An alleged high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an armed encounter in Barangay Bayan, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on Monday, May 11, 2026.

The military identified the fatality as alias “Bong/Waco/Bill,” 2nd deputy secretary, executive committee, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) and commander of ROC, NEMRC.

Another NPA member identified as alias “Miggy” was also arrested.

Troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion recovered an assault rifle and an R4 from the clash site.

The military added that a series of gun battles resulted in the killing of several communist rebels, including the wife of alias Bong, on April 17, 2026.

“This development marks the continuing collapse of the CTG’s leadership and operational capability in NEMRC,” 401st Infantry Brigade Commander, Col. Glenn Joy Aynera, said.

The military said the death of key NPA leaders disrupts the rebel group’s remaining network and a proof of the effectiveness of government forces’ sustained military operations and strong community support in maintaining peace and security in the region.

“We continue to call on the remaining CTG members to abandon the armed struggle and return peacefully to the folds of the law while they still have the chance. The government is ready to assist them thru various reintegration programs so they can rebuild their lives & reunite with their families,” Aynera added.