A member of the Communist Terrorist Group has surrendered to authorities in Barangay Mabuhay, Jipapad, Eastern Samar, on May 31, 2026, in what officials described as another step toward lasting peace and stability in the municipality.
The former rebel, identified only as alias “Dannie,” was reportedly a member of Squad 2, Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit Laysan under the Sub-Regional Committee Arctic. He voluntarily renounced armed struggle and returned to the fold of the law to start a peaceful life under the government’s reintegration program.
His surrender was made possible through the efforts of the Jipapad local government, led by Mayor Benjamin E. Ver, in coordination with security forces, community leaders, and his family.
Authorities said continued dialogue, negotiations, and appeals from his loved ones helped convince alias “Dannie” to leave the armed movement and take advantage of government programs, including livelihood assistance, amnesty, and social reintegration support.
Local officials said the development shows the important role of families in encouraging active CTG members to return to mainstream society. They added that the combined support of the local government and family members gave alias “Dannie” the assurance he needed to begin a new chapter.
Following his surrender, alias “Dannie” will undergo the necessary procedures to qualify for government assistance and reintegration programs designed to help former rebels rebuild their lives, pursue sustainable livelihood, and become productive members of their communities.
Officials said the development also reflects the impact of the Whole-of-Nation Approach in addressing insurgency by providing peaceful pathways for reconciliation and reintegration while addressing socio-economic concerns used by armed groups to recruit members.
Military officials said every CTG member who returns to the fold of the law weakens the insurgency movement and helps bring communities closer to achieving Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition.
“The decision of alias ‘Dannie’ to reject armed struggle and return to the fold of the law reflects the positive impact of collaboration among local government units, families, communities, and security forces. We commend the LGU of Jipapad and his family for their unwavering efforts in guiding him toward a peaceful path. His return serves as a reminder that there is always an opportunity for reconciliation and a better future beyond armed conflict,” the 8th Infantry Division said.
The 8th Infantry Division said it remains committed to supporting local government units and other stakeholders in advancing peacebuilding efforts and encouraging remaining CTG members to choose peaceful reintegration, contributing to lasting peace, security, development, and progress across Eastern Visayas.