The Philippine Army’s 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion, in coordination with the Gingoog Police Station and the Scene of the Crime Operatives, recovered skeletal remains believed to belong to a New People’s Army combatant in Sitio Mangilet, Barangay Bal-ason, Gingoog City on Dec. 18, 2025.
The recovery followed the voluntary disclosure of a burial site by former NPA member Mario Romano Alicanio, also known as “Zero,” during custodial debriefing, the Army said.
Troops exhumed remains believed to be those of Junnry Lamumay Ayuma, alias “Rebo,” who was identified as a former NPA platoon commander. The Army said Ayuma was killed during an encounter with the 58th Infantry Battalion in 2021 in the same area.
The battalion said the remains were handled with respect and dignity despite the individual’s past affiliation, allowing for proper identification and eventual burial by the family. Authorities said the skeletal remains are undergoing examination to confirm the identity.
Once identification is completed, the local government unit of Gingoog City will assist in providing appropriate burial rites, according to the Army.
Lt. Col. Leoncito Grezula Jr., commanding officer of the 58th Infantry Battalion, said the operation reflected the Army’s respect for human life. He said it also served as a reminder of the consequences of violent extremist ideology.
Grezula reiterated the government’s continuing offer of peace and support to active NPA members who choose to surrender. He said the Army remains committed to peace-building, reconciliation and community healing in Misamis Oriental.
The 58th Infantry Battalion urged remaining members of armed groups to abandon violence and choose a peaceful and dignified life, the Army said.
