Eastern visayas: The government's intensified anti-insurgency drive has led to the neutralization of 45 New People's Army (NPA) combatants in Eastern Visayas during the first six months of 2025, the Philippine Army (PA) reported Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PA's 8th Infantry Division (ID) said that of the 45 neutralized armed rebels, 17 were killed in armed encounters with government troops, one was captured, and 27 voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Army's 8th ID, said the surrender of several NPA fighters from January to June this year is an indication of the 'declining morale and dwindling strength of the insurgents.'
'These successes are not ours alone - they are the product of strong collaboration with our local government units, partner agencies, and most importantly, the people in the communities. The timely information and continued support from civilians have been vital in weakening the enemy's operational capacity,' Orio said in a statement.
The official said the surrender of several rebels is in response to the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to the people of Samar to help the government in turning former rebels into productive citizens of the nation.
During his visit to Calbayog City, Samar, on July 3, 2024, Marcos said his administration has been implementing a program that encourages rebels to return to the fold of law and become useful members of society.
The 27 who voluntarily surrendered this year have been assisted by the government in starting a new journey in life.
The PA said the government has been true to its promise to invest in new infrastructure projects, create livelihood opportunities, and enforce peace and order in the region to encourage more rebels to surrender.
Meanwhile, the intensified military operations also yielded 54 firearms during the first half of the year, including 21 firearms recovered during clashes and 33 voluntarily surrendered by rebels.
Orio said the seized firearms dealt a significant blow to the NPA's armed capability.
The recent gains are not only tactical victories but also clear indicators of the rebels' declining influence in the region, according to the official.
'These operations have delivered a substantial blow to the NPA's ranks and resources. We are closing in on our goal of achieving genuine and lasting peace in Eastern Visayas. Rest assured, your army will not relent. We will sustain our focused military operations while also supporting efforts that promote good governance and socio-economic development,' Orio added.
The Philippine Army reiterates its call for the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law, as the government continues to open avenues for reintegration and a peaceful life.
