SUSTAINED military operations across Mindanao and the Caraga region have resulted in the deaths of 12 suspected communist rebels and the seizure of 17 firearms, according to the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division.
The intensified campaign, spearheaded by Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., has yielded multiple surrenders and significant recoveries of weapons, signaling a substantial setback for the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).
On March 4, 2025, troops from the 44th Division Reconnaissance Company engaged CTG members in a 30-minute firefight in Sitio Banal, Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, resulting in the death of Arnel Dator, alias Darwin, a member of the Sub-Regional Sentro De Gravidad Southland.
Soldiers recovered an M16 rifle, an AR-18 rifle, backpacks, a bandolier, and subversive documents.
The day before, on March 3, 2025, the 65th Infantry Battalion clashed with 15 CTG members in Barangay Tubigon, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, seizing an M16A1 rifle, backpacks, a Baofeng radio, a cellphone, and medical supplies.
In Bukidnon province, Boyang Lailay, alias Boyaks or Doydoy, the vice commander of the Sub-Regional Operations Command of Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SROC, SRC-5), surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion on March 1, 2025, in Impasug-ong. He turned over an M60 machine gun and nine M16 rifles.
Additionally, three former members of the dismantled Guerilla Front 88 surrendered to the 88th Infantry Battalion, yielding an M4 rifle, a .357 revolver, and a .45 caliber pistol.
These operations follow the February 21, 2025, surrender of seven CTG members from the SRSDG Westland (WL) and SRSDG Southland, facilitated by a joint intelligence operation involving the 36th, 30th, and 65th Infantry Battalions.
The military attributes the increased surrenders and combat successes to the deaths of key CTG leaders, including Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, and Larry Garcia, alias Joven, coupled with relentless military pressure.
“The recent wave of surrenders and decisive military operations represents our ongoing effort to conclude the fight against insurgency,” said Major General Anayron Jr. “To those who remain, I urge you to surrender now. Lay down your arms and choose peace.”
The 4th Infantry Division reiterated its call for remaining CTG members to surrender and avail themselves of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
