A member of a communist terrorist group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Barangay Luz Village, M’lang, North Cotabato, on February 20, 2025, as the military intensifies its campaign against terrorism and loose firearms in the Bangsamoro region.
The Joint Task Force (JTF) Central facilitated the surrender of the former guerilla fighter, who was identified as a member of the Guerilla Front Alip of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) under the alias “Jing-Jing.” The former rebel turned over an M16A1 rifle along with a magazine containing 20 rounds of live ammunition.
Following his surrender, he was taken to Deseret Surgimed Hospital in Barangay Kayaga, Kabacan, North Cotabato, for medical attention. He is also set to receive support from local government units (LGUs) under reintegration programs designed to assist former rebels in transitioning to peaceful and productive lives.
Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), lauded the efforts of JTF Central in securing the surrender, emphasizing the military’s role in restoring peace in conflict-affected communities.
“Our forces continue to carry out resolute counter-terrorism operations to prevent any form of violence that threatens the progress of our communities,” Nafarrete stated. “I commend JTF Central for their unwavering efforts in dismantling terrorist groups. Let us persist in building a better Bangsamoro.”
He also urged other insurgents to lay down their arms and avail themselves of the government’s Balik-Loob Program, which provides various forms of assistance and legal protection to those who choose to reintegrate into society.
Currently, the surrendered individual and his firearm are under the custody of the 602nd Infantry Brigade (602Bde) for proper disposition.