CARMEN, Surigao del Sur — In a major blow to the communist insurgency in Northeastern Mindanao, two senior leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) have surrendered to government forces in Sitio Cagpangi, Barangay Cabangahan, Tago, Surigao del Sur, on October 3, 2025.
The surrender of the NPA officers marks a significant milestone in the Philippine Army’s continuing campaign to dismantle the remaining structures of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the Caraga region. The peaceful turnover was made possible through intensified military operations and community engagement spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr., Commanding Officer of the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion.
The surrenderers were identified as Demar Quinonez Montenegro, also known as “@JANSEN,” Vice Commanding Officer of Platoon 2, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and Jacheel Canon Ayoste, alias “@RIZA,” a medic of the same unit. Both were considered priority targets for their significant roles in the armed movement.
Following their surrender, the two former rebels disclosed vital information leading to the discovery of hidden firearms and explosives used by their group. Acting on their intelligence, the 36IB launched a follow-up operation that resulted in the recovery of several war materiel in the hinterlands of Tago, Surigao del Sur.
Among the recovered items were one M16 rifle, one AK-MS Soviet-type assault rifle, three rifle grenades, fifteen rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two long steel AK magazines, and assorted medical paraphernalia.
LTC Ante commended the former rebels for their courage and his troops for their continued dedication to restoring peace in the region.
“The voluntary surrender of these high-ranking CTG personalities is a clear testament to the effectiveness of our focused military operations, backed by the whole-of-government approach,” Ante said. “Their decision to abandon the armed struggle opens a door to peace — not only for themselves but also for the communities that have long suffered under CTG influence.”
The Philippine Army, in coordination with local government units and other stakeholders, continues to encourage remaining CTG members to surrender and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and the Amnesty Program available until March 2026. These initiatives offer financial, livelihood, and reintegration support to former rebels seeking a new beginning.
As the government intensifies efforts toward lasting peace and inclusive development, the surrender of Montenegro and Ayoste stands as a reminder that peace is not only possible — it is within reach.