Two NPA Rebels Killed in Surigao del Sur Clash, High-Ranking Officer Among Fatalities
A significant encounter between government forces and communist insurgents in Surigao del Sur resulted in the deaths of two rebels, including a high-ranking finance officer, on Friday, April 17, 2026. The Philippine Army confirmed that the clash took place in the rugged mountainous terrain of Barangay San Roque in San Miguel town, involving troops from the 30th Infantry Battalion and members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Details of the Encounter and Casualties
The fatalities were identified as Lucy Canda, also known by aliases Luis or Madi, who served as the finance officer of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and Gia Miano, alias Plender or Moning, a member of the Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG). Following the intense firefight, the group’s team leader, Jun Requina Jr., alias Junjun, surrendered to pursuing government troops, marking a notable development in the operation.
Series of Operations in the Area
This incident occurred just two days after a separate clash on April 15, 2026, between the 75th Infantry Battalion and the same NPA group in Barangay Bolhoon, also within San Miguel. That earlier engagement led to the death of another rebel, identified only as alias Keroy, and the recovery of five high-powered firearms. Additionally, in a related event, a political instructor known as alias Cyrus surrendered to the 36th Infantry Battalion in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, citing exhaustion from the armed struggle and a lack of support from their former mass base as reasons for his decision.
Community Involvement and Military Strategy
Lieutenant Colonel Rey Vergel Annogui, commander of the 30th Infantry Battalion, emphasized the crucial role played by local residents in these operations. “The growing vigilance of residents and their timely reporting to authorities directly contributed to these successful operations,” Annogui stated. He added that attempts by the NPA to re-establish their presence in the area have been met with strong resistance from communities, highlighting a shift in local dynamics.
Call for Peace and Continued Operations
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, outlined the military’s ongoing focus on the remaining armed members in the Caraga Region. “The door remains open for those who choose the path to peace,” Anayron said. “We urge the remaining members to abandon the armed struggle and take advantage of the government’s reintegration programs before it is too late.” The military has announced that focused operations will continue to prevent the regrouping of insurgents and to sustain security gains in Surigao del Sur province, underscoring a commitment to maintaining stability in the region.
