A former rebel who died and was quietly buried by his comrades in Valderrama, Antique, was given a proper and dignified burial by the military.
The deceased, known by the alias Gunning, was a former political guide of the Central Front, Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay, and a resident of Barangay Bungsuan, Dumarao.
His remains were recovered on April 11 by the 61st Infantry “Hunter” Battalion of the Philippine Army at Sitio Mapa, Barangay Culyat, Valderrama, Antique. The operation followed information provided by a former rebel, Alias Boy/Negro, who recently surrendered to the military.
According to the former comrade, Alias Gunning died from complications related to hypertension while evading government forces amid intensified military operations. His companions, including Alias Boy/Negro, buried him in the area without informing his family.
Following the recovery, no relatives came forward to claim the body. In coordination with barangay officials, the Army decided to give Alias Gunning a decent burial at Astorga Cemetery in Dumarao, Capiz.
“The operation commenced at around 11:37 a.m., with Army personnel and barangay officials quietly gathering to perform their solemn duty—grounded in human dignity and respect. Despite alias Gunning’s former allegiance to a Communist Terrorist Group long in opposition to the state, he was given a burial that honored the sanctity of life and the value of redemption,” the battalion stated in a press release.
The military added: “This act was not merely a military task but a gesture of closure—for the community and for the soul of a man who had lost his way. In their view, every person, regardless of past choices, deserves a proper resting place. His burial serves as a poignant reminder of the government’s continuing efforts to dismantle the CTG’s influence in the region—not through violence, but through compassion, reconciliation, and adherence to the rule of law.”
In line with this, the Philippine Army renewed its call for remaining members of the rebel group to surrender and reintegrate into society to avoid further suffering and loss.
“May this serve as a lesson to all remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group. Surrender now and return to the folds of law. Spare yourselves and your families from the suffering and loss that comes with the meaningless armed struggle. Choose a peaceful and better life,” said Lt. Col. Balgos Jr., commander of the 61st Infantry Battalion.
