Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat — In a major breakthrough against local insurgency, security forces arrested one of the most wanted leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) during a joint law enforcement operation in Barangay Limulan, Kalamansig, on July 20, 2025.
The suspect, identified as Domingo Cranzo, also known by his aliases “Goliat” and “Pedro,” is the Vice Team Leader of Squad 2, Platoon 2 of SRC Daguma. Cranzo was apprehended by joint elements of the 37th Infantry “Conqueror” Battalion led by LTC Christopherson M. Capuyan, the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion under 2LT Jordan L. Patiogo, and the 2nd Sultan Kudarat Provincial Mobile Force Company under PCPT Aivan Ga-as Gabucayan.
Authorities said the operation was the result of intensive surveillance and coordination among military and police units. Cranzo is implicated in multiple terror-related activities, including armed ambushes, harassment of civilians, and recruitment of minors into the armed movement. He was also involved in a recent firefight on July 19 in Datu Ito Andong, Kalamansig, where three NPA members and one government soldier were killed.
“This arrest is a significant milestone in our continuing efforts to combat terrorism and rebellion,” said LTC Capuyan. “It sends a strong message that no one is above the law.”
Cranzo holds the distinction of being the Top 4 Most Wanted Person at the regional level. He faces charges under Criminal Case No. 24-29791 for violations of Republic Act 11479, also known as the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and under Criminal Case No. 24-8189-SNA for murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code.
He is now under police custody and will face appropriate legal proceedings.
Authorities emphasized that the arrest forms part of the government’s intensified initiative to end local communist armed conflict and restore peace and order in conflict-affected areas.