SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon — In a significant boost to the government’s ongoing peace and security efforts in Northern Mindanao, three members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to authorities on February 10, 2026, signaling their decision to abandon armed struggle and embrace a new beginning.
The surrender took place at the headquarters of the 1003rd Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB 10), in Sitio Colon, Barangay Halapitan, San Fernando, Bukidnon. The operation was carried out through the coordinated efforts of the 1003rd Maneuver Company and several police and intelligence units, including S2 RMFB 10, RID 10, BUK PIT-RIU 10, 13SAC, 1SAB PNP-SAF, RPSB San Fernando, RPSB Cabanglasan Cluster, San Fernando Municipal Police Station, and Bukidnon Police Intelligence Unit.
Former CTG Members Lay Down Arms
Authorities identified the surrenderers as Ayan, 29, a former team member of Guerrilla Front 89 under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC); Dario, 42, a former squad member of Guerrilla Front Malayag, SRC 2, NCMRC; and Ronnie, 24, a former supply officer of the same unit. Their real names were withheld for security reasons.
Ayan surrendered at around 2:40 p.m., yielding a homemade shotgun and several rounds of 12-gauge ammunition. Dario and Ronnie followed at around 4:00 p.m., each turning over their own improvised shotguns, magazines, and ammunition. All three are residents of Bukidnon province.
The firearms and ammunition were immediately secured and placed under the temporary custody of the unit’s supply office, while the former rebels were turned over to intelligence operatives for custodial debriefing and profiling.
Strengthened Community Relations Cited
PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10, said the surrender reflects the Philippine National Police’s strengthened community engagement and sustained campaign against CTG remnants.
“This development shows that our community-based approach and intensified intelligence efforts are bearing fruit. It demonstrates that more individuals are realizing that peace and lawful living offer a better future than armed conflict,” Abrahano said.
He added that the surrender underscores the growing trust between local communities and law enforcement agencies, which continues to play a crucial role in weakening insurgent networks in Northern Mindanao.
Support for Reintegration and New Beginnings
The three former CTG members are currently undergoing custodial debriefing and profiling as part of standard procedures. Authorities said this process will help determine their eligibility for government assistance and reintegration programs aimed at helping former rebels return to productive civilian life.
Police officials reiterated that those who surrender voluntarily may benefit from various government programs, including livelihood assistance, skills training, and psychosocial support.
Abrahano also urged other remaining CTG members to follow the example set by the surrenderers.
“We continue to call on those who are still in the armed struggle to lay down their weapons and return to the fold of the law. The government is ready to help them rebuild their lives and become active partners in nation-building,” he said.
Aligned with National Peace and Security Directives
The successful surrender operation is in line with the directives of PNP Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., particularly in strengthening police-community relations and sustaining efforts to dismantle insurgent groups.
Authorities emphasized that such accomplishments contribute to creating a safer environment and fostering long-term peace, stability, and development across Northern Mindanao.
With the continued cooperation of communities and security forces, the PNP expressed optimism that more former rebels will be encouraged to abandon violence and choose the path of peace, reconciliation, and lawful living.