP, Philippine National Police, and local government units.

“The AFP is expecting more surrenders as former rebels and supporters expressed discontent inside the CPP-NPA. Statements coming from the former rebels disclosed that they are dissatisfied with the false promises of their leaders and the pattern of deception being done by the NPA terrorists,” he added.

In line with this, Garcia said the AFP will do its best to protect the people and communities from terrorist atrocities.