By CESAR JOLITO III

A member of the communist terrorist group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to government authorities at Barangay Panciao in Negros Oriental’s Manjuyod town on Monday, May 18.

During the surrender, the former rebel peacefully turned over a caliber .45 pistol, one magazine, and four live rounds of ammunition.

Authorities said the surrender was made possible through the intensified anti-insurgency operations of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, carried out by personnel of the 1st Maneuver Platoon, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company.

Police officials credited the development to sustained community engagement and localized efforts aimed at encouraging members of insurgent groups to return to the fold of the law.

In a statement, the Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region reiterated its call for remaining CTG members to abandon armed struggle and instead take advantage of government reintegration programs.

Authorities assured that former rebels who surrender will be provided assistance under various government support initiatives, including livelihood aid, skills training, financial support, and reintegration programs designed to help them transition back to civilian life./CJ, WDJ