CARMEN, Surigao del Sur — In a significant breakthrough for peace and security in the Caraga region, the 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion, under the leadership of Lt. Col. Joselito B. Ante Jr., successfully facilitated the peaceful surrender of two members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), including a platoon leader, on August 22, 2025, at the battalion’s headquarters in Barangay Puyat, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.
The surrenderors, both belonging to Platoon 2 of the Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), turned themselves in and yielded two 5.56mm carbines, magazines, and an improvised explosive device (IED) with detonating cord.
One of the surrenderees, who served as platoon leader, made the life-changing decision after realizing that the armed struggle had brought nothing but hardship, fear, and separation from his family. His turning point came when he was reunited with his wife—herself a former CTG member who had earlier surrendered—and met their six-month-old daughter for the first time.
“This is a clear proof that family and peace are far more valuable than the false promises of armed struggle,” Lt. Col. Ante said. “The 36IB is ready and committed to help those who decide to return to the folds of the law and start a new life with their families and communities.”
The Army emphasized that the decision of a platoon leader and his brother to abandon the fight is not only a major loss to the CTG’s operational capability in the area but also delivers a strong psychological blow to remaining insurgents. Their surrender proves that even leaders once deeply entrenched in the movement now choose peace over violence.
Community members also played a crucial role in encouraging the surrender, showing the power of collective support in breaking the cycle of fear and violence. The 36IB acknowledged the invaluable cooperation of local stakeholders, barangay leaders, and family members who stood as guiding voices for reconciliation.
Currently, the two former rebels are under the custody of the 36IB at the Brgy. Puyat Livelihood Village, where they are undergoing documentation and will soon benefit from government reintegration programs that provide livelihood assistance, psychosocial support, and pathways toward a normal life.
The Philippine Army continues to call on remaining CTG members to follow suit, lay down their arms, and reunite with their families. “The doors to peace and progress are open,” Ante stressed, underscoring that government and community collaboration remains the most effective weapon in ending insurgency.
The successful surrender in Carmen highlights the growing momentum of peace efforts in Surigao del Sur—where the combined resolve of soldiers, families, and communities is proving stronger than the grip of insurgency.