CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — A total of 115 members and supporters of Komiteng Rehiyon–Gitnang Luzon (KRGL) formally withdrew their support from the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during a significant ceremony held on Monday (April 27) at the PRO3 Multi-Purpose Hall, Camp Captain Julian Olivas, marking another milestone in the government’s intensified peace and security efforts in Central Luzon.
The activity was led by Zambales Governor Hon. Hermogenes “Jun” Ebdane Jr., Chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), alongside PBGEN Jess B. Mendez, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), and NICA Regional Director Ulysses Untalan, underscoring the strong collaboration among government agencies in addressing insurgency through a whole-of-nation approach.
During the ceremony, the former members and supporters publicly declared their withdrawal of support and renewed their commitment to the government. They also formally signed a Pledge of Commitment, affirming their rejection of the CTG and their support for peace, lawful governance, and community development.
In a strong gesture of sincerity, the participants further presented and turned over a total of 38 assorted firearms, symbolizing their complete disengagement from armed struggle and their willingness to embrace peaceful and lawful means of living.
Following the withdrawal rites, signing of the pledge, and presentation of firearms, a Serbisyo Caravan was conducted, bringing together various government agencies to deliver essential services such as medical consultations, livelihood assistance, and social support programs—aimed at facilitating the reintegration of former supporters into mainstream society.
The activity culminated in the destruction of an NPA flag, symbolizing the community’s firm rejection of insurgency and unified stand for peace and development.
PBGEN Mendez lauded the participants for their courageous decision and emphasized the importance of unity and trust between the community and the government.
“This mass withdrawal, signing of commitment, and surrender of firearms clearly show that our people are choosing peace over violence. It reflects growing public confidence in the government and the effectiveness of our sustained efforts under the whole-of-nation approach. We remain committed to supporting those who return to the fold of the law and ensuring that government services reach every community,” he said.
Governor Ebdane likewise reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to sustaining peace-building initiatives and inclusive development programs.
Authorities assured continuous monitoring and support mechanisms for the former members to prevent their re-engagement in unlawful activities, while further strengthening community-based initiatives to address the root causes of insurgency.
This development reinforces the government’s commitment to achieving lasting peace and security in Central Luzon through collaboration, service delivery, and community empowerment. (UnliNews Online)
