AFP Reports Nearly 500 NPA Rebels Neutralized in First Quarter of 2026
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has disclosed that close to 500 members and supporters of the New People's Army (NPA) were neutralized during the initial three months of 2026. This significant development underscores the ongoing efforts to address insurgency in the country.
Breakdown of Neutralized Individuals
According to AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla, a total of 482 NPA rebels and their supporters were neutralized from January 1 to March 26, 2026. The term "neutralized" encompasses individuals who have surrendered, been arrested, or killed in military operations.
The detailed figures reveal that 446 rebels chose to surrender, while 18 were apprehended and another 18 were killed in various operations conducted across the nation. Colonel Padilla emphasized this trend, stating, "Mas marami po ang sumusuko kesa sa lumalaban (More opt to surrender than to fight)."
Military Successes and Humanitarian Impact
In addition to the neutralizations, the AFP reported the recovery of 304 firearms and 79 anti-personnel mines during this period. Furthermore, 18 NPA camps were captured, highlighting the military's strategic gains.
Colonel Padilla highlighted the broader implications of these surrenders, noting, "And when people choose to return to the fold of the law, that is not just a win for security, that's a win for humanity." This statement reflects the dual focus on security and social reintegration.
Comparison with Previous Year
The data for the first quarter of 2026 shows a continuation of trends from the previous year. In 2025, the AFP neutralized 2,018 NPA rebels and supporters, with 1,798 surrendering, 93 arrested, and 127 killed.
Authorities also recovered 1,134 firearms and 531 anti-personnel mines, while seizing 149 NPA encampments throughout 2025. These figures indicate sustained military pressure and successful operations against the rebel group.
Regional Incident Highlights Surrender Trend
A recent example of this trend occurred on January 25, 2026, in Mondragon, Northern Samar, where an NPA rebel surrendered a firearm to the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 (Eastern Visayas). This incident, captured in a photo courtesy of RMFB-8, visually represents the increasing number of rebels opting to lay down their arms.
The AFP's ongoing operations and the rising surrender rates suggest a shifting dynamic in the conflict, with more rebels seeking peaceful resolutions. The military remains committed to its efforts to ensure national security and support those returning to lawful society.
