Army resumes manhunt for three NPA leaders in Normin

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) has resumed military operations to pursue three remaining leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) linked to the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr., 4ID commander, said the ongoing operations focus on areas along the Bukidnon–Agusan del Sur boundary.

Among those being pursued were identified as Julia Cagadas, also known as Ka Reda, described as a regional secretary; an individual known by the alias Kakoy from San Luis, Agusan del Sur; and another identified by the alias Jakim.

“At the moment, military operations are ongoing to neutralize the remaining group of NPA rebels operating along the Agusan del Sur–Bukidnon boundary,” Anayron said.

Earlier, the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade reported an encounter in the hinterlands of Sitio Tacocon, Barangay Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan del Sur.

The clash resulted in the death of a rebel leader identified as Bonifacio Lutawatan, also known as Tado, who was described as a commanding officer of a regional operational command under the NCMRC. His identity was confirmed by former rebels, according to the military.

Troops also recovered an M653 rifle following the encounter.

A military report said soldiers from the 8th Infantry Battalion engaged the armed group during the operation.

After the firefight, government forces transported the remains of the slain rebel to a hospital and coordinated with local authorities and funeral service providers, following standard protocols.

The 403rd Infantry Brigade said it also coordinated with local government units, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies to notify the family and extend burial assistance.