NINE high-ranking New People's Army (NPA) rebels have surrendered to government authorities in Valencia City, Bukidnon.

The NPA surrenderers were identified as Raquel Dahoyla, Joen Morales, Daniel Layanan, Mary Jean Cololot, Nelbert Binungkasan, Warren Balanse, Walisa Tinampakan, Marlon Ampoan, and Rey Unabia.

According to Colonel Ted Dumosmog, the officer-in-charge of 403rd Infantry Brigade, the longing to see their families, as well as being pressured by them have prompted the nine NPA rebels to surrender on September 8, 2022.

“Upon surrender, they were made to undergo medical check-up before being processed at Valencia City Police Station. Indeed, it is fulfilling to assist and see returning misguided brothers reunited with their families,” Dumusmog said.

The NPA surrenderers turned over six high-powered firearms, namely, three M16 rifles, two AK47 rifles, and one M1 Carbine rifle.

Major General Wilbur Mamawag, the commander of the 4th Infantry Division, for his part, lauded the combined efforts of the 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFBn) of the 403rd Infantry Brigade.

"We are now reaping the peace dividends of our convergence efforts under the Task Force Elcac. We therefore encourage those remaining and hardened CTG members to listen to the cry of your left-behind families and to do not hesitate to follow your surrendering companions," Mamawag said.

"The government has consistently demonstrated its sincerity to accept you back with better opportunities. It’s not yet too late," he added.