PNP: Over 15,000 rebels surrendered from 2022 to Jan 2024
FILE PHOTO: This undated photo shows a formation of rebels in an undisclosed location. he Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Monday, February 26, 2024, that more than 15,000 rebels have surrendered and joined the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s Balik-Loob Program from from 2022 until January 31, 2024.
MANILA, Philippines — More than 15,000 rebels have surrendered and joined the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-Elcac) Balik-Loob Program, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Monday.
PNP chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the number of rebel returnees was recorded from 2022 until January 31, 2024.
“A total of 15,092 individuals have surrendered and embraced the Balik-Loob Program through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP),” he said in a press briefing.
“These accomplishments contribute to the diligent work of dismantling terrorist networks and disrupting the flow of funds that support acts of terror. These developments underscore the effectiveness of our resolute military operations in the fight against terrorism,” he added.
READ: Over 10,000 ex-rebels have received livelihood aid since 2016
According to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), ECLIP “is a scheme that promotes reconciliation in a non-violent manner, which aims to provide DILG-administered package of assistance”
to former rebels and former violent extremists.
The program’s package covers “immediate assistance, provision of the reintegration process, a starting capital for livelihood, as well as remunerating surrendered firearms.”
On February 14, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said it aims to eliminate the 11 remaining New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla units nationwide by the end of 2024.
READ: AFP targets to eliminate 11 remaining NPA guerrilla units by end of 2024
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said a timeline was given to military commanders to defeat the NPA in line with the government’s goal to transition to external defense.
AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr reported in January that the number of NPA guerrilla units has declined from 13 to 11.
