The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) under the leadership of LtGen. Greg T. Almerol continues to intensify its whole of nation approach to finish the dwindling forces of the remaining Guerilla Fronts in its Joint Operational Area adhering to the challenge of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP), Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. to dismantle the remaining Guerilla Fronts in the country soonest.
The Command’s no-let-up operations led to a series of encounters against the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and the surrender of its members since the beginning of the year.
Based on EastMinCom records, from January to date, the Command has neutralized 74 Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA Terrorists (CNT), comprising 62 surrenders, four captures, and eight deaths; captured 71 firearms, with 58 high-powered and 13 low-powered; recovered eight anti-personnel mines; and discovered one enemy hideout.
LtGen. Almerol extended his commendation to the troops for their unwavering commitment, which has contributed immensely to the outstanding achievements of the Command since the beginning of the year.
“I commend you all for your steadfast dedication that has played a pivotal role in the Command’s remarkable achievements. With the timeline given to us by the Chief of Staff, I am confident that we can adhere to it and finish the remaining guerrilla fronts in our area of operations. With your commitment and dedication to upholding our mission, we will meet this challenge head-on and emerge victorious in safeguarding our nation’s peace and security,” he said.
Likewise, the members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of Surigao del Norte approved a joint resolution proclaiming Surigao del Norte as “insurgency-free” on March 15.
Meanwhile, LtGen. Almerol lauded the troops of the 901st Infantry Brigade under the Operational Control of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) for their relentless pursuit of dismantling the remaining Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the Province.
“As the Commander of EastMinCom, I am deeply proud and honored to witness this kind of achievement in your area. Your dedication and bravery have been exemplary, showcasing the true spirit of service. You have overcome challenges with unwavering resolve, securing peace and stability in your area of operation. May this achievement be a testament to your efforts and dedication to finally defeat the CTG forces and create a conflict-resilient Eastern Mindanao.”
Surigao del Norte is the 8th Province under the Joint Operational Area of EastMinCom to be declared Insurgency-free.
