THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) announced the elimination of all remaining guerrilla fronts in its area of operation, highlighting the surrender of 45 former rebels since July.
This success is attributed to the effectiveness of government reintegration programs providing tangible benefits to those who return to society.
As of July 30, EastMinCom recorded four encounters resulting in the capture of five communist terrorist group members.
The command’s data also reveals no active guerrilla fronts, a decrease in NPA manpower to 269, and a total of 286 firearms remaining, primarily within the Joint Task Force Diamond (JTFD) or 4th Infantry Division area.
JTFD reported the capture of two NPA members and the surrender of eleven others, while Joint Task Force Agila (JTFA) reported the capture of three NPA members and the surrender of 34 others.
Both task forces also seized numerous firearms and anti-personnel landmines.
Major Salvacion Evangelista, the EastMinCom spokesperson, attributed the decrease in surrender rates to former rebels experiencing tangible benefits from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides essential support through local government units and various agencies.
EastMinCom is also collaborating with local government units in Bukidnon and Surigao to encourage further surrenders.
Additionally, they are intensifying security measures in preparation for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur, working closely with law enforcement agencies like the PNP to ensure a safe environment.
Evangelista emphasized EastMinCom’s ongoing commitment to peace and security efforts in the region and called for continued collaboration with the media to achieve the shared goal of permanent peace and development in the country.
