Lebak, Sultan Kudarat — On September 28, 2024, three communist rebels surrendered to the government through the efforts of the 37th Infantry (Conqueror) Battalion, citing extreme hardship, hunger, and exhaustion from their time in the mountains with armed groups.
Lieutenant Colonel Christopherson M. Capuyan, commander of the 37IB, presented the three individuals along with their firearms to Brigadier General Michael A. Santos, commander of the 603rd Brigade. The presentation was also attended by Hon. Juaquin Concha, Mayor of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, and other key security officials, including PMaj Leonel Delasan, Deputy Commander of the 2nd SKPMFC, PLt Rico Gabriel Sanque, Deputy Chief of Police of Kalamansig, PLt Arnel Sangalang, Station Chief of the PNP Maritime, and PO2 Francis Kevin Ragmac, Commander of the PCG Sub-Station.
According to LTC Capuyan, the intensified military operations in the area prompted the rebels to descend from the mountains and return to civilian life. Mayor Concha acknowledged the decision of the surrendering individuals and provided them with immediate financial assistance and sacks of rice to support their reintegration into society.
BGEN Santos commended the efforts of the 37IB, in collaboration with the local government of Kalamansig, in helping those who wish to return to the fold of the law. He emphasized, “Our soldiers will continue to strengthen Civil Military Operations alongside local government units to put an end to the fight against the CPP-NPA.”
The government, through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), continues to demonstrate its readiness to assist those who want to surrender and live peacefully in their communities. The program ensures that rebels who choose to return to the government are provided with support to rebuild their lives.
