Leaving the Jungle: The Lived Experiences of Rebel-Returnees in the Province of Isabela

The experiences of former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels are worth investigating as they provide insights that may support community intervention programs. The objectives of this study were to unfold rebel returnees’ experiences before joining the NPA, their experiences as members, and their motivations for surrendering. The research identified the experiences of 12 rebel returnees before, during, and after surrendering to the government. Using snowball sampling and a qualitative phenomenological research design, the study revealed that their lives were difficult due to poverty before joining the NPA. Motivations for joining included the desire to help the community, positive assumptions about the group, the power of words, the attractiveness of the NPA, safety concerns, wanting to be with a spouse, promises of a better future, and an introduction to ideologies that promised to protect their rights. Family objections did not influence their decision. Active rebels recruited them, and a division of labor was evident inside the camp. Life as a member was challenging, marked by deprivation of basic needs and uncertainty about the future. Surrendering was either voluntary or through capture, requiring a pledge of allegiance to the government. Informants warn others to avoid militant groups and to learn from their experiences. The former NPA rebels' journey confirms that recruitment is primarily driven by socio-economic vulnerability, as individuals join due to poverty and gaps in government service, seeking promises the group ultimately fails to deliver. While returnees are grateful for current government livelihood programs, their experiences emphasize a critical need for sustained, holistic, and comprehensive long-term assistance.