115 REBELS, SUPPORTERS RENOUNCE TIES WITH COMMUNIST TERROR GROUP, SURRENDER GUNS

 BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — A total of 115 members and supporters of Komiteng Rehiyon–Gitnang Luzon (KRGL) have withdrawn their support from the Communist Terror Group (CTG) and turned over their firearms in a ceremony held on Monday in this camp.

The event, held at the PRO3 Multi-Purpose Hall, marked a major step in the government’s ongoing peace and security campaign in Central Luzon.

Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) led the ceremony, alongside Brig Gen. Jess B. Mendez, regional director of the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), and Ulysses Untalan. 

The gathering highlighted inter-agency cooperation in addressing insurgency through a whole-of-nation approach.

During the occasion, the former members and supporters publicly declared their withdrawal of support from the CTG and pledged allegiance to the government. 

They signed a formal Pledge of Commitment, affirming their rejection of armed struggle and their support for peace, lawful governance, and community development.

In a symbolic move, the group also surrendered 38 assorted firearms, signaling their full disengagement from insurgent activities and their intent to reintegrate into mainstream society.

Following the rites, a “Serbisyo Caravan” was conducted, with various government agencies providing essential services such as medical assistance, livelihood support, and social welfare programs to help the former supporters transition back into their communities.

The event concluded with the destruction of a New People’s Army (NPA) flag, symbolizing a collective rejection of insurgency and a renewed commitment to peace and development.

Mendez commended the participants for their decision, saying it reflects growing public trust in government initiatives.

“This mass withdrawal, signing of commitment, and surrender of firearms clearly show that our people are choosing peace over violence. It reflects growing public confidence in the government and the effectiveness of our sustained efforts under the whole-of-nation approach,”  he said.

Ebdane, for his part, reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to sustaining peace-building efforts and inclusive development programs.

Authorities said monitoring and support mechanisms will remain in place to ensure the former members do not return to unlawful activities, while community-based initiatives will continue to address the root causes of insurgency.

Officials said the development underscores the government’s continued push for lasting peace and stability in Central Luzon through strengthened collaboration and expanded delivery of services.