CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In a renewed push for peace and security in the Caraga Region, three members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) voluntarily surrendered to government troops under the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army, on July 13, 2025.
The surrenders happened in two separate locations in Agusan del Norte. At around 9:00 a.m., June Elmar P. Butao, alias Joshua, turned himself in to military authorities in Barangay Baobawan, Butuan City. He brought with him an M16A1 rifle.
Two hours later, at approximately 11:00 a.m., Pio Morales Patis, alias Jethro/Paps, and Judy Ann Lozada Urbistondo, alias Badang/Aubrey, surrendered to soldiers of the 29th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City. Patis handed over a .45 caliber pistol, while Urbistondo surrendered an AK-47 rifle.
The surrendered weapons included one AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 20 rounds of ammunition, one .45 caliber pistol, and the M16A1 rifle earlier turned in by Butao.
The Philippine Army credited the successful surrender to intensified intelligence operations by the 29th Infantry Battalion, as part of a broader campaign to weaken the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) influence in the region.
Brigadier General Arsenio DC Sadural, Commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, said the development highlights the effectiveness of localized peace efforts.
“Their decision to return to the fold of the law shows the effectiveness of our focused military operations and localized peace efforts. We commend their courage in choosing a new path,” Sadural said. He added that the former rebels are currently undergoing custodial debriefing and will soon be enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), which offers livelihood and reintegration assistance.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., 4ID Commander, lauded the operating troops for their unwavering efforts and emphasized the command’s continued commitment to persuading other NPA members to abandon the armed struggle.
“The Diamond troopers remain firm in our mission to end the local communist armed conflict. We continue to intensify our peace and development campaign across Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Regions,” Anayron said.
The military has reiterated its call for remaining CTG members to surrender, assuring them of government support should they choose to embrace a peaceful and productive life.