THE 901ST Infantry Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division, operating under the Eastern Mindanao Command, has successfully dismantled the Sub-Region Sentro de Gravidad (SRSDG) Westland, the final remaining Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) unit in its area of responsibility in Caraga.
Since June, 26 CTG members have been neutralized through focused operations, including the death of key leaders and the surrender of 14 rebels with high-powered firearms.
Through a series of focused military operations led by the 29IB, 30IB, 36IB, 48IB, and 65IB, the unit’s manpower and leadership were decisively neutralized, marking a significant step toward lasting peace and development in the Caraga Region.
Platun Uno of SRSDG Westland was completely dismantled following multiple encounters in Surigao del Norte and Butuan City, resulting in 18 neutralized members—including the death of its commanding officer, Roderick Maco alias Rodel, and the surrender of 14 others, among them key leaders such as Ricky per alias Rem and squad leader Julia. The recent surrender of its last two members to 29IB on Oct. 2, along with seven high-powered firearms, signaled the total collapse of the platoon.
Meanwhile, Platun Dos was crippled after a June 25 clash in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, where two members were wounded and later surrendered. Its leader, Edmar Maca alias Renren, capitulated on August 22 and persuaded five more comrades to surrender by early October, leaving only seven members active.
In total, 26 CTG members from SRSDG Westland have been neutralized since June. Only three weakened squads remain, now cornered in the boundaries of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, under sustained pursuit by 901st Brigade forces.
Colonel Manuel Darius M. Resuello, acting commander of the 901st Brigade, vowed to sustain relentless operations against the remaining rebels and urged them to surrender peacefully.
He also recognized the crucial partnership of local government units and stakeholders in advancing peace and development efforts across the region.
