THE MILITARY is rapidly gaining momentum in its campaign to secure a total peace declaration across Northern Mindanao following the neutralization of a top-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) commander and an operative in Bukidnon on Sunday, June 21.
4th Infantry Division commander Major General Marion T. Angcao emphasized that the successful double operations signal a decisive turning point, crippling the remaining armed remnants of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
Following the recent declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) across the entire Caraga Region, Angcao stated that the 4ID is heavily focused on replicating that milestone in Northern Mindanao through relentless tactical pressure.
“This development signifies another setback for the NPA,” Angcao said. “We remain resolute in our mission to dismantle the remaining armed groups and ensure that peace and development continue to flourish in our communities. We hope to achieve the same milestone in the region through continued collaboration among our forces, local government units, stakeholders, and communities.”
The shift in momentum follows back-to-back joint-force operations in Bukidnon that neutralized Romeo Manpinsahan, alias “Kakoy,” the high-ranking commanding officer of the headquarters Force NEO under the NCMRC.
The strategic operations unfolded across two separate clash sites:
Cabanglasan: Combined troops from the 1st Special Forces Battalion engaged fleeing rebels in a midnight firefight at Sitio Tagiptip, Brgy. Another, killing an NPA operative identified as Edward Pantandon, alias “Wando,” and recovering an M16 rifle.
Malaybalay City: At 11:35 a.m. the same day, pursuing forces from the 8th Infantry Battalion caught up with the same group at Sitio Nalumosan, Brgy. Silae. The second encounter resulted in the death of Commander “Kakoy” and the capture of two high-powered firearms, magazines, ammunition, and a backpack.
Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Brigade, corroborated the division’s progress, noting that the double victory clearly demonstrates the collapsing operational capability of the NCMRC under sustained military pressure.
The massive push drew extensive joint-force reinforcement, utilizing assets from the 88th and 26th Infantry Battalions, specialized Division Reconnaissance Companies, artillery fire support from the 4th and 7th Field Artillery Battalions, and dedicated regional military intelligence units.
