PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Four individuals, including three wounded, were apprehended by soldiers of the 3rd Special Forces (Arrowhead) Battalion under the operational control of the 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade during pursuit and checkpoint operations in Barangay Das-agan, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur around midnight of March 6.
Upon stopping a “bao-bao” vehicle carrying the wounded individuals, the soldiers immediately transported them to Democrito O. Plaza Memorial Hospital in Barangay Patin-ay, Prosperidad, for medical treatment. The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Prosperidad was also notified of the situation.
Initial investigations confirmed that the four were involved in a previous clash with the military on March 4 at Sitio Sante Fe, Purok 5, Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad, where one alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed, and two firearms were seized.
The captured individuals were identified as:
- Michelle Campos, alias “Chloe/Agong,” 28, resident of Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur (SDS), medical team member of SRSDG, SL, NEMRC.
- Aldren Baguio, alias “Alay,” 29, resident of Zapanta Valley, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte (ADN), Political Guide and member of Squad 3, SRSDG, SL, NEMRC.
- Emelyn Acevido, alias “Mulan,” 30, resident of Purok 4, Barangay Mabuhay, Prosperidad, ADS, medical team member of SRSDG, SL, NEMRC.
- Jun Rey Tejero, alias “Hammer,” 20, resident of Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, SDS, member of Squad 1, SRSDG, SL, NEMRC.
PNP officials confirmed that one of the captured individuals has a pending criminal case.
Col. Emil Cruz, Acting Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, commended the efforts of the troops in ensuring the safety and medical treatment of the apprehended individuals despite their alleged involvement with the communist group.
“SRSDG, Southland (SL), NEMRC is now on the verge of collapse following the death of their comrades and the capture of these four members. To the remaining CTG members, now is the best time to surrender and return to the folds of the law while there is still an opportunity. We will ensure that the captured individuals receive proper medical care,” Col. Cruz stated.
He also reiterated the military’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, international humanitarian law, and human rights in the conduct of their operations.
The Philippine Army, in collaboration with other government forces, assured the public that they remain steadfast in dismantling the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) network while maintaining peace and security in Agusan del Sur and nearby areas.
