Another former child warrior yields to 12th IB

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Calinog, Iloilo,– Another former child warrior of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Panay has voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 12th Infantry “Lick ‘Em” Battalion.

A 35-year-old surrenderee, known by his aliases Todyo and Benjie, served as a team leader of the dismantled Central Front (CF), Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.

Alias Todyo revealed that he joined the terrorist group when he was 17 years old. He disclosed that life within the group was marked by severe hardships and discontent. His decision to surrender was driven by the unfulfilled promises of financial support. Feeling abandoned and betrayed, he decided to leave the armed struggle and seek a harmonious and peaceful life with his family.

Todyo was also presented to the Local Chief Executives of Aklan, Mayor Charito Navarosa of Libacao, and Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores of Aklan Province. They pledged their all-out support to aid Todyo in his integration into mainstream society.

12IB Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, lauded Todyo’s brave decision to surrender, saying, “We welcome his surrender and his desire for peace. This decision not only ends his struggles in the mountains but also allows him to rebuild his life with dignity. The Philippine Army remains committed to supporting those who choose the path of peace like Todyo.”

LTC Garsuta said that the surrenderee is now under the custody of the 12IB and will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“Through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration, Todyo will receive comprehensive support to reintegrate into society. This includes access to livelihood opportunities, skills training, and psychosocial support. He was a victim of the CTG’s deceitful recruitment tactics and endured immense hardship. As a victim, he deserves to heal and rebuild his life with the support of his family, community, and government. We urge the remaining NPAs to take a cue from Todyo, return to the fold of the law, and avail themselves of the government’s E-CLIP. Start a new and normal life with your loved ones,” LTC Garsuta added.

Last November 7, two former child warriors identified as alias Kate, 20, and alias John, 22, both members of the dismantled CF, KR-P, also surrendered to the 12IB. They were recruited when they were both 17 years old.

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