Three members of the New People’s Army surrendered with firearms to the 402nd Infantry Brigade following community outreach operations in Misamis Oriental, the Philippine Army reported. The surrender took place on November 26 at Camp Romualdo Rubi in Bancasi, Butuan City.
The Army identified the returnees as Romano Alicanio, known as Jhondel and serving as vice commanding officer of SRSDG Eagles; Arman Jariol, known as Bilog; and Jenalyn Romano Alicanio, known as Dana. They arrived with high-powered firearms and formally yielded to military authorities.
According to the report, the surrender followed the work of Mobile Community Support Sustainment Teams deployed by the 402nd Brigade and the Misamis Oriental local government. The teams were sent to barangays to assist residents, engage families of remaining NPA members, and strengthen local institutions in areas recently cleared of conflict.
Officials said the MCSSTs helped guide communities in accessing government socio-economic programs, including the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program and the Amnesty Program. These efforts were presented as part of broader initiatives intended to encourage remaining insurgents to leave the armed movement.
During the processing of their surrender, Jhondel told authorities they had grown disillusioned after repeated setbacks and clashes that forced their leaders and fellow members to retreat for safety. He did not provide further details on specific incidents.
Government agencies including the DILG, DSWD, PNP, and the 402nd Brigade will handle the processing of support packages for the three. BGen. Espuelas commended the 58th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Leoncito Grezula Jr. for supervising the community teams and ensuring the safe handover of the former rebels.
The brigade said it hopes the event will encourage other NPA members still in hiding to reconsider and return to government authority.
