Manila, June 23 -- The Philippine Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade is set to launch more aggressive operations against the remaining members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Leyte Island and parts of Samar provinces following the expiration of an ultimatum on July 15.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Brigade, said Monday that plans are in place to fully eradicate the insurgency in the region if the rebels refuse to surrender.

"To the remnants of the NPA, we are giving you ultimatum. The time to return to the folds of the law is now. Choose peace. Choose life. All or nothing, now or never!" Vestuir said in an interview on Monday.

Under the offer, cash assistance will be provided to groups of rebels from the same province if...