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Key NPA leader surrenders to 23IB in Misamis Oriental

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE REMNANTS of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Misamis Oriental suffered another major blow after a high-ranking team leader surrendered to the 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) on Jan. 13, 2026.

The 23IB operates under the 402nd Infantry Brigade of Joint Task Force (JTF) Diamond.

Military officials stated that the surrender of Jessryl Bacyano, known by the aliases Digos and Amas, marks a turning point in the government’s mission to declare the region completely insurgency-free. 

Bacyano served as the team leader of Squad 1, MTJ Eagles, Sub-Regional Command 1, under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army.

Brig. Gen. Adolfo B. Espuelas Jr., commander of the 402nd Brigade, attributed the success to the 23IB’s relentless “whole-of-nation” approach. 

According to officials, the surrender was catalyzed by sustained military operations that constricted the movement of remaining insurgents, community-based dialogues that eroded the CTG’s local support base, and inter-agency coordination between local government units and law enforcement.

Lieutenant Colonel Glennford Libre, commanding officer of the 23IB, welcomed Bacyano, emphasizing that the doors remain open for those who wish to return to the fold of the law.

“This surrender is a clear indicator that the CTG’s influence in Misamis Oriental is crumbling,” Libre said. 

“Mr. Bacyano’s decision to lay down his arms reflects a growing realization among rebels that the armed struggle is a lost cause. Our mission is not just to defeat an enemy, but to win back our brothers and sisters to the path of peace and productive citizenship,” he added.

Bacyano is currently undergoing documentation and debriefing. 

He will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), a government initiative providing former rebels with financial and livelihood assistance, educational and skills training, and psychosocial support for family reintegration.

JTF Diamond, under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Michelle Anayron Jr., continues to urge remaining CTG members to surrender, emphasizing that the government is ready to provide a fresh start for those who choose peace over conflict.

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23rd IB has new battalion commander

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NEWLY designated 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion acting commander, Lieutenant Colonel Glennford C. Libre, vowed to continue the unit’s mission of upholding peace, security, and community development in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, and nearby areas.

Libre was among the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID) installed as three new commanders to key infantry and artillery units, emphasizing leadership continuity and enhanced mission readiness across its area of responsibility.

 Libre has assumed command as the acting commanding officer of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. 

In his assumption speech, Libre vowed to continue the unit’s mission of upholding peace, security, and community development in Agusan del Norte and surrounding areas.

Libre, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2005, replaced Lt. Col. Chris C. Baloran, who has been reassigned to new responsibilities supporting the Division’s operational and administrative functions.

Libre previously served as the acting head of the Division Reconnaissance Battalion.

The simultaneous change of command ceremonies underscore the 4ID’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains, particularly in counterinsurgency efforts.

Also appointed was Lieutenant Colonel Rey Vergel A. Annogui, who took command as acting commanding officer of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.

He replaced Lt. Col. Albert M. Batingga, whose leadership earned the 30IB a prestigious CGPA Streamer for its contributions to peace in Surigao and Agusan del Norte. 

Annogui is a graduate of the Officer Candidate Course, Class of 2004, and formerly served as deputy assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Allan M. Peñaflor, who was designated acting commanding officer of the 4th Field Artillery Battalion (4FAB), replacing Lt. Col. Victor A. Teleron. 

Peñaflor, also an Officer Candidate Course Class of 2004 graduate, ensures continuity in crucial artillery support across the 4ID’s operational area.

Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4ID, commended both the outgoing and incoming commanders for their dedication and commitment.

Anayron stressed that competent and continuous leadership is vital for maintaining operational readiness, fostering community engagement, and advancing the Army’s mission to protect and serve the people in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Regions.

“The 4th Infantry Division remains steadfast in its commitment to professional excellence, operational preparedness, and collaborative partnerships with local government units, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders,” Anayron concluded.

The outgoing commanders were recognized for their exceptional service and contributions to peacekeeping and development, receiving Military Merit Medals and Command Plaques during the ceremonial turnovers.

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