Joint security operations led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with support from the Philippine National Police (PNP), delivered significant gains in Negros Occidental from April 19 to 23, 2026—resulting in arrests, the recovery of firearms and explosives, and the disruption of remaining Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) elements in Northern Negros.
Focused military actions in the municipality of Toboso triggered a series of armed encounters that led to the dispersal of CTG members. One government personnel sustained gunshot wounds during the engagements and is now in stable condition.
In the aftermath, PNP units activated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to carry out crime scene processing and forensic examinations. Authorities reported the recovery of 19 cadavers, most of whom have since been identified by their families.
Security forces also seized multiple firearms, ammunition, an explosive device, and other war materiel. Continued clearing operations by AFP and PNP units uncovered additional weapons and subversive documents, while post-mortem and forensic procedures remain ongoing.
Follow-up law enforcement operations led by the PNP resulted in the arrest of a CTG-linked suspect facing attempted murder charges, along with four others found in possession of illegal firearms, ammunition, and explosives. All suspects are now under police custody and undergoing appropriate legal proceedings.
Authorities confirmed that charges—including violations of Republic Act No. 9851 and other criminal offenses—have been filed against those arrested.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the close coordination between the AFP and PNP, underscoring the importance of sustained, intelligence-driven, and rights-based operations.
“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,” he said.
The operations align with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to sustain peace and order through disciplined and lawful security efforts, particularly in areas affected by insurgency.
The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting AFP-led initiatives while ensuring professional, rights-based policing—anchored on its campaign, “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”
