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Soldiers

Justice Served: Philippine Army Neutralizes NPA Leader in Leyte

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The death of New People's Army leader Juanito Sellesa Jr., alias Tibor, and two others tagged as suspects in the murder of civilians in Leyte, has brought justice to the victims, according to Philippine Army officials. Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, praised the successful combat operation of the 93rd Infantry Battalion that led to the death of Tibor and two other rebels, Eugene Paclita and Lito Laurente, on June 18. The neutralization of Tibor and his group serves as justice for the family of Jesus Sarcilla, who was killed by the NPA in 2021, and faces charges of violating the International Humanitarian Law.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Philippine Army successfully neutralized NPA leader Juanito Sellesa Jr., alias Tibor, and two other rebels in a combat operation on June 18 in Carigara, Leyte.
  • Tibor and his group were tagged as suspects in the murder of civilians, including Jesus Sarcilla, who was killed in 2021, and faces charges of violating the International Humanitarian Law.
  • The Philippine Army recovered an M16 rifle, a .45 caliber pistol, a hand grenade, personal belongings, and subversive documents from the rebel's temporary hideout after the clash.
  • Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir urged the remnants of the NPA to abandon the armed struggle and take advantage of government programs, warning them that they will suffer the same bloody end if they continue to pursue the path of revolution.
  • The Philippine Army continues to offer amnesty to NPA members who will surrender and lay down their arms before the end of the month.

Statistics:

  • 3 NPA rebels were killed in the combat operation on June 18 in Carigara, Leyte.
  • 2 rebels were wounded in the operation.
  • An M16 rifle, a .45 caliber pistol, a hand grenade, personal belongings, and subversive documents were recovered from the rebel's temporary hideout.
  • Jesus Sarcilla was killed by the NPA in Binibihan village, Leyte on December 7, 2021.

Sources:

  • Philippine News Agency (June 19, 2025)
  • Philippine Army (June 19, 2025)
  • Regional Trial Court (charges filed)
  • Commission on Human Rights' Eastern Visayas regional office (charges filed)

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