Up to 101 former communist rebels who had been lying low have surrendered to authorities in Mati City, Davao Oriental.
The Army’s 1001st Infantry Brigade facilitated the surrender in a ceremony at its headquarters on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
The military said the collective efforts of soldiers and other government agencies convinced former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who had been lying low to resurface and renounce the armed struggle publicly.
The former rebels withdrew their support from the rebel group and committed to rebuilding their lives in peace.
During the ceremony, they turned over at least 39 assorted firearms and several pieces of war materiel.
“Peace is always possible when hearts are willing to change and communities are ready to welcome,” 1001st Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Vince James Bantilan, said.
