CARMEN, Surigao del Sur — Two members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) surrendered peacefully to government forces on the morning of March 21, 2026, in Barangay Puyat, marking another setback for insurgent operations in the province.
The 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB), led by Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr. and operating under the 401st Infantry Brigade, facilitated the surrender at around 10:00 a.m. The former rebels turned over two high-powered firearms — an M16A1 rifle and an M14 rifle — both with defaced serial numbers.
The surrenderers were identified as Elmer Hedi, also known as “Akon” or “Bembem,” a member of Squad 1 under the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and Yoyot Hukman, alias “Jurex,” a member of the dismantled Guerrilla Front 16B.
Military officials said the operation was made possible through timely intelligence provided by a concerned civilian, coupled with coordinated efforts between the 36IB and the 41st Military Intelligence Company. This led to the successful neutralization of the two rebels through non-violent means.
According to initial debriefings, the surrenderers cited worsening conditions within their ranks as key factors in their decision to abandon the armed struggle. They pointed to severe food shortages, dwindling support from local communities, and sustained military pressure as reasons behind their disengagement.
The continued deployment of government troops in remote barangays, particularly in the towns of Lanuza and Carrascal, has significantly disrupted the group’s logistics and weakened its operational capacity, further lowering the morale of its remaining members.
Hukman also disclosed that he sustained injuries during an encounter with government forces on January 10, 2026, in Barangay Cayale, Tago, Surigao del Sur. His condition forced him to separate from his unit, and with the assistance of his relatives and coordination with the military, he eventually decided to surrender.
The two former rebels are currently under the custody of the 36IB in Barangay Puyat, where they are undergoing custodial debriefing. Authorities are also processing their documentation to facilitate their reintegration into society through government programs aimed at helping former insurgents rebuild their lives.
Lt. Col. Ante Jr. emphasized that the continued surrender of CTG members reflects the weakening state of insurgent groups in the region.
“The steady stream of surrenders is a clear indication that their organization is losing strength,” Ante said. “We urge the remaining members to trust the government and choose the path of peace. The government is here to help and provide new opportunities for a peaceful and stable future.”