MACO, Davao de Oro — In a major setback to the remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Southern Mindanao, 24 former members of the dismantled Sub-Regional Committee (DSRC) 4 and affiliated guerilla fronts have voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 60th Infantry Battalion (60IB).
The surrenders took place from August 2 to 4, 2025, at the 60IB headquarters in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, under the command of Lt. Col. Jovily Carmel Cabading. The group included seven regular members and 17 Milisyang Bayan (MB) operatives of the dismantled DSRC 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), as well as remnants of the defunct Guerilla Fronts 33 and 34.
The former insurgents handed over 21 assorted high- and low-powered firearms, now secured by the military to prevent any further threat to local communities. High-powered weapons recovered include two M16 rifles, a Carbine rifle, two Garand rifles, an M1 Garand, a homemade KG9, and a .45 caliber pistol. Low-powered firearms turned in were seven homemade shotguns, two Armscor shotguns, a homemade Ingram pistol, two homemade .357 revolvers, another homemade KG9, and a Garand rifle.
According to the 1001st Infantry (PAG-ASA) Brigade, the breakthrough stemmed from intensified intelligence operations by the 60IB, Kalinaw SEMR, Military Intelligence Group (MIG) 11, and ISAFP, as well as intelligence gathered from a June 19, 2025 encounter in Barangay Sayon, Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur. The deployment of a Forward Observer Detachment in La Paz, Agusan del Sur further pressured the insurgents to yield.
Following their surrender, the individuals underwent custodial debriefings and medical examinations at Kapalong Hospital. They are now being processed for support under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and the Firearms Remuneration Program, which provide livelihood assistance and reintegration opportunities.
BGen. Felix Ronnie B. Babac, commander of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, commended the 60IB’s decisive action in sustaining the gains of an insurgency-free area of responsibility (AOR).
“As we work to preserve our hard-earned peace, I call on every soldier to give their best in achieving our ardent desire for lasting peace,” Babac said. He also urged remaining CTG members to follow suit, adding, “Lay down your arms and reunite with your families. Beyond the conflict lies a better life of hope, peace, and opportunity. We stand ready to welcome you back.”
The 1001st Infantry Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities, neutralizing lingering security threats, and sustaining peace in the region—paving the way for stable and secure communities where families can thrive free from fear.