The New People’s Army (NPA) on Panay Island is down to an estimated nine active members, the Philippine Army said, after a surrendered former rebel led troops to a hidden arms cache in Leon, Iloilo, Panay News reported.
Lt. Col. Jekyll Julian D. Dulawan, commanding officer of the Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion (61IB), said information from former rebels shows the group is struggling.
“They are reportedly experiencing internal divisions and leadership challenges, with an estimated strength of only nine active NPA,” Dulawan said.
The Surrender
Alias “Dandan,” 47, surrendered at Camp Monteclaro in Barangay Igtuba, Miag-ao, Iloilo, at around 3 p.m. on October 11. The Army said he was a finance and logistics officer of the dismantled Puregold Platoon under the Southern Panay Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.
He handed over a 12-gauge shotgun with a defaced serial number and three live cartridges.
The Arms Cache
Dandan also told troops where a stash was hidden in Barangay Bucari, Leon. Soldiers recovered it on October 12. According to the Army, it included:
- 45 magazines for M16 rifles.
- A Type C anti-personnel mine or improvised explosive device (IED).
- A detonator.
- Two backpacks with personal items, medical supplies, an NPA song booklet, Communist Party of the Philippines postcards, a sweatshirt, and a hammock.
The Army’s Appeal
Dulawan urged the remaining rebels to lay down their arms and return to mainstream society.
“The improving peace and order situation in Iloilo has also opened opportunities for tourism, livelihood, and economic development,” he said. He pointed to the Maguey Café Project in Tubungan, an agri-ecotourism project that provides livelihood for former rebels, Indigenous Peoples and other residents.
Dandan remains in military custody for debriefing.
Keep in Mind
The figure of nine active members is the Army’s estimate, based on information from former rebels. Panay News did not report any independent confirmation or a response from the NPA.
