Joint security operations led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Negros Occidental from April 19 to 23, 2026, resulted in significant gains against Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) remnants, with 19 casualties among armed elements and five arrests of individuals linked to the insurgent organization.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported the successful neutralization of CTG elements in Northern Negros, along with the recovery of multiple firearms, explosive devices, and subversive documents during the four-day operation period.
According to the PNP report released April 24, the operations centered on Toboso municipality, where military forces engaged CTG members in armed encounters that ultimately led to the dispersal of the terrorist group. One government personnel sustained gunshot wounds during the engagements but is currently in stable condition.
Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Work
PNP units activated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct comprehensive crime scene processing and forensic examinations following the military operations. The investigative team successfully recovered nineteen cadavers, with most of the deceased already identified by their respective families.
Post-mortem and forensic examinations are ongoing as authorities work to complete the identification process and gather evidence for legal proceedings. The forensic work is being conducted in accordance with standard protocols to ensure proper documentation of the operation's outcomes.
Follow-up clearing operations conducted jointly by AFP and PNP forces led to the recovery of additional firearms and subversive documents in areas previously occupied by the CTG elements.
Weapons and Explosives Seizure
Authorities recovered a substantial cache of war materiel during the operations, including multiple firearms of various calibers, ammunition, and at least one explosive device. The seized weapons and ammunition represent a significant blow to the operational capacity of CTG remnants in the region.
The recovery of subversive documents is expected to provide valuable intelligence information that could lead to further operations against remaining CTG networks and support structures in Negros Occidental and surrounding areas.
Security officials emphasized that the weapons seizure removes dangerous materials from circulation and prevents their potential use in future terrorist activities against government forces and civilian populations.
Law Enforcement Arrests Follow Military Action
Subsequent law enforcement operations led by the PNP resulted in the arrest of five individuals with connections to the CTG organization. One arrested individual faces charges of attempted murder, while four others were found in possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosive devices.
All five arrested suspects are currently under police custody and undergoing appropriate legal proceedings. Authorities have filed charges including violations of Republic Act 9851, which covers International Humanitarian Law, along with other criminal offenses related to illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
The arrests represent a continuation of intelligence-driven operations targeting the support network and remaining infrastructure of CTG elements in the region.
PNP Chief Commends Inter-Agency Coordination
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. praised the strong coordination between AFP and PNP forces that enabled the successful operations. He emphasized the importance of sustained, intelligence-driven approaches that respect human rights while ensuring community safety.
"Katuwang ang AFP, tuloy-tuloy at maayos ang pagpapatupad ng ating mga operasyon. Ginagawa natin ito nang may disiplina at paggalang sa karapatan ng bawat isa, habang tinitiyak na mananatiling ligtas ang ating mga komunidad," Nartatez stated.
The PNP chief's comments highlight the continued emphasis on professional conduct and adherence to legal protocols during counter-terrorism operations, balancing security objectives with respect for civil rights and proper legal procedures.
Presidential Directive Implementation
The operations align with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to sustain peace and order through disciplined, intelligence-driven, and rights-based security operations. The presidential guidance specifically addresses remaining threats posed by communist terrorist groups in affected areas across the Philippines.
Security officials noted that the Negros Occidental operations demonstrate the government's commitment to systematically addressing CTG remnants while maintaining professional standards and legal compliance in all security operations.
The sustained campaign reflects broader national security priorities aimed at eliminating terrorist threats while protecting civilian populations and respecting human rights standards.
Ongoing Security Commitment
The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting AFP-led operations while ensuring professional and lawful policing in all security engagements. This approach aligns with the organization's continuing thrust of "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman."
Security analysts view the Negros Occidental operations as part of a broader strategy to eliminate remaining CTG presence in regions where the terrorist organization previously maintained significant influence and operational capacity.
The successful coordination between military and police forces is expected to serve as a model for similar operations in other areas where CTG remnants continue to pose security challenges to local communities and government authorities.
Authorities indicated that security operations will continue based on intelligence assessments and community safety requirements, maintaining the momentum achieved during the April 19-23 operations in Northern Negros.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police