IMPASUGONG, BUKIDNON — Five members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and Milisyang Bayan (MB) laid down their arms and returned to the folds of the law on November 12, 2025, marking another significant gain in the government’s continuing peace and security efforts in Bukidnon.
The surrenderers include four regular CTG members and one Milisyang Bayan member, who also yielded two high-powered firearms to the 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion. Their return is seen as a strong indication of the weakening hold of the communist movement in the province.
The former rebels were formally presented to the Bukidnon Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee, chaired by Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque and represented during the event by Atty. Gean Yvish Ladesma, the Provincial E-CLIP Focal Person. Committee members from PSWD, OPAPRU, and LAB-CDO also took part in assessing the returnees for benefits and reintegration support.
Officials emphasized that the surrender highlights the continuing cooperation between the military, local government units, and communities in pushing for peace and security across Bukidnon. Through E-CLIP, former rebels are provided financial assistance, livelihood aid, and psychosocial support to help them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into mainstream society.
The 8th Infantry Battalion said it will sustain its peace initiatives and community engagements to encourage more members of the CTG to abandon the armed struggle and embrace a peaceful future.
Authorities reiterated that the government remains open to supporting those who wish to return, stressing that Bukidnon’s development can only be fully realized when communities are free from conflict and fear.