ILOILO City – The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) is actively pursuing three senior leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay Island, following the recent arrest of a key leader of the local rebel group.
Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, commander of the 12th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that the military is seeking to apprehend Ka Minerva, Ka Kadoy, and Ondoy. These rebel leaders face multiple charges and are being urged to surrender to avoid further armed conflict.
The intensified military action comes after the capture of Francisco “Ka Tonying” Balaois on June 25, who was apprehended under warrants for multiple offenses, including murder, robbery, unlawful possession of firearms and explosives, and rebellion.
According to Garsuta, the continued armed struggle by the NPA still poses a significant threat, and the Philippine Army is prepared to respond if the rebels do not surrender.
“The remaining 27 rebels in southern and central Iloilo have been given a chance to surrender. If they refuse, we will have no choice but to engage them in defense of our safety,” Garsuta said.
This recent operation included the apprehension of Ka Tonying, a 56-year-old squad leader of the NPA’s Madia-as Dos, Central Front, during a joint military and police effort in Barangay Tapulang, Maayon, Capiz.
The arrest is considered as a substantial setback to the rebel group.
Lieutenant General Robert Rodriguez, commander of the Area Police Command Visayas, hailed the capture of Ka Tonying, describing it as a crucial victory that moves Panay Island closer to achieving stable internal peace and security.
He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in facilitating such significant captures and urged remaining insurgents to surrender and participate in the government’s rehabilitation programs.
Ka Tonying was a native of Barangay Katipunan, Tapaz, Capiz.
During the operation, various war materials were confiscated from Ka Tonying, including an M16 rifle, a .45 pistol, a hand grenade, magazines for M16, ammunitions, a handheld radio, and assorted medicines.
According to the Army, Ka Tonying had been operating across Panay Island for decades. His activities allegedly included extortion targeting local businessmen, farmers, and construction companies, and he was also accused of engaging in violent acts such as arson on construction equipment and recruitment of youth into NPA ranks./PN
