CARMEN, Surigao del Sur — A former member of the Dismantled Guerrilla Front 30 (DGF30) under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) has voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army, subsequently leading government troops to an arms cache containing an M14 rifle, six rifle grenades and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.
The surrender was facilitated by the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army, through its Community Development Support Team (CDST) as part of continuing efforts to strengthen stable internal peace and security (SIPS) in Surigao del Sur.
Following his voluntary surrender, the former DGF30 member provided information on the location of the arms cache in Cantilan. Acting on the information, Army troops immediately conducted a recovery operation that resulted in the retrieval of one M14 rifle, six rifle grenades and two IEDs equipped with wires and switches.
The recovery removed firearms and potentially dangerous explosive devices from an undisclosed location and placed them under government custody, preventing them from remaining accessible for possible use by armed elements.
The 36IB commended the participating troops for their discipline, dedication and commitment in carrying out the operation. The battalion also highlighted the importance of community cooperation and engagement in identifying and addressing security concerns in areas formerly affected by armed conflict.
The development underscores how surrender and community-based engagement can contribute not only to the reintegration of former members of armed groups but also to the recovery of firearms and other war materiel that could otherwise pose a continuing security threat.
For the Philippine Army, the voluntary surrender and subsequent recovery of the arms cache form part of broader efforts to sustain peace and prevent the resurgence of armed activities in Surigao del Sur.
The 36th Infantry Battalion said it will continue strengthening its partnership with local government units, communities and other stakeholders to maintain peace and security while supporting initiatives aimed at preventing the return of armed groups.
The Army maintained that sustained cooperation between government forces and communities remains essential in consolidating peace gains and creating a more secure environment for development across Surigao del Sur.