PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — Government troops engaged suspected communist rebels in a firefight in the hinterlands of Surigao del Sur on Sunday, March 22, resulting in the deaths of two insurgents and the recovery of high-powered firearms, military officials reported.
The operation, conducted around noon by elements of the 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion (36IB) under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr., targeted members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) identified as part of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC). The unit operates under the 401st Infantry “Unite N’ Fight” Brigade led by Colonel Glenn Joy U. Aynera.
The clash occurred in the remote area of Barangay Nurcia in the municipality of Lanuza, where troops encountered armed rebels believed to have been conducting extortion and intimidation activities in nearby communities.
Military reports identified the two fatalities as alias “Ka Rex” and alias “Ka Bunso,” both alleged members of the SRSDG Westland NEMRC. The encounter forced the remaining insurgents to retreat, abandoning their fallen comrades at the scene.
Authorities said the presence of the rebels in the area had been reported by local residents, who had allegedly been subjected to threats and extortion by the group—information that helped guide the military operation.
Following the firefight, government troops recovered four high-powered firearms, significantly weakening the armed capability of the rebel unit operating in the area. Soldiers immediately secured the vicinity to ensure the safety of civilians and to prevent any possible regrouping or retaliatory actions by the fleeing insurgents.
The military emphasized that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and protect vulnerable communities in conflict-affected areas of Mindanao.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of Joint Task Force Diamond, commended the troops for their “professionalism, discipline, and courage” in successfully carrying out the mission.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC), lauded the soldiers’ performance and reiterated the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ commitment to ending insurgency in the region.
Colonel Aynera underscored the importance of community cooperation in achieving operational success, noting that the support of local residents played a crucial role in the outcome of the mission.
“The 401st Infantry Brigade remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. This successful operation is a testament to the strong partnership between our troops and the জনগ we serve,” Aynera said.
Military officials expressed optimism that sustained operations and continued civilian support would pave the way toward lasting peace and stability in the region.