Five current and former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and affiliated underground organizations surrendered to authorities in Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar on Oct. 13, 15 and 18.
In Hinabangan, Samar, alias Elmer, 30, surrendered on Oct. 13. He was identified as a member of the NPA in the Barrio under SRC Browser. He turned over a shotgun and ammunition.
On Oct. 15, alias Rey, 37, surrendered in Maydolong, Eastern Samar. He was identified as a member of an Underground Mass Organization under SRC Sesame and turned over a rifle grenade.
In Hinabangan, alias Mar, 54, also returned to the fold. He said he had grown tired of the movement, experienced severe hardships and wanted to live peacefully. He surrendered a .45-caliber firearm, ammunition, magazines and a grenade.
On Oct. 18, alias Nonoy, 34, surrendered in Catarman, Northern Samar, while alias James, 25, surrendered in Oras, Eastern Samar.
The five individuals are undergoing documentation, debriefing and assessment for possible inclusion in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The program is intended to support eligible former members of armed groups as they transition back to civilian life.
The surrenders took place across three provinces in Eastern Visayas over three dates. The report identified Elmer as an NPA in the Barrio member and Rey as a member of an affiliated underground organization. It did not specify the organizational affiliations of Nonoy and James.
Authorities are continuing the assessment process to determine whether the five qualify for participation in E-CLIP.
