THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) is on track to complete its transition from internal defense operations to external defense by the end of the third quarter of this year.
This was announced on Wednesday, July 8, 2025, by EastMinCom Spokesperson LtCol. Salvacion Evangelista, who trumpeted their accomplishments amid the ongoing operations in areas still affected by the New People’s Army (NPA).
“For the remaining, the focused military operations continue, not just for combat military operations activity but we have different sustainable activities together with the other government agencies to sustain the peace and development in each area,” Evangelista stated.
She added, “And as we shift to external defense operations we have different comprehensive training not only in regular forces but even in our reserve force.”
As part of preparations for the shift to external defense, EastMinCom will host its first-ever reservist challenge in its area of responsibility from July 11 to 13.
The event will include reservists from the Philippine Air Force, Navy, and Army. She said the competition will enhance the capacity of the reservists to prepare them when they integrate into the regular forces.Currently, EastMinCom is combating eight remaining NPA units under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) and the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
Based on data, the number of surrenderees, arrests, and fatalities in encounters increased from 542 recorded between January 1 and June of this year, to 549 as of July.
Military operations, including joint operational activities, remain focused on areas under the 4th Infantry Division, with expectations that the remaining Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) will be eliminated soon.
“Definitely, we are capable, based on the accomplishments we have seen under our 4th Infantry Division, we can achieve our third quarter (target) as we shift to our external defense operation,” Evangelista concluded.
Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron
