3 NPA members died, 2 surrender in series of encounters in Surigao del Norte
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – Five remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the Caraga Regions were neutralized following a series of encounters in Barangay Bugas-Bugas, Placer, Surigao del Norte.
Joint forces of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, 901st Infantry Brigade, and intelligence units under the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division launched the operation on Friday, June 13, with the running gun battle lasting until Sunday, June 15, 2025.
The encounters stemmed from a deliberate security operation that successfully frustrated a desperate recovery attempt by the NPA to regain a foothold in Surigao del Norte, a province already declared insurgency-free. Their failure once again highlights the resilience and commitment of the local communities and security forces in preserving peace and order in the area.
On June 14, Ricky T. Per, alias “Rem,” identified as a top NPA leader in Caraga, surrendered to government forces. He turned over a caliber .45 pistol and later led troops to an arms cache, resulting in the recovery of his M16 rifle, a rifle grenade, magazines, ammunition, bandoliers, and mobile phones. Authorities also confirmed the capture of another NPA member, Allan Cacatian, alias “Allen.”
A major blow was dealt to the NPA’s remnants in Northeastern Mindanao with the neutralization of Roderick Maco Bensing, alias “Rodel,” the group’s top leader in Caraga. Two other members were also killed, including Liezl Dagohoy Mondejar, a female rebel who later died in the hospital due to critical injuries.
Second Lieutenant Allen Villavicencio, platoon leader of the 30IB troops involved, reported that the first encounter occurred around 8:00 a.m. on June 15, resulting in the recovery of one body at the scene. A second combatant, a female, was found critically wounded and brought to the hospital, where she was later declared dead. A second engagement followed at approximately 11:00 a.m., during which another body was recovered.
“This is a clear sign that their strength is crumbling. We urge those who are still in hiding to make the right choice now, before it’s too late. Lay down your arms, return to your families, and help rebuild the very communities that have long suffered from this senseless violence,” Lt Col Albert M Batingga, 30IB Commanding Officer stated.
Brigadier General Arsenio DC Sadural, Brigade Commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, stated, “This operation is a result of deliberate planning, precise execution, and strong coordination among our units. It sends a clear message to the remaining NPA members that the government’s security forces are relentless and capable. We will continue our focused military operations to ensure lasting peace and stability in Surigao del Norte and the entire Caraga Regions.”
He further stressed that, “Despite their persistent recovery efforts, the NPA continues to fail in reclaiming influence over Surigao del Norte. The province remains steadfast and resilient, with its people rejecting the return of violence and terror. We are committed to protecting these gains and keeping the CTGs from undermining peace and development,” said Brigadier General Sadural.
