San Miguel, Surigao del Sur — Government troops scored a significant operational victory after neutralizing a top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northeastern Mindanao during a mid-day encounter on April 15, 2026.
Combined elements of the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion and the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, operating under the 401st Infantry “Unite N’ Fight” Brigade, engaged remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the hinterlands of Sitio Bulacan, Barangay Bolhoon, this municipality, at around 12:00 noon.
The operation, led under the proactive command of Acting Brigade Commander Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera, was driven by actionable intelligence targeting the Regional Operations Command (ROC) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), reportedly headed by Edilberto Reponte Daval, also known as “Ka Bong” or “Wako.”
Military reports said a firefight erupted between government forces and the rebels, forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray. They left behind one fatality, identified only as alias “Ka Keroy,” believed to be a member of the ROC-NEMRC.
Troops also recovered five high-powered firearms and assorted war materiel from the encounter site, further weakening the operational capability of the insurgent group.
Authorities said the successful operation stemmed from a tip provided by a local resident who had grown increasingly frustrated with the presence of armed rebels in the area. The informant reportedly disclosed that CTG members had been extorting money and food supplies from villagers—an issue that has long plagued remote communities in conflict-affected zones.
Col. Aynera commended the troops for the successful mission, emphasizing its strategic importance in dismantling the remaining NEMRC structure.
“Your efforts and sacrifices made this success possible. This achievement is aligned with the Command’s objective to clear and dismantle the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee,” Aynera said.
Following the clash, Aynera, along with the commanding officers of the 75th Infantry Battalion and 3rd Special Forces Battalion, personally visited the encounter site to assess the situation and boost troop morale.
The Eastern Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Diamond reiterated their optimism that sustained military pressure and community cooperation will soon lead to the declaration of a peaceful and insurgency-free Northeastern Mindanao—paving the way for accelerated development in previously affected areas.
Military officials underscored that continued vigilance, strengthened intelligence networks, and support from local communities remain critical in ending insurgency and securing lasting peace in the region.