PLACER, Surigao del Norte – Seven members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) have surrendered to government forces in the Caraga Region. They also turned over two low-powered firearms in a coordinated effort with the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), 65th Infantry Battalion (65IB), and 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), all under the Operational Control (OpCon) of the 901st Infantry Brigade. The surrender took place on February 21, 2025.
The individuals who surrendered include Chrytal Malaya Sagbigsal, alias Islaw, an instructor under the HQF Staff; Jerry Orvoc Manliguis, alias Jigjig, a member of SRSDG Westland; and Militia ng Bayan members Gilbert Quiñonez Azarcon, alias Jose, and Vangelyn Alimbuyong, alias Maria. They turned themselves in to the 36IB under Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Viray in Barangay Puyat, Carmen, Surigao del Sur.
Additionally, Marjun Tumambad Gubay, alias Jego, and Firmin Villatura Iligan, alias Agila, members of SRSDG Southland, surrendered to the 65IB under Lieutenant Colonel Ray Anthony Sisican in Barangay Calaitan, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur. They handed over one M1 Carbine rifle with magazines and ammunition, two hand grenades, and one revolver with ammunition. Meanwhile, Rodel Enano Hidi, alias Kawren, a member of Regional Sentro de Grabidad (RSDG), surrendered to the 30IB under Lieutenant Colonel Albert Batingga in Barangay Mahanub, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.
The decision to surrender followed the death of Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, the Regional Secretary of NEMRC. Sularte was killed during an encounter with government forces in the hinterlands of Pianing, Butuan City, on February 12, 2025. She was considered a high-ranking leader and one of the most wanted Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) personalities in the country.
Brigadier General Arsenio Sadural, Commander of the 901st Brigade, emphasized that many of the surrenderers realized the futility of armed struggle. “Most of these individuals recognized that the path of violence was leading only to more loss and despair. Choosing to abandon armed struggle, they now seek a new beginning and the possibility of peace for themselves and their families,” he stated.
The 901st Brigade, along with its OpCon Battalions, remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in the Caraga Region. Efforts to maintain peace and stability continue, with the goal of encouraging more former insurgents to reintegrate into society and lead peaceful lives.