A former rebel couple who once served as leaders of an armed movement in Eastern Visayas has surrendered to government forces and reunited with their family after spending more than two decades in the underground struggle.
The couple, identified only by their aliases “Aga” and “Bigo,” chose to abandon the armed movement during the Philippines’ 128th Independence Day celebration, according to the military.
Both were former leaders of the Sub-Regional Committee Sesame under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee. Military officials said the couple spent years living in hiding and were forced to leave the care of their children to relatives while they remained active in the movement.
According to the Philippine Army, the couple surrendered to the 63rd Infantry Battalion through the government’s Localized Peace Engagement Program.
Military officials said the pair decided to return to the fold of the law after reflecting on the years they had spent in the armed struggle and the sacrifices they had made away from their family.
As part of their surrender, the former rebels turned over several high-powered firearms and ammunition to authorities, a move the military described as a sign of their commitment to reintegration into society.
The couple has since been reunited with their children and is now beginning a new chapter of life within their community.
The Philippine Army said the surrender highlights ongoing efforts to encourage members of armed groups to take advantage of government peace and reintegration programs.
Military officials also called on other remaining rebels in Samar to consider returning to civilian life and participate in peace initiatives being offered by the government.
Authorities said such programs aim to help former rebels reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives with their families.
