THE 4TH Infantry (Diamond) Division significantly impacted the communist terrorist group (CTG) by reducing its members, leaders, and firepower in the third quarter of 2024.
During the Campaign Progress Review and Assessment (CPRA) at Camp Evangelista, Barangay Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, on Thursday, Oct. 24, division commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II reported that his troops engaged in 24 encounters from July to September.
These operations led to the neutralization of 70 Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists (CNTs) and the capture of 88 firearms from arms caches, along with several additional confiscations and surrenders.
Among the significant achievements was the surrender of Meni Rose Calipay De Castro, alias Cream, a medic for the Regional Headquarters, NEMRC.
She reportedly served as the medic for Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, the so-called Secretary of the NEMRC, from January to May 2024. She surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade in Brgy. Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, on July 18, 2024.
Additionally, troops from the 401st Infantry Brigade conducted two major encounters with close air support from September 7 to 9 in Bolhoon, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.
These operations resulted in the capture of ten high-powered firearms and the death of two CNTs. There is reason to believe there were more casualties among the CTG, as indicated by heavy bloodstains found at the encounter site and along the withdrawal route.
Following these encounters, 13 CTG members chose the path of peace and surrendered, bringing with them 28 high-powered firearms.
This decision came after a relentless pursuit operation characterized by a steadfast call for peaceful surrender, highlighting a commitment to resolving the situation without further conflict.
During his remarks at the CPRA, Cuerpo commended the troops’ outstanding performance, which led to continuous setbacks for the CTG.
He emphasized that these successful operations reflect a focused effort to prevent CTG atrocities and enhance cooperation with partner stakeholders and the civilian population.
The 4ID commander also expressed his goal of completing the mission by the end of the year.
“I want to congratulate everyone on the outstanding performance we’ve achieved in the third quarter, as reflected in our operational results. I am extremely proud of what this unit has accomplished. Thank you for all your contributions to the Joint Task Force Diamond. Remember, commanders never settle for less; we start each mission with dignity and end it with pride.”
Photos courtesy of 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
