Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. hailed the “valor and dedication” of troops under the 203rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Brigade, saying the country is now closer than ever to ending the decades-long communist insurgency.

During his visit to the brigade’s headquarters in Oriental Mindoro on August 14, Brawner personally commended soldiers involved in a recent clash with remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the town of Baco. 

The visit included a situation briefing and the awarding of honors to personnel who demonstrated exceptional bravery and service.

“Kayang-kaya natin itong laban na ito,” Brawner said in his address to the troops. “Malapit na rin mapirmahan ang Framework Agreement na naglalaman ng kasunduan na titigil na ang NPA sa kanilang armadong pakikibaka—ang hinahangad natin para sa kapayapaan.”

Several soldiers received awards for gallantry in combat, excellence in intelligence operations, and commendable service during ongoing counterinsurgency efforts. 

The 203rd Brigade, operating under the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division, has been actively engaged in neutralizing the remaining CTG presence in the region.

Their recent accomplishments include the August 12 firefight in Baco and an earlier encounter on August 9 that led to the recovery of weapons and supplies abandoned by fleeing rebels.

These local successes are part of a broader momentum nationwide. 

On 8 August, 189 former CTG members surrendered in Quezon and Bukidnon, along with 72 firearms and explosives. In Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, 49 loose firearms were turned over. Just days earlier, on July 27, seven CTG members were neutralized and several high-powered firearms were seized in Uson, Masbate.

Brawner emphasized that the AFP’s recent gains reflect not only tactical successes but a growing shift toward lasting peace in conflict-affected areas.

The AFP continues to urge remaining CTG members to surrender, reintegrate into society, and become part of the national movement toward peace and inclusive development.