NPA fighter yields, arms seized

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — An active guerrilla of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) descended from his mountain hideout and surrendered, giving a significant boost to government peace and security efforts in Barangay Banglay, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental, the military reported on Sunday.

Brigadier General Edmund Paul R. delos Santos, commander of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, identified the surrenderer as Bobby Compas Sereño, alias “Sidlak,” a 34-year-old resident of the barangay. He was formerly affiliated with the SRSDG MTJ Eagles, SRC 1, under the Northern Mindanao Revolutionary Command.

During his surrender, Sereño turned over one M16 rifle, three magazines, and approximately 2,500 rounds of ammunition.

The military said his decision to return to the fold of the law was made possible through the support and encouragement of his family, highlighting the vital role of community involvement in peace efforts.

With his surrender, the military declared the SRSDG MTJ Eagles dismantled, marking a major milestone in the campaign to achieve Stable Internal Peace and Security status in Misamis Oriental.

Delos Santos commended the troops and emphasized that the accomplishment reflects the effectiveness of sustained operations and strong collaboration with stakeholders.

He also urged remaining members of communist rebel groups to surrender, reunite with their families, and avail themselves of government reintegration programs.