MAWAB, DAVAO DE ORO – Government security forces successfully captured a key leader of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) along with seven other alleged members during joint military and police operations in Agusan del Sur on June 13, 2025.
Troops under the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division of the Philippine Army, in coordination with the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13), conducted simultaneous operations in Barangay Bunawan Brooke and Barangay San Teodoro, Bunawan, resulting in the arrest of Charisse Bernadine Bañez, alias “Nikki,” the Regional Party Secretary of the SMRC.
Also apprehended were:
- Ronnie Igloria, alias “Gideon,” Vice Commanding Officer
- Louvaine Erika Espina, alias “Pam,” the group’s medic
- Sinag Lugsi, alias “Jomilyn”
- Larry Montero, alias “Laloy”
- Daryl Man-Inday, alias “Tonton”
- Arjie Guino Dadizon, alias “Ronron”
- Grace Niknik Man-aning, alias “Jelyn”
Major General Allan Hambala, Commander of the 10ID, lauded the joint operation as a major setback for the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), saying it significantly disrupted the group’s operational capacity in the region.
“This apprehension marks a decisive victory against the remaining elements of the SMRC. It reflects the unwavering dedication of our troops and our partners in the PNP to safeguard the peace we have established in our communities,” he said.
The recent operation follows earlier gains against the group, including the neutralization of Elbert Echavez, alias “Aldrin,” the RSDG Jaguar Head, on April 27, and Jeffry Casal, alias “Lalai,” Vice Team Leader, on May 10, by the 67th Infantry Battalion.
The 10ID and PRO-13 reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining pressure on remaining insurgent forces and maintaining peace and order across their area of responsibility.