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Two rebels yield as CTG influence crumbles in Northern Mindanao

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

TWO REMNANTS of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFB) of the 4th Infantry Division on Feb. 21.

The military identified the surrenderers as alias Wowie/Doms and alias Marita. Both individuals are currently in the custody of the 1SFB for documentation, validation, and assessment to determine their eligibility for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Captain Bilver F. Butale, civil-military operations officer of the 1SFB, assured them of the unit’s full support throughout their reintegration into mainstream society.

Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, reiterated his call for remaining members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to abandon the armed struggle. 

He emphasized that the military, in partnership with local government units and national agencies, will help former rebels rebuild their lives through livelihood support and reintegration programs.

In a statement, 4ID commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. noted that the surrender highlights the continuous decline of CTG influence. 

He attributed this “crumbling” power to sustained military operations complemented by “whole-of-nation” interventions that address the root causes of insurgency.

Anayron added that the government remains steadfast in providing lawful and humane pathways for individuals to leave the armed struggle, reinforcing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ mission to secure lasting peace and development across the Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.

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Valencia City, Army give ₱390,000 aid to former rebels

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE LOCAL government unit (LGU) of Valencia City, in partnership with the 89th Infantry (Makatao) Battalion and the Philippine National Police, formally provided financial assistance to 39 former rebels on Monday.

The turnover ceremony, led by Mayor Amie Galario, took place on Aug. 11, 2025, and saw each beneficiary receive ₱10,000 in cash from LGU-Valencia. 

The total amount of ₱390,000 serves as a local counterpart to the national government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), aiming to help the returnees rebuild their lives and secure sustainable livelihoods after years of armed conflict.

Adding to the significance of the event, the former rebels also formally surrendered 25 assorted firearms. 

This act further demonstrates their full commitment to abandoning armed struggle and embracing peaceful reintegration into society.

The beneficiaries came from various barangays within the city, with the largest group of 26 individuals hailing from Barangay Banlag. 

Other recipients were from Barangays Concepcion (4), Sinayawan (3), Sinabuagan (2), and one each from Dagatkidavao, Lumbo, Lumbayao, and Mabuhay. One of the returnees, known only by the alias “Nokins,” expressed profound gratitude to the government and the Philippine Army. 

He spoke of the opportunity to start anew after facing years of hardship and uncertainty.

Key officials present at the ceremony included Vice Mayor Greizl Galario-Fernandez, former Mayor Jun Galario, City Local Government Operations Officer Jan Eric Manasan, and several Department Heads.

 The military was represented by Lieutenant Colonel Antonio G. Bulao I, Commanding Officer of the 89th IB, and First Lieutenant John Andrew Gloriani, Alpha Company Commander. 

Councilor Rolando Centillas, chairman of the committee on peace and order, was also in attendance.

Lieutenant Colonel Bulao I reiterated the Philippine Army’s dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region.

 He emphasized that the Army will continue to collaborate with LGUs and other stakeholders to ensure that former rebels are fully and successfully reintegrated into mainstream society.

Photo courtesy of 89IB

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NPA couple abandons armed struggle for family life in Butuan City

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

A HUSBAND And wife who were once active members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to government troops in Butuan City. 

The couple, tired of their life on the run, voluntarily yielded on July 12, 2025, signaling their commitment to building a new, peaceful family life.

The military identified the surrenderees as Marjun Sagay Navarro and his wife, Rosemarie Garcia. The military said both were known members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating within the Caraga region. 

As a tangible sign of their decision to abandon the armed struggle, the couple turned over one M16A1 rifle to the authorities.

Their successful surrender was the culmination of a joint operation and sustained community engagement efforts by the 48th Infantry Battalion and the 29th Infantry Battalion. 

These units operate under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, led by Brigadier General Arsenio DC Sadural, and are part of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Rae C. Tizon, Commanding Officer of the 48th Infantry Battalion, commended the dedication and cooperation of his troops and acknowledged the unwavering support from Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, Commanding Officer of the 29th Infantry Battalion.

 “This surrender is a result of our intensified, focused military operations and sustained collaboration with local stakeholders,” Lt. Col. Tizon stated. 

“We encourage the remaining members of the CTG to lay down their arms and take the path of peace. The government is ready to assist them in rebuilding their lives.”

Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, lauded the couple’s courageous decision to embrace peace and focus on their family. 

He described their surrender as a “brave decision that symbolizes hope for lasting peace and serves as an example to others who remain in the insurgency.”

Major General Anayron Jr. reiterated his call for remaining CTG members to abandon the armed struggle, emphasizing that it is “never too late to start anew with dignity.” 

He further highlighted the 4th Infantry Division’s continued support for the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides comprehensive assistance, including livelihood support, skills training, education, and psychosocial services to help former rebels successfully reintegrate into mainstream society as productive citizens.

Photos courtesy of 4th Infantry Division 

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