PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — Government troops successfully neutralized a high-ranking leader of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and captured another rebel during an armed encounter in Sitio Casting, Barangay Bayan, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on Monday, May 11, 2026.
The military operation was carried out by joint forces from the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion led by Lt. Col. Earl C. Pardillo and the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion under Lt. Col. Jayson F. Pangandoyon, both operating under the 401st Infantry Brigade.
According to the military, troops engaged members of the New People’s Army (NPA), resulting in the death of Edilberto Daval, also known by his aliases “Bong,” “Waco,” and “Bill.” Daval was identified as the 2nd Deputy Secretary of the Executive Committee of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) and Commanding Officer of the Regional Operations Command (ROC), NEMRC.
Authorities also confirmed the capture of Jaymark Bada Lamela, alias “Miggy” or “Migz,” who was identified as a security member of the ROC, NEMRC.
Government forces recovered one Tavor TAR-21 assault rifle and one R4 rifle from the encounter site.
Military officials said the latest operation is part of intensified efforts to dismantle the remaining armed capabilities of the CTG in Northeastern Mindanao. The encounter came weeks after another military operation on April 17, 2026, which led to the death of Lucena Candia, alias “Louise” or “Madi,” the wife of Daval and an alleged CTG member.
Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera, Acting Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, described the development as a significant blow to the rebel movement in the region.
“This development marks the continuing collapse of the CTG’s leadership and operational capability in NEMRC,” Aynera said. “The neutralization of key CTG personalities disrupts their remaining network and reflects the effectiveness of sustained military operations and strong community support in maintaining peace and security in the region.”
Aynera also renewed the military’s call for remaining rebel members to surrender and avail of government reintegration programs.
“We continue to call on the remaining CTG members to abandon the armed struggle and return peacefully to the folds of the law while they still have the chance,” he added. “The government is ready to assist them through various reintegration programs so they can rebuild their lives and reunite with their families.”
The Armed Forces of the Philippines has continued its focused military campaign against insurgent groups in Mindanao, particularly in areas identified as former strongholds of the NPA. Authorities said pursuit and clearing operations remain ongoing in the vicinity to ensure the safety of nearby communities and prevent the regrouping of fleeing rebels.