Cagayan de Oro City, October 30, 2024 — In a significant step toward stability in Surigao del Sur, 90 former rebels (FRs) committed to peaceful reintegration into society during a ceremonial event held at the Governor Vicente T. Pimentel Multi-purpose Hall. The event, titled “Presentation of FRs and Ceremonial Turn-over of Firearms,” marked a hopeful turn in the province’s ongoing peace efforts.
Courtesy of 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division.
The program was facilitated by the Surigao del Sur Local Government Unit (LGU) in collaboration with the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other government agencies. This initiative is part of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), aimed at helping former rebels transition back into mainstream society. The event also sought to encourage remaining members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to surrender, supporting the national goal of ending local insurgencies.
The former rebels formally surrendered to various units, including the 36th, 29th, and 75th Infantry Battalions, and the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, along with the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office. They handed over 36 high-powered firearms of various calibers as part of their commitment to leave behind armed struggle and pursue peace.
Commitment to Stability and Support for Former Rebels
Key officials attended the ceremony, including Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander T. Pimentel, who led the former rebels in taking an Oath of Allegiance to the government. This symbolic gesture underscored their decision to abandon conflict and join the province’s peaceful efforts. Governor Pimentel commended the former rebels’ courage in laying down arms, assuring them of continued support from the local government as they reintegrate.
“We thank you for choosing the path of peace, and we are here to support you in building a new future,” Governor Pimentel stated, affirming the LGU’s commitment to peace-building and cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Brigadier Generals Francisco P. Lorenzo Jr. and Arsenio D.C. Sadural, commanders of the 401st and 901st Brigades respectively, expressed their optimism in achieving a “State of Stable Internal Peace and Security” (SIPS) within the province. Both commanders highlighted the importance of freeing Surigao del Sur from the influence of communist terrorist groups to secure a peaceful future.
Enhanced Security Operations and Local Support
The event followed a series of focused military operations targeting remaining insurgent factions. Successful efforts by the military in Bolhoon, San Miguel, in September resulted in the surrender of multiple members, reinforcing government efforts to reduce conflict in the region.
In a statement, Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, commended the former rebels’ commitment to reuniting with their families and pursuing productive lives. He noted that the government, through E-CLIP, offers comprehensive support to facilitate their transition, including livelihood programs, skills training, and financial assistance.
“These recent developments demonstrate the exceptional dedication and commitment of our troops,” Cuerpo said. “To those who have surrendered, your decision to return to the folds of the law is a significant step in supporting our government’s efforts toward peace and reconciliation in Surigao del Sur.”
The reintegration ceremony symbolizes a new chapter for these former rebels, as local government units, the Philippine Army, and national agencies continue working hand-in-hand toward a stable, insurgency-free Surigao del Sur.
