Three Rebels Surrender Signaling Waning Support for Insurgency in Eastern Visayas

Posted on Feb. 17, 2026 at 2:29 pm

Tacloban City — A couple who were previously involved in rebel activities and another former rebel turned themselves in to government forces in Eastern Visayas last February 4, signaling a decline in support for armed rebellion movements in the region, according to military sources.

The couple, identified as “Norry” and “Dada,” emerged from the remote areas of Matuguinao, Samar, and surrendered, along with an M16 rifle, to the 8th Infantry Division, also known as the Stormtroopers, at Camp Vicente Lukban.

The division reported that the couple cited exhaustion and sustained pressure from military operations as the primary factors behind their decision to surrender. Security operations had restricted their movements and access to resources, while cooperation with local communities had further limited their activities.

Officials noted that in addition to operational challenges, the couple had personal struggles, including prolonged separation from their families and living in constant uncertainty.

In a separate incident, another former rebel, identified as “Ongbak” from Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar, also turned himself in to authorities. He admitted that the lack of community support influenced his decision to lay down his arms.

The military emphasized that the joint efforts of security forces and local government units have encouraged communities to reject violence, coercion, and extortion associated with communist insurgent groups. This shift in mindset is believed to contribute to the growing number of surrenders.

The 8th Infantry Division viewed these recent developments as progress towards lasting peace rather than just a battlefield triumph.

Captain Christopher B. Tataro, Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office, stated that the unit’s mission now includes supporting the reintegration of former rebels, not just engaging in combat operations.  The Division

stressed that their objective extends beyond ending armed conflict to assisting former rebels in reintegrating into mainstream society.

“Our mission goes beyond merely ending armed conflict,” Captain Tataro said, emphasizing their commitment to aiding those who opt to rejoin mainstream society.

Government initiatives such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and the national Amnesty Program are available to former rebels to facilitate their reintegration through financial aid, livelihood support, and other assistance.

Military officials continue to urge remaining members of insurgent groups to surrender, assuring them of government aid and community backing as part of broader peace-building endeavors in Eastern Visayas.

(Photo courtesy: Public Affairs, 8ID)