Seven alleged members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) surrendered to government forces on February 21, 2025.
The surrender, involving members from various CTG units, was coordinated with the 36th, 65th, and 30th Infantry Battalions, all under the 901st Infantry Brigade. Along with them, authorities recovered low-powered firearms.
The surrenderers were identified as alias Islaw, alias Jigjig, alias Jose, and alias Maria, who turned themselves in to the 36th Infantry Battalion in Carmen, Surigao del Sur. Meanwhile, alias Jego and alias Agila surrendered to the 65th Infantry Battalion in Bayugan, Agusan del Sur, bringing with them an M1 Carbine, two hand grenades, and a revolver with ammunition. Lastly, alias Kawren surrendered to the 30th Infantry Battalion in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.
Their decision comes just days after the death of Myrna Sularte (alias Maria Malaya), the NEMRC regional secretary, who was killed in a clash with government forces in Pianing, Butuan City, on February 12, 2025. She was a high-ranking CPP-NPA leader and one of the country’s most wanted rebels.
“These individuals saw that armed struggle only leads to suffering. Now, they seek a fresh start for themselves and their families,” said Brigadier General Arsenio Sadural, commander of the 901st Brigade.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to peace efforts, ensuring stability in the region while encouraging more rebels to lay down their arms.
