IN A significant step in the peace efforts of Davao Region and nearby areas, authorities welcomed on Feb. 6, 2025, the 232 former rebels who surrendered to the different units under the 10th Infantry Division since last year.
The 232 former rebels consisted of 189 regulars and 43 Militia Bayan.
Also, the former rebels surrendered 111 firearms consisting of 64 high-powered firearms and 47 low-powered firearms.
Secretary Anton Lagdameo Jr., special assistant to the president, was the guest of honor speaker. Also present were local chief executives of the Davao province, Lt Gen Rex Luis Bergante, commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, 10th Infantry Division commander Major General Allan Hambala, brigade and battalion commanders under 10ID, and other military and police officials.
In his message, Lagdameo emphasized the importance of the program, where he mentioned the government’s continuous efforts to end the local communist armed conflict and reintegrate former rebels back into the communities.
“This is not just about laying down arms, but a new beginning, a new hope for those ready to change their lives,” said Lagdameo in his speech.
As part of their surrender, they received food packs, kitchen kits from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and P5,000 financial assistance from the Office of the President, in addition to support from various provincial officials.
Lagdameo positively stated that this program would inspire other rebels to follow in the footsteps of their former comrades and make lasting changes.
“To all who surrendered and chose peace, we salute your bravery and your decision to change your life. What you did today is an inspiration for others to follow in your footsteps,” Lagdameo added.
Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its efforts in maintaining peace and security in the region.
He emphasized that MinDA remains dedicated to helping former rebels reintegrate into society.
As cabinet officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Region XI, Magno reaffirmed the government’s goal of ensuring the region remains insurgency-free.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration among various government agencies in maintaining peace.
“Kasama ninyo kami sa gobyerno, kung ano man ang pinanggalingan ninyo. Kasama ninyo kami sa pagpatuloy ng sana mas mapayapa, mas progresibo at mas maayos na buhay,” Magno said
Bergante said in his message:” I hope the problem will end, and this surrender gives us hope.”
Meanwhile, Hambala called for collective efforts to sustain an insurgency-free environment within the Agila Division’s area of operations.
“Today’s event is not only a celebration of transformation but also a call to action for all of us to strengthen our commitment to building bridges of trust and reconciliation,” Maj. Gen. Hambala emphasized.
Rebuilding lives, fostering peace in the communities
Among the 232 individuals who surrendered, Denissa (not her real name) shared her story of how she was recruited into the NPA in 2017 after discovering that her husband had already joined.
She initially served in the group’s medical unit before later becoming a liaison. However, the harsh realities of guerrilla life, unfulfilled promises, and the pain of being away from her family drove her to leave.
“Ultimo birthday, ultimo Pasko, dili makauban ang pamilya. Igo ra saad tanan. Kapoy kaayo sigi’g panglusong sa bukid. Imo anak dili nimo makauban bisan nagsakit na (Not even on birthdays, not even on Christmas—I couldn’t be with my family. It was all just promises. I was exhausted from constantly moving in the mountains. I couldn’t even be with my child, even when they were sick),” she said. She decided to return to her community in 2018 and was formally rescued by the 10th ID last year.
Since then, she has received food packs and PHP 5,000 in financial assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as well as livelihood support to help her rebuild her life.
Moreover, the former rebels will also be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)to help with their reintegration.
Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron
