16-06-2025
3 suspected NPA rebels killed in Surigao del Norte clashes — military
Three suspected New People's Army rebels were killed in a series of firefights with government security forces in Barangay Bugas-Bugas, Placer, Surigao del Norte, the military said Monday.
In a statement, the Philippine Army's 4th Ifantry Division said that among those killed were one Roderick Maco Bensing alias 'Rodel,' a top leader for the NPA in the Caraga region and a certain Liezl Dagohoy Mondejar, who died in the hospital due to critical injuries, and another unidentified person.
The operation was conducted by the joint forces of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion, 901st Infantry Brigade, and intelligence units under the 4th ID from June 13 to 15.
'Their (NPA combatants) failure highlights the resilience and commitment of the local communities and security forces in preserving peace and order in the area,' the military said.
Aside from the NPA fatalities, authorities also reported the capture of another suspected NPA member, Allan Cacatian alias 'Allen' and the surrender of NPA leader Ricky Per alias 'Rem.'
Rem also 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.
Brigadier General Arsenio DC Sadural, brigade commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, described the operation as a result of deliberate planning, precise execution, and strong coordination among military units.
'It sends a clear message to the remaining NPA members that the government's security forces are relentless and capable,' Sadural said. — Llanesca T. Panti/RSJ, GMA Integrated News
