Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr. reported a significant reduction in Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) forces, with insurgent fighters dropping to 1,111 from 2,200 last year, and their firearms cache reduced by about 1,000 weapons.

Speaking at a press briefing following the 6th National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Committee Meeting in Malacañang on Nov. 8, chaired by NTF-ELCAC Chairman and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Brawner said the government anti-insurgency operations have cut weakened guerilla fronts from seven to four.

Brawner cautioned, however, that some remaining fighters are delaying their surrender to capitalize on the upcoming 2025 elections, seeking “permits to campaign” or “permits to win” fees from candidates.

“Most of the remaining fighters want to surrender, but the upcoming elections are a barrier,” he explained, urging political candidates to refrain from paying such fees, as it would only fuel the insurgency and delay its resolution.

To dismantle the remaining guerrilla fronts by the end of 2024, the AFP is ramping up operations and supporting rebel reintegration through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which offers former fighters the chance to reintegrate into society, reunite with their families, and rebuild their lives.

“We tell them the holiday season is an ideal time to return to the fold,” Brawner said, reiterating the government’s commitment to providing amnesty and support.

While acknowledging AFP’s successes, Brawner warned of potential disruptions from remaining insurgents, especially in remote AFP detachments, where occasional attacks may occur.

Despite these threats, he assured that the CPP-NPA’s influence over communities has sharply diminished, as the remaining fighters lack both the training and resources to stage a major offensive.

In strengthening national security, Brawner underscored the AFP’s strategic partnership with the United States, especially in counter-terrorism and regional security efforts.

“Our relationship remains strong, with shared history and agreements like the Mutual Defense Treaty serving as pillars of cooperation,” he said.