A wanted New People's Army (NPA) hitman with a PHP1 million bounty on his head was killed during weekend clashes between government forces and communist rebels in the mountainous areas of Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental, military officials confirmed Monday, April 20, 2026.
Roger Fabillar, who operated under multiple aliases including "Arnel Tapang," "Jhong," "Nono," and "Domeng," was among more than 10 NPA fighters killed during a series of encounters that began April 19, according to Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog, commander of the Philippine Army's 303rd Infantry Brigade.
The 31-year-old Fabillar was facing multiple murder charges in northern Negros and had been the subject of an intensive manhunt by security forces. His death represents a significant blow to the Northern Negros Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros (NNF, KR-N), the regional communist guerrilla unit operating in the area.
Intense Weekend Operations
The fatal encounters occurred when troops from the 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion engaged NPA remnants in the remote hinterlands of Barangay Salamanca. The military operation, conducted under the 303rd Infantry (Brown Eagle) Brigade, targeted communist rebels who had been using the mountainous terrain as a hideout.
According to military reports, the clashes began in the early hours of April 19 and continued through the weekend. The rugged terrain of the Toboso mountains, known for its dense forest cover and steep slopes, has historically served as a refuge for NPA units operating in northern Negros.
Brigade commander Dumosmog confirmed in an interview that the operation successfully neutralized what he described as a significant threat to peace and security in the region. The encounters mark one of the most successful anti-insurgency operations in northern Negros in recent months.
High-Value Target Profile
Fabillar had been a priority target for security forces due to his alleged involvement in multiple killings across northern Negros. He was wanted for murder cases numbered 2353, 4354, and 4355, with authorities linking him to several assassination-style killings in Toboso and Calatrava municipalities.
Military intelligence described Fabillar as approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing 55 kilograms, with dark curly hair. He was known to have distinctive physical characteristics including a damaged right shoulder, varicose veins, and a habit of wearing jackets and arm sleeves while carrying a black clutch bag.
The wanted poster issued by the 79th Infantry Battalion detailed his physical description and offered the substantial reward for information leading to his capture. The PHP1 million bounty, funded by private sector donors, underscored the serious threat he posed to community safety.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
Local residents in Toboso and neighboring Calatrava had lived under the shadow of fear due to Fabillar's alleged activities. The murders attributed to him had created a climate of intimidation in rural communities where NPA influence remained strong.
The 79th Infantry Battalion had maintained active hotlines for citizens to report information about Fabillar's whereabouts, using both Globe (09273392481) and Smart (09638739989) numbers. The unit also encouraged tips through their Facebook page as part of community engagement efforts.
Military officials emphasized that Fabillar's elimination would help restore peace and normalcy to affected communities. The successful operation demonstrates the military's commitment to protecting civilians from armed groups that threaten local security.
Anti-Insurgency Campaign Progress
The operation against Fabillar and his associates represents part of the broader government campaign to end the communist insurgency in the Philippines. The Northern Negros Front has been one of the more active NPA units in the Visayas region, conducting recruitment, extortion, and armed attacks against government forces.
The 303rd Infantry Brigade has intensified operations against communist rebels in northern Negros, focusing on dismantling the organizational structure of the NNF, KR-N. The weekend encounters demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in targeting high-value rebel personalities.
Military sources indicate that the loss of Fabillar and other fighters significantly weakens the NPA's operational capability in the region. The communist group has struggled with declining membership and limited popular support in recent years.
Army Commander Cites Community Trust
Brigadier General Dumosmog credited the success of the operation to improved intelligence gathering and community cooperation. He noted that local residents have become increasingly willing to provide information about NPA activities, helping security forces locate rebel hideouts and track movement patterns.
The military leader emphasized the importance of continued community vigilance in preventing the resurgence of communist rebel activities. He called on residents to report suspicious activities and support government efforts to maintain peace and order.
The 79th Infantry Battalion continues to maintain its "AFPyouCanTRUST" campaign, emphasizing professionalism and service excellence in its operations. The unit's motto of "Serving the People, Securing the Land" reflects its dual mission of combat operations and community engagement.
Ongoing Security Operations
Following the successful weekend operation, military forces continue to conduct clearing operations in the Toboso area to ensure no remaining NPA fighters pose threats to local communities. The terrain's challenging nature requires sustained efforts to maintain security gains.
Authorities expect that Fabillar's death will prompt remaining NPA members to either surrender to government forces or face continued military pressure. The 303rd Infantry Brigade maintains readiness to respond to any retaliatory actions by surviving rebels.
The military operation's success reinforces the government's strategy of targeted strikes against rebel leaders while encouraging rank-and-file members to abandon the armed struggle and return to normal civilian life.
Photo credit: 79th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army