Insurgency: NPA Now 'Leaderless'

The AFP has once again declared the NPA to be leaderless. There is also only 1 weakened front remaining. Only 1,050 rebels are left scattered around the country. Dismantling the last guerrilla front has proved challenging because they continue to evade the AFP.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246859

The New People’s Army (NPA) is now “leaderless” and only has one remaining “weakened’ guerrilla front that is expected to be dismantled within the year, the National Security Council (NSC) said Wednesday.

In a panel discussion hosted by the Presidential Communications Office, NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), is now “at its lowest point in its more than 50 years of reign of terror in the countryside.”

“They are leaderless now because the entire Central Committee, we have neutralized many of them,” Malaya said.

“So, it's actually a leaderless organization. The only ones running it are the small unit commanders,” he added.

Malaya attributed the CPP-NPA’s apparent defeat to leadership losses following the death of its founder, Jose Maria Sison, and neutralization of key Central Committee members; focused military and police operations; socio-economic investments; and sustained localized peace engagements.

He said the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) anti-terror grooming and radicalization program impeded the NPA’s recruitment efforts in schools and universities.

He added that the NPA did not succeed in reclaiming its lost mass bases because of the NTF-ELCAC’s initiatives, intensified military and police operations, legal and financial restrictions, socio-economic projects, and amnesty programs.

Malaya touted the “98.88 percent” accomplishment rate in dismantling the NPA’s guerilla fronts, adding that the rebels could no longer be considered a threat to the peaceful conduct of the May 2025 mid-term elections.

“There is now only one remaining weakened guerilla front in the province of Camarines Sur. It’s sad that I’m from there. And this remaining weakened GF will be dismantled within the year,” he said.

“At present, there are only 1,050 remaining NPA armed members scattered and isolated in some parts of the country. When NTF-ELCAC was organized, 89 po lahat iyan, (they are 89), 89 guerilla fronts. And now, we are at one weakened guerilla front,” Malaya added.

While there is only one NPA guerilla front in the country, it is “very challenging” to dismantle the group because it is “constantly evading [the] troops," Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida said.

Larida, however, remained optimistic that the remaining guerrilla front would be dismantled by March. 

March is almost over and the front remains. No word on the time frame for defeating the remaining 1,050 rebels. The AFP says the remaining rebels are being run by small unit commanders. That is still leadership.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2047592/npa-commander-from-negros-yields-to-cebu-city-police

An alleged commander of the New People’s Army (NPA) on Tuesday surrendered to the police in this city.

Misael Atadero Dela Cruz, 57, a resident of Sitio Kakha, Barangay Talalak, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, was accompanied by his wife.

He said he decided to surrender in Cebu City “for security purposes” as he feared yielding to authorities in Negros.

Dela Cruz, also known as “Jimlan, Layan, Ly, Totoy, Yanyan, Naldo, and Yaksel” is facing multiple charges in court and said he was tired of hiding.

The suspect is considered a “national level most wanted person.”

“I think he feels more at ease surrendering and revealing himself in Cebu City, possibly because of the media presence here. That might be a way for him to protect himself,” said Lieutenant Colonel Macatangay, deputy director for operations of the Cebu City Police Office.

The police served multiple warrants of arrest against him when he surrendered to the Abellana Police Station in Cebu City with the assistance of the Regional Intelligence Unit.

The suspect has outstanding warrants for three counts of rebellion issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 63 in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental; and violations of Republic Act 9851 (Crimes Against International Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity) issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 64 in Guihulngan City.

He also has three counts of murder charges issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 63 in Bayawan City and Branch 64 in Guihulngan City; two counts of frustrated murder issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 64 in Guihulngan City and Branch 63 in Bayawan City; and violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act), Republic Act 7166, and Comelec Resolution No. 10728, all issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 38 in Dumaguete City.

He also faces two counts of robbery issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 64 in Guihulngan City and six counts of theft issued by the same court in Guihulngan City.

That is also one less commander.

Between January 1st and March 20th 254 Reds have been neutralized. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246853

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday announced that 254 New People's Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters have been "neutralized" from Jan. 1 to March 20 this year.

In an interview with PTV-4's "Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon", AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said that of this number, 210 voluntarily surrendered to government security troops.

"Neutralize" is a military term that refers to the taking of out of action, either through surrender, capture or in military encounters of NPA and local terrorist group members.

While not giving specific details on how the other 44 rebels were "neutralized", Padilla said the high number of surrenderers indicates the thinning of the NPA ranks.

The military last year said that 88 out of the 89 NPA guerilla fronts have been neutralized, leaving behind only one weakened front.

The AFP attributed its success in neutralizing the politico-military component of the communist insurgents with the creation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in 2018.

With this development, the AFP spokesperson reiterated the military's appeal to all remaining NPA members and supporters to surrender and avail of the government's amnesty program.

Padilla also reminded these communist insurgents that the "doors of peace will not be open forever" as the amnesty period is only until next year.

"Hinihikayat po namin ang natitira sa kanilang hanay (we are appealing to those still remaining in the NPA ranks), to come back to the folds of the law, and join us in a bigger challenge which is territorial defense," she said.

There is no breakdown on how many are actual rebels versus mere supporters. 

Some of the rebels who surrendered will be living in houses built with hot lumber. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246971

Environment officials in Agusan del Norte will donate 16,494 board feet of confiscated lumber to support a housing project for former communist rebels, authorities announced Thursday.

The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Nasipit said the materials, seized during 2023 anti-illegal logging operations, would help construct homes in Sitio Talaganahaw, Barangay Talo-ao, Buenavista town.

The project aims to provide 123 housing units through a partnership between provincial and municipal governments.

"This donation supports our former rebels' transition to peaceful lives," a CENRO-Nasipit spokesperson said.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has allocated PHP10 million (USD180,000) for the initial construction of 18 units this year, with remaining homes scheduled for 2026 completion.

The inter-agency initiative represents part of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program for rebel returnees.

Local officials confirmed the lumber meets construction standards and would be supplemented with additional materials as needed.

At least they didn't destroy the lumber. But is this putting it to good use? Where are the hot lumber homes being built for squatters who aren't rebels?

Another town in Southern Leyte has been declared insurgency-free. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246925

The town of Saint Bernard in Southern Leyte has been declared as completely free from the influence of the New People's Army (NPA), an army official said Thursday.

With no sightings of armed rebels for several years now, the town has achieved insurgency-free status and officially has stable internal peace and security conditions (SIPC), Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said.

Officials led a ceremony on Wednesday to highlight the declarations, which included the signing of memoranda of agreements and pledges of commitment, along with the simultaneous release of white doves, symbolizing peace and new beginnings.

Vestuir lauded the collaborative efforts of the members of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and the support of the community that led to attaining a significant milestone in terms of peace and security.

“This declaration is important as it’s a symbol of the strong commitment of the local government units towards peace and security. We are happy that many towns in Southern Leyte attained the SIPSC status. This is the fruit of everyone’s efforts and not just by the military,” Vestuir said in a phone interview Thursday.

Saint Bernard town Mayor Edito Mulig thanked all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC.

He said this milestone paves the way for further progress in their town, enhancing the quality of life for their constituents.

The Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to sustaining stable peace and security in Saint Bernard.

Saint Bernard, a coastal town with a population of more than 28,000, is located 151 kilometers south of Tacloban City, the regional capital.

Of course this another chance for the NTF-ELCAC to crow about their achievements. There have been calls to abolish the NTF-ELCAC but President Marcos says he will do no such thing.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/03/27/2431394/marcos-will-never-abolish-ntf-elcac

President Marcos rejected fresh calls to abolish the government’s anti-insurgency task force, citing its gains in curbing the activities of communist rebels.

According to National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general Jonathan Malaya, Marcos gave this assurance during a meeting with members of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) yesterday at Malacañang.

“In response to the calls of Gabriela party-list Congresswoman Arlene Brosas asking the President to abolish the NTF-ELCAC, I am sorry to relay the bad news to them – that the President made it clear today that he will never abolish the NTF-ELCAC,” Malaya said at a press briefing.?

“The President, as chairman of the NTF-ELCAC himself, recognizes the success of the task force in decimating the terroristic activities of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front), and if I may quote the President this morning, ‘I’m encouraged by the reports, our efforts are bearing fruit, we have to continue. It has been successful and we need to continue to invest in its success,’” he added.?NTF-ELCAC was created through Executive Order No. 70 signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2018.

Earlier this month, Brosas urged Marcos to abolish the NTF-ELCAC, which she described as “one of the most oppressive state apparatuses created under the Duterte regime.”

According to Malaya, there are only 1,050 remaining NPA members scattered and isolated in some parts of the country. He said the communist insurgency has declined because of the death of its leaders like Joma Sison, focused military and police operations, socioeconomic investments and localized peace engagements.

At the same meeting, President Marcos ordered the Department of Budget and Management to increase the budget of the Barangay Development Program (BDP) under the NTF-ELCAC.

Under the new directive, the DBM would add another P5 million to this year’s current P2.5-million allocation for each barangay that is being granted programs and projects after being cleared of insurgents or NPA presence and influence.

“We have made promises. We must live up to them. Otherwise, they would return to the NPA and say the government is worthless,” Marcos said.

The NSC noted that the National Expenditure Program allocated P10 million each in 2025 for 780 barangays cleared of NPA presence but the General Appropriations Act slashed the funding to P2.5 million per barangay.

“We need to find a way to restore the P10 million per barangay. That’s the most important to me. We’re making good progress because of the BDP. I cannot stress enough that point. The Barangay Development Program is key to the success of the entire NTF ELCAC project,” Marcos stressed.

The NTF-ELCAC is also getting a new partner, The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1247031

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) on Friday expressed willingness to aid the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC)'s Barangay Development Program (BDP).

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., in a statement, said the agency will do this through their "Payapa at Masagang Pamayanan" (PAMANA) program that aims to uplift the lives of Filipinos in conflict-affected areas.

"The OPAPRU is ready to support and complement the NTF-ELCAC’s BDP through the socio-economic initiatives under the PAMANA program," he added.

Galvez made this pledge after National Security Adviser (NSA) Secretary Eduardo Año recommended the OPAPRU as the co-chair of the NTF-ELCAC’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration and Amnesty Program Cluster that was recently approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

He said the OPAPRU is ready to complement the BDP through socio-economic initiatives that would provide conflict-affected communities with much-needed services and create pathways for inclusive development.

"With that, we convey our sincere thanks to Secretary Año for his trust and confidence as we work to address the local communist insurgency and achieve good governance in our localities," Galvez said.

The OPAPRU chief also expressed his full support to Año in light of recent national developments.

"His integrity, wisdom, and genuine commitment to public service are evident in his distinguished career," he added.

Galvez also said he personally witnessed the NSA's exceptional leadership during the Battle of Marawi, where his strategic acumen was crucial to the victory as Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff.

He said Año demonstrated the same resolve during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he was the secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, which was a vital partner of the National Task Force against Covid-19 in dealing with public health and safety challenges.

"Now, as the NSA, his agency’s support to the OPAPRU has been invaluable for maintaining peace and order, most especially in the Bangsamoro region. This demonstrates his unwavering dedication to national stability," Galvez noted.

Why weren't they coordinating before? Their missions do conicide.

Insurgency: NPA Membership In Region 8 Down 76%

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Northern Mindanao believes the region can be insurgency free in only 365 days. How you ask?

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246263

The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) in Northern Mindanao is working to make the region insurgency-free within a year, officials said Tuesday.

During the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” forum, Col. Antonio Dulnuan, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, said achieving this goal requires a “whole-of-nation” approach, with public support to rebuild conflict-affected areas.

“We are doing everything we can, in partnership with all stakeholders,” Dulnuan said.

The RTF-ELCAC’s mandate focuses on encouraging communist rebels to surrender and providing them with opportunities for reintegration.

One such initiative is the provision of affordable socialized housing through the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

DHSUD 10 (Northern Mindanao) Director Ariel Abragan said former rebels, referred to as “friends rescued,” are eligible for housing programs under the National Housing Authority.

“We can see that our whole-of-nation approach is effective in deterring the youth from joining armed activities,” Abragan said.

Yvette Sunga, assistant director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) 10, highlighted the RTF-ELCAC’s collaboration with various agencies, creating a harmonized working environment that extends to barangay levels.

The task force’s efforts aim to address the root causes of insurgency and promote sustainable peace and development in the region.

By providing affordable housing to former rebels, I mean "friends rescued." Referring to these violent terrorists as "friends rescued" is quite disingenuous. Just ask the army. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/17/army-s-8-id-clashes-with-npa-in-northern-samar-3-rebels-dead

Three suspected communist rebels were killed in a series of armed encounters between the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) and New People’s Army (NPA) in Mapanas, Northern Samar on Sunday, March 16.

The initial clash occurred around 6 a.m. in Barangay San Jose when troops from the 4thScout Ranger Battalion (4SRBn) encountered an undetermined number of armed men believed to be members of the Regional Guerrilla Unit (RGU) of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), according to Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of 8ID.

He said the troops recovered the body of one NPA fighter, an M14 rifle, an anti-personnel mine, two blasting caps and other personal belongings at the encounter site. The rebels fled after that.

However, after a short chase, the 4SRBn again engaged the same group in a gun-battle which led to the death of another rebel and recovery of an M16 rifle and assorted ammunition.

The remaining rebels again attempted to escape but they were met by blocking forces of the 4SRBn, to which a third firefight erupted that lasted for 10 minutes.

The final clash happened around 10 a.m. as pursuing forces from the 4SRBn encountered the fleeing enemies, which resulted in one more fatality on the NPA’s side. The troops also seized two more rifles, ammunition, backpacks, and other war materiel.

Orio said residents in the community were eager to help the government in eradicating the scourge of communist insurgency in Samar.

“The Philippine Army has repeatedly called on and appealed to the remaining members of the CTGs [communist-terrorist groups] to surrender. However, due to their continued violations and threats to our community, we cannot allow the entire region to suffer,” he stated.

The 8ID chief said troops were scouring the mountains of Northern Samar to find the escaped communist rebels.

He urged them to surrender to the authorities instead of exchanging bullets with the soldiers. He said that government troops are “willing to help those who want to surrender and live a new and peaceful life with their families.”

Not so friendly when they are shooting at you, are they. 

The army says the death of those 3 NPA rebels is a big blow to the remnants in Northern Samar. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246246

The death of three members of the New People’s Army (NPA) during a series of clashes on March 16 in Mapanas, Northern Samar is a big blow to the communist movement in Northern Samar province, considered the last bastion of insurgency in Eastern Visayas.

Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, assistant chief of staff of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division’s Civil Military Operations, said two of the slain combatants have been identified, and the other one is believed to be a ranking leader of the armed group.

“They are remnants of the NPA regional guerrilla unit and front committee 15. There are only a few of them, and they are scattered in Northern Samar. The death of their three members will further diminish their strength,” Buban said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas press briefing Tuesday.

The two slain rebels were identified as Ronnie Pajares, alias Badora, from Eastern Samar, and Edmon Oros, alias Dalisay, from Lapinig, Northern Samar. The identity of the third rebel remains unknown and is still in the process of thorough identification, Buban said.

The initial clash, which claimed the life of a rebel, occurred around 6 a.m. Sunday in upland San Jose village in Mapanas town when troops encountered a band of rebels. Soldiers seized an M14 rifle, a banned anti-personnel mine, two blasting caps, and other personal belongings.

Minutes after the first encounter, troopers engaged the same group attempting to evade government forces. The encounter killed another combatant and led to the recovery of an M16 rifle and assorted ammunition.

Hours after the second encounter, the blocking forces encountered the evading rebels. After the 10-minute firefight, soldiers recovered two backpacks.

Before noon on the same day, another team of soldiers encountered the fleeing enemy, resulting in the death of another NPA member and the seizure of one M14 rifle, one M4 rifle, ammunition, and other war materiel.

“The encounter ensued after villagers provided information to the military about a group of armed men who were seen conducting extortion activities in their community. This is proof that NPA members are not getting support from their previously influenced communities,” Buban added.

As of end-February, there are only 119 remaining armed NPA members in Eastern Visayas.

Their number significantly dwindled between 2019 and 2024 due to focused military operations and interventions by member agencies of the task force to end local communist armed conflict.

The AFP claims there are only 119 armed NPA rebels remaining in the Eastern Visayas. That is a drop of 76% in the past six years. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246406

The number of active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) has declined by around 76 percent as of this month to 119 from 499 in 2019 due to institutionalization of the national and local task forces to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).

Losses incurred by the communist movement is a result of joint ELCAC efforts of different national government agencies and local government units, Lt. Col. Joemar Buban, assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division said in a phone interview Thursday.

In the past six years, this campaign resulted in 461 combat engagements, neutralization of 791 NPA members, seizure of 1,124 firearms, discovery of 620 NPA hideouts, and recovery of 703 anti-personnel mines from Jan. 1, 2018 to Dec. 31, 2024, he said.

The dismantling of NPA front committees prompted some 13,862 members of different left-leaning groups to withdraw their support, with around 1,982 of them renouncing their membership from the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), 7,625 pulling out their support, and 4,255 conceded memberships from underground mass organizations (UGMOs).

The CPP-NPA established UGMOs inside open sectoral organizations and open alliances to advance and support their armed atrocities and terrorist activities.

“We already reached the cross over point where the rate of neutralization surpassed the rate of recruitment. We are already on finishing touches although there are still remnants in the mountains of the region,” Buban added.

Buban pointed out that their focus is not only on military actions but also extends to addressing the root causes of the insurgency.

He noted that the region attained six percent Gross Regional Domestic Product growth between 2021 to 2023 as a result of peace efforts.

In Northern Negros the AFP says they have halted the NPA from regrouping after seizing weapons following a clash. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246367

Philippine Army troopers from the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) has prevented insurgents from regrouping in northern Negros and seized weapons from New People’s Army (NPA) remnants following a clash in Toboso, Negros Occidental.

In a report on Wednesday, the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) said the 79IB soldiers engaged at least seven remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front (NNF) in Sitio Bairan, Barangay General Luna Tuesday morning.

After the encounter, the troops recovered various weapons that include an M16 assault rifle, caliber 38mm revolver, firearm magazines and assorted ammunition, along with food items, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

“The fight against insurgency continues, but our efforts are not solely focused on military action. We extend a hand of peace. Lay down your arms, choose a different path,” 3ID commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson said in a statement.

The clash in Toboso came after 79IB troops encountered NNF remnants in the hinterlands of Cadiz City on March 8, resulting in the death of two leaders of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor –Hans Ponteras, acting regional front secretary and finance officer of the Regional Taxation Implementing Group, and regional communications officer Marissa Pobresa.

No word on how many NPA are left in Northern Negros.

In Samar two minors were rescued after a clash with the NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246538

Military and local government officials in Samar province denounced the New People’s Army (NPA) over attempts to recruit minors.

This, after two unarmed female minors were identified and rescued during a clash between government troopers and the rebels in San Jose de Buan town on March 14.

The minors, both 14 years old, were identified under the aliases Jean and Mae. They were handed over to the municipal social welfare and development office and taken to a hospital for psychological support and intervention following the traumatic incident.

Government troops recovered at the encounter site a .45-caliber pistol, a magazine, an improvised homemade firearm, two cellular phones, documents detailing recruitment plans, and other personal belongings.

In a statement Friday, San Jose de Buan town Mayor Joaquin Elizalde said he is saddened that NPA rebels exploit children and recruit them as child warriors and laborers.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that children’s rights are protected and respected. Let us work together to create a place where children can grow up safely, securely, and with dignity,” he said.

Philippine Army 801st Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina said the recruitment of minors by the communist movement is a proof that their numbers are dwindling.

“With the loss of membership over the years, the NPA resort to recruiting young minds, knowing they can easily be exploited,” he explained.

But don't forget the AFP has claimed the NPA is incapable to carry out large scale attacks, recruit, or do anything significant. That is apparently not the case as the Army is also wanting about NPA extortion. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246197

The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) is urging communities in Negros Island to reject any form of extortion by the New People’s Army (NPA) to completely eliminate their illegal activity following the death of the rebels’ regional finance officer, Hans Pontreras.

While the neutralization of Ponteras weakened the financial backbone of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS), the Army said NPA remnants could still be capable of conducting extortion activities, particularly in northern Negros.

“We call for a united action. We urge business owners, local leaders, and other communities to reject any form of NPA extortion and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities,” 79IB commander Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan said in a statement on Monday.

He stressed that putting a stop to the extortion racket of the KR-NCBS is “a huge win for peace and security in the region.”

“Without funds and leaders, their operations crumble, and the communities they once terrorized can finally thrive without fear,” he added.

In an interview, 79IB civil-military operations officer 1Lt. Dan Carlo Samoza said the NPA is actually an organized crime group that uses their so-called ideology to deceive people.

“These are bandits that we are confronting and that while there are remnants, there is a possibility that extortion will continue,” he said.

Ponteras, 48, who died in a clash with 79IB soldiers in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental on March 8, had served as the KR-NCBS acting regional front secretary and finance officer of the unit’s Regional Taxation Implementing Group.

According to the 79IB, he was the author and signatory of extortion letters and death notes distributed under the codename “Armando Magbanua” of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, the main NPA unit operating in Negros Island.

However, intelligence operations and testimonies from former rebels revealed that “Armando Magbanua” is not a single person but a pseudonym systematically used by the finance officer of the KR-NCBS for extortion activities.

Such practice served a dual purpose -- to maintain secrecy and to instill a continuous sense of threat, regardless of who occupied the role, the 79IB said.

In February, 79IB soldiers recovered extortion letters addressed to some sugar planters and businessmen after a clash with NPA remnants also in the hinterlands of Cadiz City.

The NPA still poses a threat even if they are weakened. 

The AFP has given an update on how many NPA rebels have been neutralized since the beginning of the year. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2044792/206-npa-rebels-surrender-17-caught-19-killed-in-ops-since-january-afp

More than 200 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters have been “neutralized” since January this year, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla gave this number.

She also called on NPA members to surrender and “take advantage of government reintegration and amnesty programs.”

The military labels the NPA a communist terrorist group (CTG).

“A total of 242 communist terrorist group members and supporters were neutralized, from which 206 surrendered, 17 were apprehended, and 19 were killed in military operations,” Padilla said in a press briefing on Tuesday.

She added that 159 firearms were also seized from or surrendered by these rebels.

For former members of NPA who opt to apply to the government’s amnesty program, Padilla said the application is open until 2026

“The doors of peace are open only until next year, and we encourage those who remain to take the path of peace,” she said.

The Philippine Army earlier explained that the amnesty program serves as a means to encourage NPA members to abandon their armed struggle, knowing they will be pardoned with all of their criminal cases dismissed.

The government initiative is backed by Proclamations No. 403, 404, 405, and 406 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in November last year.

These proclamations grant amnesty to individuals who committed crimes in pursuit of political beliefs, whether under the Revised Penal Code or special penal laws.

In December last year, Padilla reported that the NPA had only one “weakened” guerrilla front left and that it was no longer capable of “staging major operations.”

Padilla noted that the ‘weakened’ unit refers to a group that can no longer implement programs like recruitment and generate resources to support their members’ armed struggle.

But once again, how many of these people are actual rebels and how many are merely supporters? How many actual rebels are left?

In the Eastern Visayas 433 ex-rebels have applied for amnesty. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246281

The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) already received applications from 433 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas since December 2024, an official said Tuesday.

Of the 433 amnesty applications received, 334 are being processed by the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) in Catbalogan City for Samar Island, while 99 have been applied in Tacloban City LAB for Leyte Island.

During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas press briefing at the Hotel Alejandro here, NAC chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento said amnesty is a big step towards community reintegration of former rebels, whose lives were shattered by decades of armed struggle against the government.

“Through amnesty, the government is giving them an opportunity to make their lives better. We hope that the services and benefits offered by the government for their reintegration will become enough reason for them to stay within the community,” Armamento told reporters.

Crimes classified as acts of rebellion fall under amnesty coverage, while private offenses such as rape are excluded.

These applications go through several offices, including the National Bureau of Investigation, before undergoing verification to confirm that crimes outside the scope of amnesty are not pardoned, according to the official.

Armamento said these applicants are being monitored by LABs, may receive security measures based on the nature and number of their offenses, and are assured that their benefits will be properly processed.

Among the government benefits extended to former rebels include financial assistance, livelihood programs, educational scholarships for children, and government health insurance membership.

The LABs serve as frontline offices tasked with receiving applications from interested parties. They also conduct various information, education, and communication campaigns to raise awareness about the amnesty program, ultimately increasing the number of applications.

Meanwhile in the South the Islamic insurgency is flaring up. There was a clash between DI and the AFP in Maguindanao del Norte.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/17/4-di-members-killed-in-maguindanao-del-norte-clash

Soldiers killed four members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Hasan Group in an encounter in Barira, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday morning, March 17.

The 6th Marine Company of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2, along with the 65th Force Reconnaissance Company and Force Reconnaissance Group, were patrolling Sitio Palao, Barangay Barira when they encountered the group led by alias Alpha King.

A five-minute encounter erupted where four DI members were killed. No casualties were reported on the government side.

The military said three of the fatalities have been identified and their bodies have been claimed by relatives.

Lt. Col. Roden Orbon, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division, said war materials were recovered.

Soldiers are conducting clearing operations and preparing for possible retaliatory attacks.

And two DI bomb experts were arrested in Maguindnao Sur. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2044863/2-suspected-dawlah-islamiyah-bomb-experts-nabbed-in-maguindanao-sur

Government forces on Monday arrested two suspected local terrorists, who are said to be bomb-making experts, and seized from them high-powered firearms, explosives, and other war materiel during a joint police and military law enforcement operation in Ampatuan town, Maguindanao del Sur.

Lieutenant Colonel Loqui Marco, commanding officer of the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion, said police and Army soldiers launched the operation in Barangay Kapinpilan that resulted in the arrest of Ali Kamsa and Justine Balugagosa, both members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Hassan Group.

Marco said both suspects are known to be highly skilled in fabricating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), who are listed in the Army’s order of battle as of last year.

When police and military forces served the warrant of arrest against Kamsa, he did not resist.

Government forces seized from them six assault rifles, two IEDs, ammunition, and a hand tractor they used in transporting war materiel.

The two suspected terrorists are now under police custody while the seized war materiel are kept by the 90th Infantry Battalion.

That the AFP is preparing for retaliatory attacks from the DI shows they too remain a threat. 

Insurgency: Unity Roads

More leaders of the leaderless NPA have been killed in a clash with the AFP. This time in Bukidnon. 

https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/107053/2-alleged-npa-leaders-killed-in-bukidnon-clash/story/

Two alleged top leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.

Troops of the 403rd Infantry Brigade were conducting focused military operation when they engaged the communist rebels, which resulted in the death of two rebel leaders who operated in Bukidnon and Caraga.

A video captured by a netizen showed a helicopter allegedly loading dead bodies.

“Unfortunately, two CTG key leaders died during that encounter ito po ay si Alyas Gali and another one is Alyas Joel,” 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Spokesperson, Lt. Col. Francisco Garello, said.

The military added that the operation was related to the continuing pursuit against the rebel group encountered by the government forces in Barangay Silae on March 5, 2025.

The FA-50 fighter jet of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) was providing air support to ground troops in that operation before it crashed in Mt. Kalatungan.

Recovered from the clash site were four high-powered firearms and other war materials.

“Nandiyan pa si Reda meron pa mga small leaders. We are expecting influx of surrenderers in the coming days or weeks we are reiterating our call,” Garello added.

Why do they say these deaths are unfortunate? Don't they want to see the demise of the NPA? Interesting that the crashed FA-50 jet was providing air support against the NPA before it crashed. 

Once again good governance is being touted as a counterinsurgency program. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1245794

The Joint Task Force Region 8 – End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JTF8-ELCAC) has approved a resolution endorsing to the Regional Development Council 8 (Eastern Visayas) the proposed PHP11.19 billion unity roads to enhance connectivity in the boundaries of Samar Island.

Samar’s provincial government reported on Tuesday that among the approved projects are the Matuguinao-Silvino Lobos Road, Matuguinao-Las Navas Road, Calbayog-Bobon Road, San Jose de Buan-Maslog Road, San Jose de Buan-Las Navas Road, and Calbiga-Borongan Road.

These proposed unity roads, with a total length of 181.17 km., are designed to enhance access among the provinces of Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar.

JTF8-ELCAC members endorsed these projects during their meeting on March 6 with Education Secretary Edgardo Angara, the JTF8-ELCAC chair and Cabinet Officer for the Regional Development and Security 8.

“These unity road projects underscore the importance of road interconnectivity, linking three provinces and reaching geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Expanding road networks ensures efficient delivery of health services and social programs and curbs insurgency by addressing poverty and other social issues,” Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan said in a statement.

Governors in Samar Island have been pushing for funding of key road projects within the tri-boundaries, which have been identified as hiding places of remaining members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Meanwhile, the Philippine Army reported strengthened collaboration among the military, police, local government units, and other stakeholders leading to successful initiatives, such as the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the disruption of illegal activities, and an improved security environment in the region.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division, noted that since 2019, the Army-led JTF Storm has recorded 461 combat engagements with NPA fighters and 791 neutralized communist terrorists.

The campaign also led to the seizure of 1,124 firearms, the recovery of 703 banned anti-personnel mines, and the discovery of 620 hideouts.

Orio cited the importance of continued collaboration and coordination among various sectors to achieve lasting peace.

These road should have been built a long time ago. Sad that it has taken so long for good governance to reach Samar. 

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año says the government is committed to stopping the NPA's efforts to destabilize the government. This is despite the AFP saying they are leaderless and no longer able to do such a thing.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1245982

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año on Thursday maintained that the government is committed to neutralizing the country's insurgency amid attempts by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) “to exploit the situation to further their agenda of destabilization and violence."

Without identifying the specific situation the communist insurgents are attempting to exploit, Año added that he finds the CPP-NPA-NDF’s efforts to undermine the country's democratic government and impose a communist regime “disheartening.”

"I want to assure you that despite this situation, we remain unwavering in our commitment to serve the people and to combat insurgency. We understand the sacrifices that all peace-loving Filipinos have made in the pursuit of peace and development," Año, who is also vice chair of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, said in a statement.

He noted that the country has made great strides in eliminating the insurgency threat, saying it is now the "collective responsibility" of the government to safeguard the progress it has achieved.

"As we move forward, let us stand united in our resolve. Together, we will not only confront these threats but also build a brighter future for our country. Our dedication to peace and development will not waver, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the gains we have made are sustained for generations to come," Año said.

"Let us remain focused and continue to work hand in hand for a peaceful and prosperous Philippines. Together, we shall prevail." 

It's funny that online vloggers who make videos referring to vague unsaid threats are being probed by the police but the head of the NSA can make reference to vague unsaid threats with no problem. How exactly is the NPA attempting to destabilize the country when the AFP has said they are leaderless and unable to do any such thing? 

Meanwhile in the south 21 Muslim insurgents have surrendered. Five are from Dawalah Islamiya.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1245883

Five fighters of the extremist Dawlah Islamiya (DI) group surrendered to military authorities in Maguindanao del Sur, an Army official said Wednesday.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the Army’s 601st Brigade (601Bde), said the group surrendered at the brigade’s headquarters in Barangay Kamasi, Ampatuan town on Tuesday afternoon

Lt. Col. Loqui Marco, commander of the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB), presented the surrenderers to Catu during the ceremony. They are Humidi Salipudin, Jonathan Kamsa, Durham Angas, Nurhan Sabptulah, and Salahuddin Saptula, all members of the DI-Hassan Group operating in the province.

“The group also yielded five high-powered firearms,” Catu said.

Upon their surrender, the provincial government provided them with cash, rice assistance, and agricultural inputs for farming.

Catu commended the provincial government, the BARMM’s Ministry of Public Order and Safety, the Bangsamoro agriculture office, and other stakeholders for supporting the military’s disarmament program.

“I also salute the 90IB for the successful implementation of the Mobile Community Support Sustainment Program that led to the extremists’ surrender,” he said.

Since January, about 100 armed rebels have surrendered to the 90IB and other field units of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) in Central Mindanao. The 6ID’s area of responsibility includes Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and parts of Sarangani and North Cotabato.

And 16 are from the BIFF.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1246102

Sixteen members of the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have yielded and pledged allegiance to the Philippine flag during simple surrender rites held at an Army battalion headquarters in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, on Friday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Al Victor Burkley, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Battalion based in Datu Piang town, presented the BIFF surrenderers to Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade.

“Local officials of Datu Piang helped in the negotiation and processing of the former extremist combatants to laying down of their firearms and their reintegration process back to the mainstream,” Burkley said in a statement Saturday.

He said 12 of the extremists were operating in Datu Salibo town, three in Datu Saudi Ampatuan municipality, and one in Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

They also surrendered 16 high-powered firearms.

As part of the surrender package, the 16 surrenderers received cash, bags of rice, and agricultural equipment from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao government.

“I would like to commend the military, police, and the local government units for supporting our efforts to clear communities of loose firearms as a requirement in establishing peaceful communities,” Catu said in a separate statement Saturday.

Since Jan. 1, more than 600 assorted firearms have been collected by the 6th Infantry Division during law enforcement operations in Central Mindanao.

Both the Communist and Islamic insurgencies are on the way out.