Maramag, Bukidnon – In a significant step toward fostering peace and reconciliation, several members of the New People’s Army (NPA), Milisyang Bayan operatives, and supporters voluntarily surrendered to authorities on January 1, 2025. The event, spearheaded by the 48th Infantry Battalion (48IB), took place at their headquarters in Purok 10, Barangay South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon.
The surrender was driven by heartfelt appeals from the families of the insurgents, urging their loved ones to abandon the armed struggle and embrace a fresh start, especially during the holiday season. Heeding the call for peace and recognizing the importance of reuniting with their families, many individuals took this crucial step toward reintegration.
A Unified Effort for Peace
The operation was a collaborative success involving the 48IB, Bravo Company of the 72nd Infantry Battalion (72IB), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units. The surrenderees included:
- Two members of the Headquarters Loader of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee from Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
- Six Milisyang Bayan operatives and supporters from Purok 16, Sitio Sunny Day, Barangay Butong, Quezon, Bukidnon.
- Four individuals from the Dismantled Guerilla Front 53 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, including residents of Barangay Magsaysay, Kibawe, and Barangay Omonay, Damulog, Bukidnon.
- One additional surrenderee from Purok Narra, Midpapan 2, Pigcawayan, North Cotabato.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of weapons and other war materials, further diminishing the insurgents’ capabilities.
Leaders of Peace
LTC Gilbert F. Gomez, Commanding Officer of the 48IB, highlighted the significance of this peaceful resolution during the holidays.
“Now is the time for peace, love, and new beginnings,” said LTC Gomez. “We invite all who are still fighting to reintegrate into society, reunite with their families, and embrace the opportunity for a better future. Thank you for trusting us with your decision.”
Local leaders played a pivotal role in the process, with Quezon Municipal Mayor Hon. Pablo Lorenzo III facilitating the surrender of key individuals, particularly a couple from the Headquarters Loader. Mayor Lorenzo’s leadership, in partnership with the Philippine Army and PNP, bridged the gap between insurgents and their communities, enabling families to reconnect and rebuild their lives.
Sustained Peace Efforts
The success of this operation was also attributed to initiatives like the Modified Community Sustainment Teams (MCSST) and Civil Military Operations (CMO). These programs reached out to underground mass organization members and NPA supporters, offering them a chance to leave the violence behind and start anew.
A Season of Reconciliation
The 48IB’s efforts underscore their commitment to peace and development, particularly during the season of goodwill. As Bukidnon continues to move toward reconciliation and progress, the voluntary surrender of these individuals serves as a beacon of hope, reminding others still in conflict that peace is possible, and new beginnings await.