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Caraga declared free of NPA influence; attains ‘stable internal peace and security’ status

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

CARAGA Region has been declared under a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS), effectively signaling the end of the New People’s Army’s active influence in the area.

The declaration ceremony, held at the LMX Convention Center in Butuan City on Thursday, June 18, marked the culmination of decades of joint counter-insurgency campaigns and localized development initiatives under the government’s “whole-of-nation” approach.

The NPA-free status resulted from individual resolutions passed by the peace and order councils across all five provinces and Butuan City, certifying that local communities had met the rigorous parameters required for a stable security environment.

Before the ceremony, Major General Marion T. Angcao, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, officially took his oath as the vice chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council XIII during a special session at the same venue.

The region’s top local chief executives were present to formally accept the security declaration, representing a united front for the region’s future economic development.

Among those in attendance were governors Maria Angelica Rosedell M. Amante (Agusan del Norte), Santiago B. Cane (Agusan del Sur), Robert Lyndon S. Barbers (Surigao del Norte), and Nilo P. Demerey Jr.

Acting Governor Manuel O. Alameda Sr. represented Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny T. Pimentel, while Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun represented Butuan City.

In their respective acceptance messages, the local leaders credited the milestone to the collective resilience of Caraga residents and to institutional synergy between local government units and the security sector.

National defense officials emphasized that maintaining the security status requires continuous vigilance and socio-economic integration.

In a statement delivered by DND Undersecretary for Defense Affairs Angelito M. De Leon, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. reminded stakeholders that the SIPS status brings a new set of responsibilities.

“The declaration is not the end of the journey, but rather a responsibility that must be protected and continuously strengthened through responsive governance, inclusive economic opportunities, and sustained collaboration,” Teodoro said.

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., represented by Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, also extended the military leadership’s commendation to the regional forces.

Closing the event, Angcao rallied troops and stakeholders to pivot from conflict resolution to peace preservation.

“The declaration of SIPS is not the end of our journey, but the beginning of a greater responsibility to sustain the peace we have gained, protect the progress we have achieved, and ensure that future generations inherit a Caraga that is secure, resilient, and full of opportunities,” Angcao said.

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4ID strips rebel remnants of firepower in Bukidnon clash

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

GOVERNMENT troops seized high-powered firearms and assorted war materiel following a fierce firefight against Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members in Sitio Mahawan, Barangay Busdi, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Elements of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, under the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said the rebels retreated after exchanging fire for 20 minutes. 

Responding clearing teams recovered two M16A1 rifles, high-capacity magazines, and various subversive documents of operational significance.

Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, praised the swift tactical execution of the troops and urged the remaining insurgents to lay down their weapons before they are completely neutralized.

“We once again extend our appeal to you, not as adversaries, but as fellow Filipinos,” Tubalado said. “True courage is not measured by the bearing of arms, but by the willingness to embrace peace and unity. Do not squander your lives on a futile cause and a distorted ideology. There remains a lawful path through surrender.”

Major General Marion T. Angcao, commander of the 4ID, reiterated that the military will not let up on its focused operations across Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Regions. 

He pressed the remaining fighters to avail themselves of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“The 4th Infantry Division remains steadfast in its mission to protect the people and neutralize all armed threats,” Angcao said. “We will continue to intensify our focused military operations to ensure lasting peace and stability.”

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4ID: Last remaining members of NPA’s NMRC surrender in Caraga

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE COMMUNISt New People’s Army (NPA) Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) has completely collapsed following the surrender of its final remaining members to government forces, according to the 4th Infantry Division.

The military credited the total dismantling of the Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG) major regional formation to the relentless operations of the 4th Infantry Division, conducted in close coordination with partner units and local stakeholders.

The final blow occured on Thursday, May 28, when its last five remaining members surrendered to joint elements of the 401st Infantry Brigade and the PNP Special Action Force in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.

This followed a separate breakthrough just a day prior. On May 27, three other members of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad (RSDG) under the NEMRC yielded to the 401st Infantry Brigade. They turned over one carbine rifle, three carbine magazines, and 28 rounds of ammunition.

The military said the communist group’s cohesion deteriorated following the death of their top leader, Edilberto Daval (alias Bong/Waco/Bill), who was killed in a combat encounter with government troops on May 11.

Colonel Glenn Joy U. Aynera, acting commander of the 401st Brigade, confirmed that the former rebels voluntarily stepped forward to pledge their support to the government’s ongoing peace and development initiatives.

“This significant development marks another major milestone in our intensified campaign to end insurgency in the Caraga Region,” Aynera said. “The surrender of these remaining members signifies the complete dismantling of one of the CTG’s major regional formations operating in Northeastern Mindanao.”

Major General Marion  Angcao lauded the collaborative efforts of the troops, local government units, and community stakeholders that led to the neutralization and eventual collapse of the NEMRC.

“The total collapse of the NEMRC is a testament to the effectiveness of our focused military operations, strengthened collaboration with local government units, and the unwavering support of the communities,” the 4ID commander said. “This achievement brings us closer to attaining lasting peace and sustainable development in the region.”

The military leadership emphasized that the government remains fully committed to helping the former rebels safely reintegrate into mainstream society. 

The surrenderers will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to receive immediate financial, livelihood, and psychosocial assistance.

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Former 1003rd brigade chief takes reins of 4th Infantry Division

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

BRIGADIER General Marion T. Angcao, the veteran commander credited with maintaining Davao City’s insurgency-free status, assumes command of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

The change of command ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the 4ID headquarters in Camp Evangelista.

Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete will preside over the transition as the guest of honor and speaker, according to Lt. Col. Jelyn Fallar, 4ID Public Affairs Office chief in a message to TIMES on Friday.

Angcao takes over the leadership of the Diamond Division from Brig. Gen. Seigfred Tubalado. Tubalado, the commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, had been serving as the acting division chief following the retirement of Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. on April 28, 2026.

The appointment of Angcao is effective as of May 1, 2026, marking a swift transition from his most recent high-level post as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G3) of the Philippine Army at Fort Bonifacio.Angcao’s rise to a division command follows a distinguished career heavily rooted in the Davao Region.

His notable previous assignments included being appointed as G3, Philippine Army; 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander; acting chief of staff of the Presidential Security Group (PSG); and 73rd Infantry Battalion commander from 2017 to 2019, where he led successful counter-insurgency operations in Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Maalab” Class of 1993, Angcao is recognized as one of the Army’s top strategists.

He holds a Master’s degree in Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines and a Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies from the National Defense University in Washington DC, where he graduated in 2020.

His assumption of the 4ID comes at a critical time as the military continues to shift its focus from internal security to territorial defense, while simultaneously maintaining the gains of peace in Northern Mindanao and Caraga.

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Maj. Gen. Anayron bids farewell as 4ID chief 

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

MAJOR Gen. Michele B. Anayron, commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), was accorded arrival honors during his formal exit visit to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) on Monday, April 20.

EastMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio presided over the ceremony, held at Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, and attended by officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian human resources.

A legacy of service

Anayron, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992, has led the 4ID since January 28, 2025. His leadership of the “Diamond” Division followed a successful stint as the commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade.

During the visit, Orio expressed his appreciation for the strong operational synergy between the 4ID and EastMinCom, which has been vital in maintaining regional stability.

The exit visit is a time-honored military tradition, serving as a final formal meeting between a divisional commander and the higher command to signify the completion of a major assignment and to reinforce the continuity of the mission.

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2 rebels killed, firearms seized in Surigao del Sur clash

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

SOLDIERS of the 36th Infantry Battalion killed two communist rebels and captured four high-powered firearms following a clash in the hinterlands of Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) reported Monday.

The soldiers, operating under the 401st Infantry Brigade, tracked down remnants of the SRSDG Westland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee, in Barangay Nurcia, leading to the encounter. When the smoke cleared, they found Ka Rex and Ka Bunso dead on the spot, abandoned by their comrades. 

Military officers credited the operation’s success to timely intelligence provided by local residents.

Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera, commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, said, “This operation highlights the effectiveness of our focused military maneuvers and the invaluable support of the local communities. We will continue to intensify our efforts to dismantle the remaining CTG elements and ensure the security of our area of responsibility.”

For his part, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4ID, emphasized the Army’s commitment to ending the long-standing insurgency in the Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions.

Following the clash, troops remained on-site to clear the area and ensure the safety of nearby civilian communities. The captured firearms have been turned over for proper documentation and ballistic examination.

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2 rebels yield, 5 rifles seized in Bukidnon and Surigao

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

TWO COMMUNIST rebels surrendered, and five high-powered firearms were recovered in separate operations in Bukidnon and Surigao del Sur on March 12-13.

According to the belated military report, two NPA members surrendered to the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

The military attributed the surrender to sustained operational pressure and dwindling support from the local populace. The former rebels also turned over an M16 rifle.

Lt. Col. Jeorge R. Jallorina, 8IB commanding officer, said the surrenderees provided “valuable information” to help dismantle remaining NPA elements in their area of responsibility.

In a separate development on March 13, troops from the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) unearthed an arms cache in Sitio Gis Anan, Barangay Carromata, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. 

The haul included three M16 rifles, one Colt M4 rifle, magazines, ammunition, and other war materiel.

Lt. Col. Rey Vergel A. Annogui, 30IB commanding officer, noted that the discovery was a follow-up to an earlier arms recovery in the neighboring Sitio Lago on March 11.

In his message, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, said these achievements further weakened the operational capability of the remaining Communist Terrorist Group.

“These highlight the continued decline of the NPA as more of its members choose to surrender while their resources and firearms are gradually being recovered through our focused military operations. Although we will not rest on our laurels in pursuing them on the battlefield, we still encourage them to take the opportunity to return to the folds of the law and live peaceful lives with their families,” he added.

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4ID commander: US forces in CDO for routine Balikatan, not foreign conflict

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE PHILIPPINE Army attempted to quell public anxiety following social media rumors linking the arrival of US troops in the city to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Major General Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), clarified in a phone interview with Brigada News FM CDO that the presence of US forces at the former Lumbia Airport is strictly for the upcoming Balikatan Exercises. 

An advance party of American personnel recently arrived for a final coordinating conference to finalize training scenarios.

The clarification comes after a wave of social media posts suggested that the troop movements were related to international conflicts, sparking concern among residents.

“These are regular joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States,” Anayron Jr. stated, emphasizing that the activities have no connection to global tensions outside the country.

Call for vigilance against misinformation 

Anayron urged the public to remain calm and stop the spread of “out-of-this-world imaginations” and unverified reports that cause unnecessary panic.

“Let us be united in our desire to defend our territory,” the commander said in a statement. “I am asking our brothers and sisters to avoid spreading misinformation. We should be one in protecting our sovereignty, rather than creating difficulties for our fellow Filipinos.”

The military leadership reminded the public to verify any information regarding troop movements through official government and military channels before sharing it online.

The Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) exercises are a long-standing bilateral agreement aimed at strengthening disaster response and territorial defense capabilities between the two allied nations.

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10ID, 4ID commanders reaffirm inter-division synergy in exit visit

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

AS PART of continued military synergy, Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, hosted Major General Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, during the latter’s exit visit at Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr. on Monday, March 9.

The 10ID rendered full military arrival honors for Anayron before he proceeded to a courtesy call with Luzon. The meeting served as a strategic touchpoint for the two key divisions operating under the Eastern Mindanao Command.

The visit highlighted the coordination between the two divisions, which share critical boundaries in the region. 

Accordingly, the collaboration ensures a unified approach to peace and stability, noting that the partnership is vital for strengthening operational cooperation and protecting recent security gains in Eastern Mindanao.

Anayron, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992, is conducting these visits as part of his exit transition, reinforcing the professional ties that bind the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the region.

The exchange concluded with a commitment from both commanders to ensure that the transition of leadership within the 4ID will not disrupt the momentum of ongoing peace and security operations across their respective areas of responsibility.

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23rd IB has new battalion commander

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NEWLY designated 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion acting commander, Lieutenant Colonel Glennford C. Libre, vowed to continue the unit’s mission of upholding peace, security, and community development in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, and nearby areas.

Libre was among the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID) installed as three new commanders to key infantry and artillery units, emphasizing leadership continuity and enhanced mission readiness across its area of responsibility.

 Libre has assumed command as the acting commanding officer of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. 

In his assumption speech, Libre vowed to continue the unit’s mission of upholding peace, security, and community development in Agusan del Norte and surrounding areas.

Libre, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2005, replaced Lt. Col. Chris C. Baloran, who has been reassigned to new responsibilities supporting the Division’s operational and administrative functions.

Libre previously served as the acting head of the Division Reconnaissance Battalion.

The simultaneous change of command ceremonies underscore the 4ID’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains, particularly in counterinsurgency efforts.

Also appointed was Lieutenant Colonel Rey Vergel A. Annogui, who took command as acting commanding officer of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.

He replaced Lt. Col. Albert M. Batingga, whose leadership earned the 30IB a prestigious CGPA Streamer for its contributions to peace in Surigao and Agusan del Norte. 

Annogui is a graduate of the Officer Candidate Course, Class of 2004, and formerly served as deputy assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Allan M. Peñaflor, who was designated acting commanding officer of the 4th Field Artillery Battalion (4FAB), replacing Lt. Col. Victor A. Teleron. 

Peñaflor, also an Officer Candidate Course Class of 2004 graduate, ensures continuity in crucial artillery support across the 4ID’s operational area.

Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4ID, commended both the outgoing and incoming commanders for their dedication and commitment.

Anayron stressed that competent and continuous leadership is vital for maintaining operational readiness, fostering community engagement, and advancing the Army’s mission to protect and serve the people in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Regions.

“The 4th Infantry Division remains steadfast in its commitment to professional excellence, operational preparedness, and collaborative partnerships with local government units, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders,” Anayron concluded.

The outgoing commanders were recognized for their exceptional service and contributions to peacekeeping and development, receiving Military Merit Medals and Command Plaques during the ceremonial turnovers.

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