A former member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to government authorities in Sarangani Province as intensified internal security operations and community-based peace initiatives continue to gain ground in parts of Mindanao.
The surrender took place on May 15, 2026, during the implementation of Major Internal Security Operation OPLAN KATAHIMIKAN and the Revitalized Police sa Barangay (R-PSB) program in Sitio Gulo, Barangay Laguimit, Glan, Sarangani Province.
Authorities identified the surrenderer only through the alias “Piktoy,” 45 years old, married, and a farmer residing in Purok Bagong Lipunan, Barangay Pag-Asa, Alabel, Sarangani Province.
The operation and surrender facilitation were jointly carried out by elements of the Glan Municipal Police Station and operatives of the 1st Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company, in coordination with personnel from RIU 12, RID 12, SPPO PIU, Alpha Company of the 73rd Infantry Battalion, and the Sarangani Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA).
According to security officials, alias “Piktoy” was previously affiliated with the dismantled Guerrilla Front 71 Squad Uno FSMR under the communist insurgency movement. He was reportedly categorized as Non-PSR Listed (NPSRL) and had allegedly operated in the municipalities of Alabel and Malapatan in Sarangani, as well as in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.
During the surrender proceedings, the former rebel voluntarily turned over one homemade 12-gauge single-shot firearm without a serial number, along with four live rounds of 12-gauge ammunition.
Authorities said the firearm and ammunition were immediately documented, photographed, and secured for proper disposition in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Police and military officials described the surrender as another indication of the continuing weakening of insurgent influence in some communities, as government forces intensify both security operations and reintegration efforts aimed at encouraging former rebels to return to civilian life.
The former CTG member and the surrendered firearm are now under the custody of the 1st Sarangani PMFC for documentation and legal processing.
Meanwhile, alias “Piktoy” is expected to be enrolled under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), a reintegration initiative that provides former rebels with assistance, livelihood opportunities, and support mechanisms intended to help them rebuild their lives peacefully and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Government authorities continue to urge remaining insurgents to abandon armed struggle and take advantage of reintegration programs, emphasizing that peaceful avenues remain open for those willing to return to the fold of the law.