By Edwin Fernandez

NPA DENOUNCED. Supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their families held a silent protest and burned NPA flags (inset) in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, on Sunday (March 30, 2025_). Six NPA rebels and 30 supporters surrendered to the military that day. (Photo courtesy of 57IB)

LEBAK, Sultan Kudarat – Six communist rebels and 30 supporters surrendered to military authorities on Sunday, denouncing communism and burning the New People’s Army (NPA) flag.

The former rebels also held a peace rally condemning NPA atrocities against civilians.

“The surrendering rebels and their supporters were operating in the villages of Basak, Bululawan, Nuling, Ragandang, and Poloy-Poloy, all in Lebak,” said Lt. Col Aeron T. Gumabao, commander of the Philippine Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion, on Monday.

He said the surrender was a result of the Community Support Program (CSP) and the Municipal and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

The group surrendered 20 firearms, including an M16 rifle, .45-caliber pistols, grenade launchers, 12-gauge shotguns, and ammunition.

“This is a clear indication that the communist rebels are losing its mass base support,” said Maj. Gen. Donald Gumiran, 6th Infantry Division commander.

“I urge other NPA rebels to avail of the government’s peace offer,” he said. (PNA)