CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — A member of the notorious New People’s Army (NPA) was captured during a focused military operation by the 52nd Infantry Battalion (52IB) in the remote area of Barangay Malidong, Gamay, Northern Samar, on November 18, 2024.
According to Capt. Jefferson Mariano, Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office, the operation followed reports from a concerned citizen who alerted authorities about the presence of NPA rebels with firearms allegedly extorting locals. This came after a previous encounter on November 12. The operation led to the apprehension of the individual identified as alias “Ahon,” Vice Squad Leader of the Regional Guerrilla Unit (RGU) under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). Authorities also seized a firearm in his possession.
In a separate incident, the 20th Infantry Battalion (20IB) engaged around 10 NPA members during a focused military operation in Barangay C.M. Recto, Catubig, Northern Samar. The firefight resulted in the recovery of three high-powered firearms, assorted ammunition, medical supplies, and personal belongings of the rebels.
Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor commended the troops for their swift and decisive actions that led to the retreat of the insurgents. “This operation underscores our commitment to neutralizing threats to peace. It also serves as a call to remaining NPA members to surrender and take advantage of the government’s reintegration programs,” said Lt. Col. Villaflor.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, praised the successful operations, stressing the importance of civilian cooperation in combating insurgency. “The assistance of the local population is crucial to the success of our missions. We remain determined to end the atrocities and criminal acts of these groups. We will pursue them until their defeat,” said Maj. Gen. Orio.
Maj. Gen. Orio also urged the remaining NPA members to consider the government’s Amnesty Program, which offers a chance to reintegrate into society and leave the violence behind. Under the program, members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) can receive amnesty, effectively extinguishing criminal liability for their offenses, though they may still be held accountable for civil damages.
The Amnesty Program, established under Executive Order No. 125 (2021) and amended by EO 47 (2023), is part of the government’s efforts to offer a peaceful resolution to the insurgency.
