By Philippine News Agency

CHOOSING PEACE. Lt. Col. Mark Tabon (right) of the 29th Infantry Battalion speaks with Edgar Carbonilla after his surrender in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte on Thursday (April 3, 2025). The former New People’s Army fighter turned over two high-powered rifles, citing hunger and hardships in the mountains. (29IB photo)

BUTUAN CITY — Edgar Carbonilla, a combatant of the communist New People’s Army (NPA), has surrendered to government troops in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, citing extreme hunger and hardship as reasons for leaving the armed struggle.

The 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) reported late Thursday that Carbonilla, a member of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Westland, turned himself in at Purok 4, Barangay del Pilar and handed over an M16 rifle, an AK-47 and ammunition.

Seven others from the NPA’s North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee also surrendered on March 24.

Lt. Col. Mark Tabon, 29IB commander, attributed the success to their Mobile Community Support Sustainment Program, which builds trust with conflict-affected communities.

“This reflects our commitment to peaceful reconciliation,” Tabon said.

Carbonilla will be processed for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, which provides livelihood and housing support to former rebels. (Alexander Lopez/PNA)