THE 403RD Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, led by Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, has reported outstanding operational success, neutralizing six communist rebels and recovering a total of 26 high-powered firearms during recent counterinsurgency efforts in Bukidnon.
The military achievements were highlighted by a series of focused military operations against Communist-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
Government forces engaged the rebel groups in intense battles on Aug. 13 and 17, 2025, at the Saldab Complex, which covers areas in Malaybalay City and Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.
These initial offensives resulted in the neutralization of six CNTs and the immediate recovery of nine high-powered firearms.
The brigade ensured that the remains of the neutralized individuals were handled with dignity, airlifted, and turned over to their respective families with full funeral assistance, coordinated with concerned agencies.
Meanwhile, the successful operations triggered a significant wave of surrenders:
Four High-Valued Individuals (HVIs) immediately surrendered to General Tubalado and received cash assistance from Governor Rogelio P. Roque of Bukidnon Province.
Follow-on FMOs led to the subsequent surrender of 14 more CNTs, significantly reducing the enemy’s operational manpower.
The surrenderers also led to the recovery of an additional 17 high-powered firearms, further diminishing the rebel group’s ability to launch tactical offensives.
“These accomplishments clearly demonstrate that trust and cooperation between security forces and the community are vital in achieving lasting peace and security,” Tubalado said. “These successive surrenders highlight the strong impact of the FMOs and the renewed hope for individuals seeking to abandon the path of armed struggle and begin a new chapter in life.”
Capping the successful quarter, the brigade held an awarding ceremony on Sept. 29, 2025, where 54 former rebels received safe conduct passes (SCP) at the Centennial Stage, Capitol Grounds, Malaybalay City.
The documents ensure the former rebels’ safe passage and protection while their amnesty applications are pending, marking another key milestone in the province’s sustained peacebuilding and reintegration initiatives.
