MORE TERROR GROUP SUPPORTERS IN CENTRAL LUZON RETURN TO GOV’T FOLD — MENDEZ

BY KEVIN GALANG

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga  — More former supporters of the communist terror groups (CTGs) in Central Luzon returned to the fold of the law and decided to support government peace and development programs,  the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said.

PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez said several former members and supporters of CTGs in the region voluntarily surrendered and withdrew their support to the terror groups.

The surrender, which happened from June 16 to 18, was made possible through the combined efforts of police, partner security forces, local government units, and other stakeholders.

Among those who returned to the fold of the law were alias “Ka Jun” of Bataan and alias “Ping” of Aurora, who surrendered firearms and other war materiel. 

In Tarlac, a former member of Alyansa ng mga Manggagawang Bukid sa Asyenda Luisita (AMBALA), identified only as “Paco,” also renounced his affiliation and turned over a homemade firearm.

Alias “Boyong” of Pampanga, four members of DAMAKKA in Nueva Ecija, ten members of Liga ng Manggagawang Bukid (LMB) in Guimba, Nueva Ecija, and former members of ANAKPAWIS in Olongapo City also formally withdrew their support from groups associated with the communist movement.

PRO3 attributed the successful engagements to sustained community outreach, dialogue, and intelligence-driven operations carried out under the government’s whole-of-nation approach in support of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Mendez said the increasing number of former rebels and supporters choosing peace reflects growing public confidence in government initiatives and the cooperation of various sectors in addressing the causes of insurgency.

“These individuals made a courageous decision to leave behind conflict and choose a better future for themselves and their families. Their decision shows that lasting peace is possible when government agencies, local leaders, and communities work together,” Mendez said.

“We remain committed to helping them rebuild their lives and become productive members of society,” he added.

The official said the efforts align with the leadership of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., whose program “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman,” aims to bring government services closer to communities and strengthen initiatives promoting peace, development, and public safety.

The former CTG members and supporters underwent proper documentation and received initial assistance, including food packs and other support services, under the government’s reintegration program.

PRO3 reiterated its call for remaining CTG members and supporters to abandon violence, return to their communities, and take advantage of government programs designed to help them lead peaceful and productive lives