POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — A man identified by the military as the alleged head of the Regional Instructors Bureau of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed during a joint military and police law enforcement operation in Barangay Silway 8, Polomolok, South Cotabato, at around 8:30 p.m. on October 30, 2026.
Authorities identified the fatality as Noel Pamaong, who allegedly used the aliases “Lauro” and “Santi.” According to the military, Pamaong had an outstanding warrant of arrest issued on July 6, 2023, by the Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 26, 11th Judicial Region, in Surallah, South Cotabato, in connection with a case of Multiple Attempted Homicide under Criminal Case No. 3310-2023-LS.
The court warrant carried a recommended bail of ₱120,000 for the offense.
The operation involved personnel from the Army’s 1st Mechanized Brigade, under Brig. Gen. Omar V. Orozco, and the 603rd Infantry Brigade, led by Col. Manuel Leo Q. Gador, in coordination with the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office.
During the operation, government forces recovered a caliber .45 pistol and one hand grenade from the area, according to the military.
The circumstances surrounding the armed encounter, including whether shots were exchanged and the specific events that led to Pamaong’s death, were not detailed in the initial information provided by authorities.
Military underscores coordination and community support
Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and Joint Task Force Central, emphasized the importance of close coordination among military and police units in carrying out law enforcement operations.
Catu also highlighted the role of community participation and public cooperation in identifying potential security threats, preventing possible threats to public safety, and maintaining peace in local communities.
He commended personnel of the 1st Mechanized Brigade and 603rd Infantry Brigade, as well as members of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office, for their participation in the operation. He also recognized residents who continue to support peace and security initiatives in their respective communities.
The 6ID reiterated its commitment to working with the Philippine National Police (PNP), other law enforcement agencies, and local communities to address security challenges, uphold the rule of law, and maintain a safe and peaceful environment across Central and South Central Mindanao.
The operation underscores continuing security efforts in South Cotabato, where military and police forces remain engaged in law enforcement and counterinsurgency operations.