ARMY'S 4th Infantry Division (4ID) achieved a significant victory in promoting peace and security in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur towns, military officials said Monday.
They even said in two recent military operations conducted on September 22 and 24, 2023, they successfully killed a CPP-NPA rebel and seized eight firearms.
Under the operational control of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, the 26th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Sandy Majarocon, clashed with approximately five NPA rebels in Brgy. Guibonon, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur on September 24.
The encounter resulted in the death of one rebel identified as Madagi Tumanan, who hailed from Brgy. Eureka, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.
Additionally, one M16 Rifle was also captured during the operation.
The military has assured that the remains of the deceased rebel will be turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and subsequently handed to the nearest funeral home in Gingoog City for a decent burial.
Lt. Col. Majarocon emphasized their commitment to respecting human rights and treating the human body with reverence, in stark contrast to the criminal actions of the communist terrorist group.
In another operation conducted on September 22, troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus, also under the operational control of the 403rd Brigade, engaged in a confrontation against approximately seven NPA rebels in Sitio Kamaca, Brgy. Bontongon, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.
The encounter resulted in the seizure of two firearms. Furthermore, after an extensive search, a cache of four firearms was discovered in a nearby creek.
Lt. Col. Bacus revealed that the presence of the rebel group had been reported by residents of the area, prompting an increase in troops to track their movements.
He emphasized the determination of the soldiers to show the futility of violence as a means to achieve their goals.
The captured items included a variety of firearms, magazines with ammunition, and other war materials.
BGen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., the commander of the 403rd Brigade, emphasized their pursuit of the remaining members of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCRMC), responsible for violent acts and extortion in the communities, posing a significant threat to peace and stability in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.
The brigade has also coordinated with government agencies and the local government units in Agusan del Sur and Misamis Oriental to assist the family of the deceased rebel.
Army's 4ID Commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, praised the relentless efforts of the Diamond troopers in achieving positive results.
He reiterated their commitment to neutralize the communist rebels by reducing their capabilities, disrupting their networks, and preventing their resurgence in communities.
Maj. Gen. Cuerpo called on fellow Filipinos to support their intensified efforts, along with the partner agencies under the Task Force to end local communist armed conflict, to ensure peace and security in the regions.
The successful operations of the 4ID contribute to the broader agenda of the government, aiming to achieve lasting peace and development in the regions of Northern Mindanao and Caraga.
Their resolve to combat criminality and insurgency remains steadfast, ensuring that people can live without fear and in an environment conducive to growth and prosperity.
