The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division of the Philippine Army said the clashes took place in Barangay Bakingking, where troops from the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade conducted sustained combat and non-combat operations against the NPA’s Headquarters Force Neo of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
The initial encounter occurred at around 5:30 a.m. when soldiers from the 1st Special Forces Battalion engaged the NPA group reportedly led by Julia Cagadas alias Rheda/Toyang/Yoko/Kayuka, identified as secretary of the NCMRC.
At around 12:20 p.m., troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion encountered the same group. Pursuit operations later followed, with the 8th IB and Special Forces teams engaging the rebels at around 1 p.m.
The Army reported that four NPA members were killed, including Cagadas, whom the military described as a key NPA leader in Region 10 and NCMRC secretary.
The other fatalities were identified as Jonny Almonte Lindayo alias Kikoy/Bugkoy; Rochamae Bihag alias Maki, identified as Executive Committee member and ED/PROD of the NCMRC; and Gerald Basahon alias Doydoy, a member of Squad 2 of Headquarters Force Neo.
Three other NPA members reportedly surrendered during the operation. They were identified as Cherelyn Cuarisma Magsayo alias Lian, signal communication personnel of the NCMRC Executive Committee; Marilyn D. Taquin alias Mayumi/Mayang, a member of Squad 1; and Angelito Tahal Torres alias Erin, a platoon medic and team leader.
The troops also recovered six high-powered firearms from the area.
403rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado said the operation showed the military's capability to prevent armed groups displaced from other areas from returning to communities that had already been cleared of insurgent threats.
He said the coordinated deployment of regular and specialized forces allowed government troops to maintain pressure on the NPA and disrupt its effort to establish a new base in Caraga.
Meanwhile, 4ID Commander Major General Marion T. Angcao said the operation reflects the division's continuing efforts to protect communities and preserve the region's peace and security gains.
Angcao also underscored the need to address the human cost of the decades-long insurgency, noting that individuals involved in armed groups may have been recruited or influenced into joining the rebellion.
He said assisting families affected by the conflict remains important even as troops carry out their mandate against armed threats.
The 4ID said it will continue operations aimed at preventing the NPA from rebuilding its presence in Caraga while supporting peace, security and development initiatives in its area of responsibility.