NTF-ELCAC Congratulates AFP for Successive Neutralization of Top NPA Leaders in Mindanao

February 17, 2025

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) commends the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its relentless pursuit of communist terrorist groups (CTGs), following another successful operation that led to the neutralization of two ranking New People’s Army (NPA) commanders in Agusan del Sur.

NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Usec. Ernesto C. Torres Jr. hailed the troops of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion and the 401st Infantry Brigade for their latest triumph against the NPA, which came just a week after the successful operation that resulted in the killing of Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, secretary of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

"The consecutive neutralization of Maria Malaya and, now, two more high-ranking NPA leaders—Larry Garcia, alias Joven, commanding officer of the Regional Sentro De Grabidad, NEMRC, and his vice commanding officer, alias Gaga or Garing—marks a significant victory in our campaign to eradicate communist terrorism," Torres said.

The recent encounter in Sitio Kapunan, Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, was initiated in response to reports from local residents regarding NPA extortion activities disrupting their peaceful communities. Government forces recovered firearms, explosives, and subversive documents from the clash site, further exposing the group’s criminal operations.

"The fall of Maria Malaya was a crippling blow to the NPA's leadership in Mindanao, and now, with the deaths of Joven and Garing, the NPA's regional command has suffered yet another major setback. This is a clear indication that the people reject their violent and exploitative agenda, and that the government, through our security forces, remains resolute in protecting communities from their lawless activities," Torres added.

With these back-to-back blows against the NPA, Torres reiterated the government’s call for remaining communist rebels to surrender and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides financial aid, livelihood support, housing, and educational assistance to former rebels.

"The tide has turned. The only way forward is peace. The government is ready to assist those who choose to leave the armed struggle and reintegrate into society," Torres emphasized.

The NTF-ELCAC reaffirmed its full support for the AFP, the Philippine National Police, and all government agencies working together to put an end to communist terrorism. The task force also urged local leaders to continue strengthening community resilience against the deceptive tactics of CTGs, ensuring that Filipinos can live in safety and prosperity.

𝗡𝗧𝗙-𝗘𝗟𝗖𝗔𝗖 𝗠𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗔 𝗕𝗨𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗨

Ref: Dr. Joel M. Sy Egco, PhD, MPSA

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