115 former members and supporters of KRGL formally withdraw allegiance to insurgent groups and surrender 38 firearms during a peace and reintegration ceremony at Camp Olivas in Pampanga on April 27, 2026, signaling strengthened government efforts toward lasting peace in Central Luzon. (Jason de Asis)
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — A total of 115 members and of the Komiteng Rehiyon–Gitnang Luzon (KRGL) formally withdrew their support from the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in a ceremony held on April 27, 2026, at the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Multi-Purpose Hall in Camp Captain Julian Olivas.
The event marked a significant step in the government’s ongoing peace and security campaign in Central Luzon, highlighting intensified efforts under a whole-of-nation approach to end insurgency in the region.
The ceremony was led by Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), alongside Jess B. Mendez, regional director of PRO3, and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Regional Director 3 (NICA 3) Ulysses Untalan. Officials emphasized inter-agency cooperation as a key factor in addressing insurgency and fostering long-term stability.
During the activity, the former KRGL members and supporters publicly declared their withdrawal and signed a pledge of commitment, affirming their rejection of armed struggle and their renewed support for lawful governance and community development.
In a symbolic act of sincerity, participants also surrendered 38 assorted firearms, underscoring their intent to disengage completely from insurgent activities and return to peaceful civilian life.
A Serbisyo Caravan followed the formal rites, providing medical services, livelihood assistance, and social support programs. The initiative aimed to facilitate the reintegration of former supporters into mainstream society and address their immediate needs.
The ceremony concluded with the destruction of a New People’s Army (NPA) flag, representing a collective rejection of insurgency and a unified call for peace and development in the region.
Mendez commended the participants for their decision, noting that the mass withdrawal and surrender of firearms reflect growing public trust in government efforts.
“This shows that more people are choosing peace over violence,” he said, adding that authorities remain committed to ensuring government services reach all communities.
Ebdane also reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to sustaining peace-building initiatives and inclusive development programs.
Authorities said monitoring and support systems will remain in place to prevent former members from returning to unlawful activities, while community-based programs will continue to address the root causes of insurgency.
Officials described the development as another milestone in the government’s broader campaign to achieve lasting peace and security in Central Luzon. (Jason de Asis)