The 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army reported that 236 New People’s Army leaders and members were neutralized in Western and Central Visayas this year.
They initiated 90 armed engagements that led to the neutralization of the rebels, the 3ID reported on Thursday, Dec. 14.
The Army said of the 236, 102 are from Western Visayas and 134 are from Central Visayas. There were 57 killed in encounters, 164 surrendered, and 15 were apprehended, it reported.
The Army also recovered 192 firearms, with 76 classified as high-powered and 116 as low-powered guns.
It said 142 of the captured firearms were from Western Visayas, and 50 from Central Visayas.
About 341 former rebels also benefitted from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) this year, the Army said.
E-CLIP beneficiaries received immediate livelihood assistance, firearms remuneration, reintegration aid, support for individuals in crisis situations, and sustainable livelihood assistance.
Of the 341 E-CLIP beneficiaries, 285 are from Western Visayas, while 56 are from Central Visayas.
With this record, the Army said that they observed a decrease in NPA members in the two regions.
From 214 in 2022, the CTG now has only 146 active members, and its firepower has significantly diminished from 278 last year to 173 in 2023.
Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3ID commander, said the Army will steadfastly uphold its commitment to sustain the gains made in peace efforts, working towards fulfilling the aspiration for a CPP-NPA-free region.*