The Eastern Mindanao Command has intensified its efforts against the remnants of communist terrorist groups in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga region, its commander Lt Gen. Greg Almerol said.

He said that progress has been made in anti-insurgency efforts following the arrests of at least 10 high-ranking New People's Army leaders in Bukidnon and Surigao del Norte on 8 and 10 September.

Of the total, nine were former CTG members belonging to the NPA's Sub-Regional Committee 5, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee who surrendered to the 403rd Brigade's 1st Special Forces Battalion in Valencia City, Bukidnon.

The Philippine Army said the former rebels have been longing to see their families while the rest were persuaded by their relatives to surrender to the security forces.

The rebel returnees were equipped with high-powered firearms including M16 Rifles, AK47 Rifles, and M1 Carbine Rifle.

Meanwhile, a joint law enforcement operation by the 401st Brigade military troops, Philippine National Police and Philippine Coast Guard resulted in the arrest of Nenita Dolera, the secretary of NPA's Guerilla Front 19, at the port of Surigao City on 10 September.

A warrant of arrest was served to Dolera, who was earlier monitored by authorities heading to Surigao City via fast craft from Leyte, which led to her arrest.

Almerol lauded the military troops under the Joint Task Force Diamond for the accomplishments in the government's fight against insurgency.

"The recent neutralization of CTG leaders in Bukidnon and Surigao del Norte is the result of our relentless collaboration with intelligence units and engagements with their families who long to see them alive and at peace with the government," Almerol said.