A high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA), wanted for multiple criminal cases, was arrested in a joint military and police operation around 3:00 PM on June 5, 2025, in Barangay Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City. Brigadier General Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, identified the suspect as Edward J. Flores, also known by the aliases Cess, Ruby, Rafa, and Ramon. The arrest took place at Habitat Phase 2, a Sendong relocation site, through the service of outstanding warrants. Authorities recovered from Flores a Colt .45 pistol, a fragmentation grenade, and a smartphone believed to contain sensitive communication data.
According to reports, Flores served as the Secretary of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), which operates across the extensive area of the 6ID’s jurisdiction. Once a powerful figure, Flores’ group has significantly weakened due to sustain decisive military operations that dismantled vertical platoon and neutralization of majority of its leaders and remaining members.
He is also known to have previously held positions such as Regional Urban Committee Secretary, Secretary of Dismantled Guerilla Front (DGF) TALA, and Spokesperson of FSMR, all of which align with the CPP-NPA-NDF’s broader strategy to destabilize government efforts and local peace initiatives.
Flores is facing multiple criminal charges, including:
- Murder (Criminal Case No. 25602) under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code, filed at RTC Branch 1, Tagum City, Davao del Norte
- Multiple Attempted Homicide (CC No. 3310-3023-LS) at RTC Branch 6, Surallah, South Cotabato
- Murder (CC No. 24-8189-SNA) under Article 248 of the RPC at RTC Branch 19, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
- Violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (CC No. 24-29291) at RTC Branch 19, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to sustained operations against all remaining CTG elements. The arrest of Flores not only disrupts enemy leadership but also strengthens the momentum towards ending the local communist armed conflict and restoring long-term peace in the region.
via Kampilan News
