Soldiers Recover Remains of NPA Member in Capiz

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By Jennifer P. Rendon

Members of the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion have exhumed the remains of a New People’s Army (NPA) member who reportedly died in late 2023.

The body of Gino Giganto was found in a shallow grave in the remote village of Siya in Tapaz, Capiz on April 21, 2025.

Giganto, also known by the alias Luyong, was a resident of Barangay Lahug, Tapaz, Capiz.

He reportedly died from complications of an untreated illness while hiding in the mountains.

Authorities believe he was about 58 years old at the time of his death.

Giganto was identified as a member of Squad 2 of the dismantled Central Front under the NPA’s Komiteng Rehiyon – Panay.

He joined the armed group in 2021 following simultaneous raids on suspected NPA members and sympathizers in Calinog, Iloilo and Tapaz, Capiz in December 2020, which left nine people dead.

According to former rebels, Giganto began showing signs of illness in 2023 and wanted to leave the group to seek medical help.

“But he was not allowed,” said Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, commander of the 12th Infantry Battalion.

“The harsh conditions of hiding in the mountains exacerbated his illness, ultimately leading to cardiac arrest,” he added.

Garsuta said they received information earlier this month from civilians that Giganto’s body was buried in Sitio Bidang, Barangay Siya.

“We first asked his family about his whereabouts, but they said they hadn’t heard from him in a long time,” he said.

His family, however, already suspected that he might have died.

Garsuta said soldiers trekked for two days to reach the site where the body was buried.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division extended condolences to Giganto’s family.

“The abandonment of Giganto’s body by his NPA comrades, without informing his family, highlights the group’s inhumane treatment of its members,” said Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3ID.

“His tragic death underscores the futility of armed struggle and the misery it brings,” he added.

To prevent similar cases, Samson renewed his call for remaining NPA members to surrender and return to the fold of the law.

“Return to your government and family—those who truly care for you,” Samson said.

“This is your opportunity to embrace a longer, peaceful life, free from fear. The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) can help you build a new and fulfilling life,” he added. (Photos from 12th Infantry Battalion)