Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte — A regular member of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Northeastern Mindanao peacefully surrendered to the troops of the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) on Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Purok 4, Barangay Del Pilar, this city.
The surrenderer was identified as Edgardo Trabaho Carbonilla, alias “Dexter,” a known member of an NPA unit active in the Caraga region. Along with his surrender, Carbonilla turned over two high-powered firearms—an M16 rifle and a 7.62mm AKCZ rifle.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, commanding officer of 29IB, Carbonilla was involved in providing security for NPA top leader Myrna Sularte, also known as Maria Malaya, from the third quarter of 2024 until her death in February this year. Tabon said the loss of Sularte caused demoralization among the remaining members of her group, leading to a series of surrenders.
Meanwhile, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said Carbonilla’s surrender reflects the growing momentum of the government’s campaign to end local armed conflict in Mindanao.
“The NPA in the region is now powerless. After the neutralization of their key leaders, the group’s structure has been severely weakened, resulting in the mass surrender of their members,” Anayron said. He added that the testimonies of former rebels often point to the hardships they endured in the mountains and their longing to return to their families and live in peace.
The 4ID emphasized its continued commitment to support former rebels as they reintegrate into society and to strengthen security in conflict-affected communities.
The Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) has been designated as a terrorist organization by the Philippine government, the United States, the European Union, and other international bodies.