Joedil Cayapos Virtudazo with aliases "Jerby" and "Janjalani," a Political Officer of the NPA’s Regional Sentro De Grabidad, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (RSDG, NEMRC) was killed in a 20-minute firefight at Sitio Paradise, Barangay Santa Juana, Tagbina, during the commemoration of the Communist Party of the Philippines' (CPP) anniversary on December 26.
Jerby’s sister Pablita Virtudazo Casanoza claimed the remains of her brother.
During the encounter, the soldiers recovered one R4 Carbine Rifle, one M4 Rifle, and three cellular phones with SIM cards at the site.
According to 67th IB Commander Lieutenant Colonel Edwin I Pia, the CTG intended to cause disturbances in connection with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)’s founding anniversary on said date, aiming to discredit the government, particularly in Surigao del Sur.
He said the group also planned to reinfiltrate the insurgency free Davao Region.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Allan D. Hambala, 10th ID Commander, commended the swift action of his troops against the CTG, emphasizing the readiness of ground troops to secure communities.
"The death of Joedil Virtudazo, a notorious NPA leader in Northern Mindanao is a significant blow against the NEMRC. It surely weakens their leadership and their will to fight,” Hambala said.
Hambala reiterates calls on the remaining CNTs to abandon the armed struggle, assuring of their safety and well-being.