CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), backed by Philippine Army and territorial police units, arrested two alleged members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during separate manhunt operations in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on February 20, 2026.
Authorities said the arrests were carried out at around 1:30 p.m. and 2:40 p.m. by the CIDG Lanao del Norte Provincial Field Unit in coordination with other security forces. The operations were conducted by virtue of warrants of arrest issued by courts in Misamis Oriental on January 12, 2026 and August 25, 2021.
According to a report submitted to CIDG Director Robert AA Morico II, the two suspects—identified only by their aliases “Alvin” and “Tibor”—are alleged active members of a CTG operating in Northern Mindanao. “Alvin” is facing charges of murder, while “Tibor” is accused of rebellion or insurrection.
Police said the suspects were linked to Squad 1 of Sub-Regional Committee 1 under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), where they reportedly served as Political Officer and Platoon Guide, respectively. Authorities added that both were listed in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ periodic status reports for the second quarter of 2023 and 2025.
Investigators said “Alvin” was allegedly involved in a fatal shooting on February 4, 2024, in Barangay Sta. Ana, Tagoloan, where a male victim was shot multiple times. The victim sustained 16 gunshot wounds and died on the spot, according to police accounts.
Security officials said both suspects were reportedly recruited into the group in 2017. “Alvin” allegedly became involved in recruitment and organizational work targeting the youth sector before later joining the armed component under Guerrilla Front 4B and assuming the role of Political Officer. Meanwhile, “Tibor” reportedly served as a Platoon Guide within the group’s structure.
The CIDG said the intensified manhunt operation forms part of the priority directives of Jose Melencio C Nartatez Jr., Acting Chief of the Philippine National Police, to pursue wanted persons and dismantle armed groups linked to insurgency.
CIDG leadership also commended Jonathan B Papay, regional chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 10, along with the CIDG Lanao del Norte Provincial Field Unit led by Joselito L Tan Jr., for what officials described as a coordinated and intelligence-driven operation that led to the capture of the two suspects in a single day.
Authorities said the arrests highlight the government’s ongoing campaign against insurgency and armed groups while ensuring justice for victims of violent crimes.
The CIDG assured the public that it will continue to pursue criminals, fugitives, and wanted individuals across the country, emphasizing its commitment to support national security operations and law enforcement efforts.