CEBU CITY: An Army official on Tuesday lauded an initiative of the soldiers in Eastern Visayas that led to the surrender of two leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA). Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, chief of the Visayas Command, stated that the ‘Wish Upon A Star Project’ of the 802nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army has become a beacon of hope, playing a critical role in the enhanced localized peace engagement.

According to Philippines News Agency, the project capacitates and empowers families of active NPA leaders and members by encouraging them to advocate for their loved ones’ surrender while promoting peaceful reintegration into mainstream society. Through this initiative, two leaders of the NPA in Barangay San Gabriel, in Borongan City, recently surrendered to the authorities.

Lt. Gen. Reyeg highlighted, “The Wish Upon A Star Project has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the military and the communities we serve. By addressing the root causes of conflict and providing tangible support to
the identified family members and loved ones of the members of the terrorist group, we have built trust, reduced tensions, and paved the way for sustaining security and stability in the region.”

The successful localized peace engagement through this project also led to the recovery of numerous war materiel, including 10 high-powered firearms comprising one M60 Light Machine Gun; one K3 Squad Automatic Weapon; two AK47 rifles; four M16 rifles; one M14 rifle; and one M4 rifle.

The project’s whole-of-nation approach, which involves local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector, ensures that the community’s needs and aspirations are effectively met. Lt. Gen. Reyeg further urged, “The success of the Wish Upon A Star Project is a testament to the power of unity and community-driven efforts. I urge the remaining members of the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines) – NPA to seize this opportunity for peace. Return to the fold of the law, and together, let us build a brighter, more
prosperous future for the Visayas region.”