ILOILO City — The Philippine Army has issued its strongest holiday appeal yet to the remaining communist rebels in Western and Central Visayas, urging them to abandon the armed struggle and reunite with their families as Christmas draws near.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), said the yuletide season should serve as a turning point for rebels who continue to evade government forces despite their dwindling numbers and leadership losses.
“I urge the remnants of the communist rebels to spend Christmas with their families or surrender and reintegrate into society. Forget armed struggle and live a peaceful life with your family,” Samson said, assuring them of safety should they choose to return.
He emphasized that government programs remain open for those willing to lay down their arms: “This yuletide season, we are welcoming our NPA (New People’s Army) brothers to take this chance of visiting their loved ones and feel the spirit of Christmas peacefully in their home.”
The appeal comes as field units report that rebel forces in Panay and Negros have been drastically reduced.
Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, commander of the 12th Infantry Battalion, said recent encounters that began last year and continued into 2025 decimated the Central Front of Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay, leaving only a handful of armed fighters.
“Ilan na lang sila, so if I were them better to surrender kasi wala na silang matatakbohan at wala na mga commanders nila — magugutom lang sila,” Garsuta said, stressing that their “soft hand” approach remains in force to encourage peaceful surrender.
The Army reiterated that continued armed fighting would only prolong suffering, while returning to civilian life offers rebels the chance to rebuild their future — beginning this Christmas./PN