Top Rebel Leader in Mindanao Killed in Cagayan Clash
-Art Dumlao- — September 14, 2024
Top Rebel Leader in Mindanao Killed in Cagayan Clash
BAGUIO CITY (September 14, 2024) — A top rebel leader in Mindanao was killed by government troops in barangay Baliuag, Peñablanca town in Cagayan, rendering a heavier blow on the already almost spent rebel force in Northern Luzon.
Edgar M. Arbitrario, alias “Karl”, alleged as the Secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley (KRCV) of the CPP-NPA in Cagayan Valley region, was a known communist terrorist leader with a long history of violence and terrorism in the region, said the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division. On September 11, 2024, government forces engaged Arbitrario and his group in a fierce encounter wounding and eventually succumbing to fatal injuries. His remains were recovered on September 13, 2024, the military said.
According to the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division, Arbitrario, 48, from R. Castillo, St. Belisario Village in Davao City, was a former Civil Engineering student who dropped out to join the communist movement in the 1990s. He was involved in numerous terrorist activities in Campostela Valley and Davao del Norte. In February 2016, he was arrested for murder and double attempted murder.
Major General Gulliver L. Señires, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, extended his condolences to the family of Arbitrario and the other rebel killed in the September 11 clash.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives among the communist insurgents. Each life is a profound waste, and it pains us to see fellow Filipinos perish. This tragedy underscores the human cost of conflict and reinforces out commitment to pursuing peace,” he said.
“The 5th Infantry Division will continue to pursue the remaining NPA members with relentless focus, but I would also like to emphasize that we also offer a path to peace for those who choose to lay down their arms and surrender. Including those who deserted, and are currently on lie low status,” he vowed. “Let us help you reintegrate into our peaceful and progressive society, Call us and help us help you.”
