CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. visited the 203rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Brigade in Oriental Mindoro on Thursday, August 14, to honor the courage and resolve of troops involved in a recent encounter with the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Baco.
During the visit, General Brawner received a comprehensive situation briefing, followed by the awarding of honors to personnel who demonstrated exceptional courage, dedication, and professionalism. Several were recognized for gallantry in combat and outstanding contributions to intelligence operations, while others received commendations for exemplary conduct and meritorious service in the line of duty.
The Philippine Army’s 203rd Brigade, under the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division, continues to mount sustained operations against the remaining CTGs in Mindoro. These include the August 12 clash with rebels in Baco, Oriental Mindoro, and the August 9 encounter that resulted in the recovery of weapons and supplies abandoned by fleeing insurgents.
These local gains mirror the AFP’s nationwide progress, such as the August 8 surrender of 189 former rebels in Quezon and Bukidnon—together with 72 firearms and explosives—and the turnover of 49 loose firearms in Upi, Maguindanao del Norte. Just days earlier, on July 27, seven CTG members were neutralized and several high-powered firearms seized in Uson, Masbate.
Commending the troops in Mindoro, General Brawner emphasized that their sacrifices reflect the AFP’s steadfast commitment to protect the Filipino people and secure communities across the nation.
“Kayang-kaya natin itong laban na ito,” General Brawner said. “Malapit na rin mapirmahan ang Framework Agreement na naglalaman ng kasunduan na titigil na ang NPA sa kanilang armadong pakikibaka—ang hinahangad natin para sa kapayapaan.”
The AFP reiterates its call for the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms, return to the fold of the law, and join the collective effort toward peace and development.###
Photo by SSg Ambay PA / PAOAFP
