CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Army’s 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade announced on Tuesday the killing of a Communist rebel leader of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in the hinterlands of Sitio Tacocon, Barangay Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan del Sur.

Brig. Gen. Seigfred Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, identified the slain rebel leader as Bonifacio Lutawan, also known as “Tado,” commanding officer of the Regional Operational Command (ROC) of the NCMRC. His identity was confirmed by former rebels.

The encounter, which took place last Sunday, resulted in the recovery of an M653 U.S.-made assault rifle.

Tubalado commended the troops for their bravery and teamwork. He emphasized that the operation supports the brigade’s continuing campaign to dismantle remaining armed threat groups in Northern Mindanao.

Tubalado renewed his call for remaining Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) members to surrender and return to peaceful lives within their communities. He also extended condolences to the families affected by the incident.

“Soldiers from the 8th Infantry ‘Dependable’ Battalion, led by Lieutenant Colonel Jeorge Jallorina, engaged the armed group, neutralized one Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) leader, and recovered a high-powered firearm during the operation,” he said.

After the firefight, troops ensured the dignified handling of the deceased, following standard protocols.

They transported the remains to a hospital and coordinated with local funeral services.

The 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade also worked closely with local government units, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies to inform the family and provide burial assistance.

The 403rd Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities from CPP-NPA influence while conducting operations with professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights.

In a direct appeal to remaining members, Tubalado said the government remains resolved in ending the local communist movement in Bukidnon province.

“The 403rd Brigade remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities from CPP-NPA influence, while ensuring that all military operations are carried out with professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights,” he said.

“The incident was really unfortunate, amid our call for the remaining CNT to surrender. Thus, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the fatalities and once again reiterate our call for them to surrender and live peacefully within our communities,” Tubalado added.