TALAKAG, Bukidnon — A member of a communist armed group voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Bukidnon over the weekend, turning over a firearm and ammunition as government security forces continue their campaign to weaken insurgent networks in Northern Mindanao.
According to the Philippine National Police, the surrender took place at around 9:00 a.m. on February 21, 2026, at the headquarters of the 1004th Maneuver Company in Barangay Tagbak, Talakag. The individual was identified as a member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) affiliated with Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC-5) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
Authorities said the surrenderer handed over one improvised shotgun with a magazine and three live rounds of ammunition during the turnover.
Police Regional Office officials described the development as part of intensified law enforcement and community-based initiatives aimed at encouraging members of armed groups to return to mainstream society.
Christopher N. Abrahano, regional director of Police Regional Office 10, commended the 1004th Maneuver Company for facilitating the surrender. He credited the unit’s coordination with partner agencies and sustained intelligence and community engagement efforts for the successful outcome.
“The collaborative efforts of our personnel and partner units are crucial in gaining the trust of communities and encouraging individuals involved in insurgent activities to surrender,” Abrahano said in a statement.
The operation was led by the 1004th Maneuver Company with support from the 1003rd Maneuver Company, the Technical Support Company, and intelligence personnel from S2 RMFB 10. The activity was conducted in coordination with the Talakag Municipal Police Station and the Bukidnon Provincial Intelligence Unit.
Police officials noted that the surrender aligns with the ongoing directives of Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police, to intensify efforts against insurgency while strengthening partnerships with local communities.
Authorities said the continuing campaign combines intelligence operations, inter-agency coordination, and community outreach to address security concerns and promote long-term peace and stability in Northern Mindanao, including areas such as Bukidnon.
Officials also reiterated their call for remaining members of armed groups to lay down their weapons and take advantage of government programs aimed at reintegration and support for former combatants.