MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – Two remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur voluntarily surrendered to troops of the 1st Special Forces (Hunter-Killer) Battalion under the 4th Infantry Division on February 21, 2026, in Barangay Mampayag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

In a press release, the division identified the surrenderers as Jhon Jhon Bokdawan Atipan, also known as Wowie and Doms, and Winalyn Lucdayan Saplidan, alias Marita.

The military said the two are now under the custody of the 1st Special Forces Battalion for documentation, validation, and assessment. They will also undergo processing to determine their eligibility for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Captain Bilver F. Butale, civil-military operations officer of the unit, welcomed the surrenderers and assured them of government support throughout their reintegration process.

Brigadier General Siegfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, renewed the call for remaining members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law.

He emphasized that the military, in partnership with local government units and national agencies, remains committed to helping former rebels rebuild their lives through reintegration programs and livelihood support.

Meanwhile, 4ID Commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. said the surrender reflects the continued weakening of CTG influence, attributing it to sustained military operations complemented by whole-of-nation efforts addressing the root causes of insurgency.

He added that the government remains steadfast in providing lawful and humane pathways for individuals to leave the armed struggle and reintegrate into mainstream society, reinforcing the mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure lasting peace and development in Northern Mindanao and Caraga. (melbmadera)