By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said information provided by residents helped government forces respond to the presence of an armed group during encounters in Barangay Bakingking, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, on September 10, 2026.
In an official statement released by Joint Task Force Diamond and the 4ID, the military said the incident highlighted the role of communities under the government’s Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) framework in identifying emerging threats and working with authorities to protect peace and security.
The encounters involved troops from the 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade, including the 1st Special Forces Battalion and 8th Infantry Battalion, during operations against what the Army identified as Headquarters Force Neo of the New People’s Army’s (NPA) North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).
The military reported that four individuals identified as NPA members were killed, three others surrendered, and six high-powered firearms were recovered during the series of encounters in Barangay Bakingking from September 10 to 12.
Among those killed was Julia Cagadas, also known by the aliases Rheda, Toyang, Yoko, and Kayuka, whom the Army identified as secretary of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.
The military also identified the other fatalities as Jonny Almonte Lindayo, alias Kikoy/Bugkoy; Rochamae Bihag, alias Maki; and Gerald Basahon, alias Doydoy.
The Communist Party of the Philippines–North Central Mindanao Region later confirmed the deaths of the four individuals and released its own account identifying them as members of its organization.
SIPS Clarification
The 4ID clarified that an area classified under the Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) framework does not mean it is completely free from security challenges.
According to the military, SIPS indicates that peace and security conditions have reached a level of stability that allows civilian authorities, communities, and other stakeholders to take the lead in sustaining peace and development, while security forces remain prepared to respond to emerging threats.
The Joint Task Force Diamond and 4ID said reports from concerned citizens allowed troops to respond immediately and prevent what it described as displaced armed elements from establishing a foothold in the community.
“This is precisely what SIPS is about,” the statement said, emphasizing that the framework is not only about the absence of armed conflict but also about communities participating in protecting peace and security.
The military also said the presence of NPA members in Bakingking does not indicate a resurgence of insurgency in Caraga.
Instead, the Army described the group involved in the encounters as displaced armed elements from Region 10 that were attempting to enter areas in Caraga previously cleared of insurgent activity. This assessment reflects the military’s position on the situation.
Relief Assistance
Following the armed encounters, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided food assistance to residents affected by the conflict situation in Barangay Bakingking.
On September 14, a total of 260 Family Food Packswere distributed to affected families to provide immediate food support.
The assistance was initiated by the DSWD and facilitated through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) headed by Edgardo Z. Cerna, RSW, Social Welfare Development Officer, together with MSWDO personnel.
The activity was supported by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the 26th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army.
The distribution aimed to address the immediate needs of families whose daily activities and livelihood were affected by the security situation.
Continued Response
Esperanza Mayor Deo Manpatilan Jr. earlier said residents of Barangay Bakingking and nearby communities remained safe following the encounters.
The local government also extended assistance to affected residents and farmers whose livelihood activities were disrupted during the operations.
The Army said it would continue coordinating with local government units, law enforcement agencies, communities, and other stakeholders while civilian institutions lead peace and development initiatives under the SIPS framework.
Government agencies continue to provide assistance and monitor the situation as security and humanitarian efforts move forward in the affected communities.
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