A joint operation by military and police forces led to the arrest of a high-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader and several others in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur on Friday.
In a statement released Saturday, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (10ID) identified the captured NPA leader as Charisse Bernadine Bañez, also known as Nikki, who served as secretary of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
Eight other suspected insurgents were also apprehended during the operation. They were identified as Ronnie Igloria alias Gideon, a vice commanding officer; Louvaine Erika Espina alias Pam, the unit’s medical officer; Sinag Lugsi alias Jomilyn; Larry Montero alias Laloy; Daryl Man-Inday alias Tonton; Arjie Guino Dadizon alias Ronron; and Grace Niknik Man-aning alias Jelyn.
“These apprehensions mark a decisive victory against the remaining elements of the SMRC,” 10ID commander Maj. Gen. Allan Hambala said.
Hambala emphasized the commitment of both the military and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to maintaining peace in local communities, noting that the arrests dealt a significant blow to the SMRC’s operational capacity in the Davao and Caraga regions.
In recent months, 10ID troops have neutralized other SMRC leaders. Elbert Echavez alias Aldrin, head of the Regional Sentro De Grabidad Jaguar, was killed in an encounter in Boston, Davao Oriental on April 27. His deputy, Jeffry Casal alias Lalai, was also slain during a skirmish in Lingig, Surigao del Sur on May 10.
The operation is seen as a substantial step toward dismantling the SMRC and addressing security threats in the region.
“The arrests also reflected the unwavering dedication of our troops and our partners in the Philippine National Police to safeguard the peace we have established in our communities,” he said.
