EastMinCom Troops Neutralize Two High-ranking CTG Leaders, Secures Another Victory Against the Terrorists

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – Troops from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn), under the operational control of the 401st Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (4ID) of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), neutralized two high-ranking individuals of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during an encounter in the hinterlands of Agusan del Sur on February 12, 2025.

An incident report showed that troops from the 3SFBn received a tip from concerned citizens that an armed group was engaged in an illegal activity in their community. Troops immediately responded, leading to a skirmish where two ranking CTG members were killed. They were identified as Larry Garcia, alias Joven, the Commanding Officer of Regional Sentro De Grabidad (RSDG), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and his Vice Commanding Officer, alias Gaga/Garing. In a subsequent pursuit operation, troops recovered two backpacks, a Baofeng commercial radio, medical supplies, and subversive documents.

EastMinCom Commander LtGen. Luis Rex D. Bergante PA commended the troops for their unwavering dedication and relentless efforts to eradicate CTG atrocities in the Caraga Region.

“Your commitment to the mission to eliminate CTG atrocities in our Joint Operational Area, particularly in the Caraga Region, deserves applause. Your efforts have significantly weakened the CTG’s influence, paving the way for lasting peace and development in our communities. Once again, I would like to reiterate our call on the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms, abandon the armed struggle, and choose a peaceful life with their families. The government remains steadfast in its efforts to support those who wish to reintegrate into society, ensuring a better future for all. Peace is always the best path forward,” LtGen. Bergante said.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP