A high-profile communist rebel long sought by authorities was arrested in a decisive joint operation by government forces in Barangay Jamorawon, Milagros, Masbate, putting an end to years of evasion and violence.
The suspect, identified by the alias “Rimbo,” 39 years old and a resident of Barangay Barag, Mobo in Masbate, was apprehended around 9:00 AM on April 28, 2025, during the enforcement of an arrest warrant in Sitio Asid-Asid. He was flagged as the fourth most wanted person in the Bicol Region and is an alleged member of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilla–South, operating under the Sub-Regional Committee 4. Authorities confirmed his direct association with a notorious figure, Rudy Catamora Saludar.
The successful operation was carried out by combined forces from the Masbate 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), led by its Force Commander, Police Lieutenant Colonel Freddie C. Herry, together with the Milagros Municipal Police Station (MPS), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of the Masbate Police Provincial Office (PPO), in coordination with Mobo MPS and soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (2IB, PA).
Following his arrest, Rimbo was immediately placed under the custody of the Milagros MPS for processing and legal procedures. He is facing serious charges, including violations of RA 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020; Attempted Murder; Frustrated Murder; Multiple Counts of Attempted Murder; Direct Assault; Grave Threats; and Slight Physical Injuries.
PRO5 Regional Director, PBGen Andre P. Dizon, lauded the teamwork and intelligence coordination of the operating forces that led to the successful capture of the fugitive. He reiterated the commitment of the Kasurog Cops to neutralizing lawless elements and dismantling insurgent groups that threaten peace and development in the Bicol region.
Under the leadership of PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, PNP assured the public that continuous operations against insurgents and wanted individuals will be further intensified as part of the government’s broader effort to protect communities and uphold the rule of law nationwide.
