The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed optimism that it will reduce all remaining guerilla fronts in the country to zero by the end of the year.
"In terms of the strength of the New People’s Army, ay talagang mahinang-mahina na sila. So they only have about 1,111 fighters left from the 2,200 last year," AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in a press briefing on Friday.
Brawner further reported a significant decrease in the number of firearms held by NPA rebels, with their guerilla fronts reduced from seven to four.
"We are expecting that by the end of the year, we will have finished all the guerilla fronts. We will have them reduced to zero," he firmly added.
Brawner stated that the four remaining guerilla fronts include two from northern Luzon, one from southern Luzon, and one from the Visayas.
According to Brawner, many insurgents have signaled their willingness to surrender and reintegrate into the community. Despite this, he reiterated that the government will not let its guard down, and military operations will proceed.
Furthermore, Ernesto Torres Jr., Undersecretary and Executive Director of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), affirmed the government's commitment to staying alert and proactive against terrorist groups.
"We have to be continuously vigilant and supportive of the different socio-economic development programs of the government," said Torres.
The government continues its efforts to encourage members of terrorist groups to return to society, emphasizing that with Christmas approaching, it would be better for them to surrender and reunite with their loved ones.
Meanwhile, insurgents who surrender will be eligible for benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).
