High-Ranking NPA Commander Killed in Agusan del Sur Clash
Military authorities have confirmed the death of a senior New People's Army (NPA) commander during an armed encounter in Agusan del Sur. The rebel leader, identified as Bonifacio Lutawan, alias Ka Tado, was the commanding officer of the Regional Operation Command under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
Seventeen Murder Charges Pending
Major Joe Patrick Martines, spokesperson for the 4th Infantry Diamond Division of the Philippine Army, revealed that Lutawan faced seventeen separate murder charges dating back to 2022. According to background checks conducted by military intelligence, most victims were indigenous Lumad people from Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon who resisted forced recruitment into the rebel movement.
"Our investigation shows these murders targeted community members who refused to join the NPA," Major Martines stated, emphasizing the pattern of violence against civilians.
Military Operation Leads to Fatal Encounter
The fatal confrontation occurred in Sitio Tacocon, Kasapa II, within the municipality of La Paz, Agusan del Sur. Military officials described how a large-scale operation launched in early February cornered Lutawan's group as they were gathering food supplies.
"They remained in the area despite our presence, leading to their isolation," Major Martines explained. "The rebels eventually abandoned their commander's body and weapons during their retreat."
Rebel Strength Declining in Region
Military assessments indicate the NPA's strength is diminishing significantly in the region. Authorities are currently pursuing only 27 remaining rebels in Bukidnon and 20 in Agusan del Sur, suggesting the group is nearing collapse in these areas.
"This elimination represents a major setback for their operations," Major Martines noted, highlighting the strategic importance of Lutawan's command position.
The deceased commander was a resident of Malaybalay, Bukidnon, though his operations spanned multiple provinces. The military continues operations against remaining NPA elements while investigating the full extent of crimes attributed to Lutawan's command.
