A former member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered a high-powered firearm and ammunition in Lopez, Quezon following coordinated efforts between the military, police, and local officials.
Personnel from the 85th Infantry (Sandiwa) Battalion, the Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO), and barangay officials facilitated the turnover in Barangay Villa Nacaob.
The surrendered items included one M16 Bushmaster rifle, two magazines, 70 rounds of 5.56-mm ammunition, and three rounds of 12-gauge shotgun shells.
Military reports from the 201st Infantry (Kabalikat) Brigade identified the individual only as “Vilma,” a former member of a Sangay sa Partido sa Lokalidad unit, who said the items had been previously hidden inside a nipa hut.
Officials said the surrender was made possible through sustained community engagement and localized peace efforts aimed at encouraging former rebels to return to the fold of the law and relinquish illegal firearms.
According to 201st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Francis Carandang, the development reflects strengthened cooperation among security forces, local government units, and communities in promoting peace in Quezon.
“This accomplishment reflects the strong partnership among the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, local government units, and the people of Quezon,” Carandang said.
Maj. Gen. Ramon Zagala, commander of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division, on the other hand, said the surrender signals the weakening influence of insurgent groups in Southern Tagalog and growing public trust in government peace initiatives.
He encouraged remaining members and supporters of the group to abandon armed struggle and take advantage of reintegration programs being offered by the government.
The 2nd Infantry Division said it will continue focused military operations alongside community-based peacebuilding efforts to sustain stability in the region.