Zamboanga Peninsula has been declared insurgency-free following the surrender of the three remaining members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Zamboanga del Sur.

The 1st Infantry Division (1ID) declared the region NPA-free after alias “Jack” and the couple alias “Jundy” and alias “Crismae” turned themselves in on Friday, July 19, 2024.

The military said the three were members of the former Guerilla Front BBC (Big Beautiful Country) that operated in the hinterlands of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Misamis Occidental. After BBC fell apart, the three reportedly joined the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

They also turned over their firearms, including M16A1 rifle, M16 rifle, and caliber .45 pistol.

Officials of the 1ID assured the safety of the three during the reintegration process.

The three were also given financial assistance from the local government of Zamboanga del Sur.

According to the military, the surrender underscored the ‘government’s commitment to fostering reconciliation and promoting peacebuilding.’

“By enabling former rebels to reintegrate into society, it aims to boost community development and stability,” 1ID said.