Davao City — In a major victory for security forces, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) neutralized 11 Communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists in a series of clashes from September 7 to 9 in Sitio Tubod, Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. Alongside these neutralizations, troops also recovered 11 high-powered firearms, six anti-personnel mines (APMs), and various war materials, including personal belongings and medical supplies.
The joint operation, led by the 401st Brigade of Joint Task Force Diamond (4th Infantry Division) and supported by the Philippine Air Force, successfully engaged the communist group over several days, culminating in the significant blow to NPA forces in the region.
Key Leaders Neutralized
Among the 11 neutralized NPA members were two high-ranking leaders: Florencio L. Montella, alias Atoy, who served as a political instructor of the Regional Sentro de Grabidad (RSDG) and was the former Secretary of the Peasant Department in the White Area Committee in the Caraga Region; and Felipe Tejero Sr., alias Reb, the Commanding Officer of Platoon 7 of the dismantled Guerilla Front 19 (DGF19), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
Leadership Statements
Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commander of Joint Task Force Diamond (4ID), expressed gratitude for the support provided by local residents, which he said played a vital role in the success of the operation. He also urged the remaining communist terrorists to lay down their arms and choose peace over violence. “We hope they will follow the path of surrender and reintegration for a better future,” he stated.
Lieutenant General Luis Rex D. Bergante PA, Commander of EastMinCom, echoed this sentiment, calling for an end to the violence that has plagued the region for years. “It’s time to put a stop to the bloodshed and join the effort for progress. We are committed to providing those who surrender with rehabilitation, reintegration, and livelihood programs to help them build peaceful lives,” Bergante emphasized.
A Call for Surrender
The EastMinCom continues to encourage NPA members to surrender, offering various government programs aimed at helping former insurgents reintegrate into society. These initiatives provide not only security but also opportunities for those who choose peace, including livelihood support and rehabilitation.
This successful operation represents a critical step toward securing lasting peace in the Caraga region, where government forces remain committed to defeating insurgency and promoting stability.
As operations continue, EastMinCom reaffirms its dedication to working with local communities to bring an end to armed conflict and ensure the region’s safety and development.
