By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday said 20 members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to authorities from Jan. 16 to 18 through the government’s Oplan “Balik-Loob” program.
In a statement, the Police Regional Office-Region-Central Luzon (PRO-3) said the majority of NPA rebels surrendered on Jan. 14, with seven coming from Liga ng Manggagawang Bukid in Guimba, five from Alyansa ng Mamamayang Nagkakaisa in Laur, and two from Bulacan.
The NPA members and supporters also surrendered their firearms, ammunition, and explosive materials to the local police.
PRO-3 director and PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, commended the collaboration of police units and local communities.
She urged remaining insurgents to leave their activities behind and rebuild their lives.
“These yields highlight our relentless efforts to end violence and foster peace in Central Luzon. We encourage others to embrace the government’s reintegration programs and choose a peaceful, productive path,” Fajardo said in a news release on Sunday.
The government’s Oplan Balik-Loob program provides financial aid, livelihood support and reintegration services to former rebels, while advancing efforts to end local insurgency and promote peace and development in Central Luzon. (PNA)