At least five alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and Dawlah Islamiyah-Maguid Group have turned themselves in to authorities in Tupi, South Cotabato.

According to the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), the five individuals surrendered to the Joint Task Force Central on Friday, October 3, 2025.

WestMinCom said two of them were identified as NPA members while the three others belonged to the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maguid Group.

JTF Central Commander, Major General Donald Gumiran, said the surrender was the result of sustained intelligence operations and negotiation efforts conducted by the troops in the area.

The five individuals also surrendered war materiel, including rifles, an M79 grenade launcher, M1 Carbine, and ammunition.

The individuals and the firearms were turned over to the 38th Infantry Battalion.

WestMinCom Commander, Brigadier General Romulo Quemado II, commended the individuals for laying down their arms.

“The decision of these former rebels to surrender and lay down their arms is a step toward healing and reconciliation. WestMinCom remains steadfast in its commitment to support our troops, local governments, and communities in fostering peace and ensuring that opportunities for a better future outweigh the lure of armed struggle,” Quemado said.

WestMinCom added that the surrender came just days after residents of Datu Unsay, Maguindanao del Sur turned over loose firearms on September 30.