New Army Commander Urged to End NPA Insurgency in Negros

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – Major General Marion Sison, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID), has issued a directive to Brig. Gen. Ted Dumosmog to “find, fix, and finish” the remaining New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents in Negros Island.

Dumosmog officially assumed command of the 303rd Infantry Brigade (IBde) during the 126th Al Cinco de Noviembre commemoration on Nov. 5. He succeeded Brig. Gen. Orlando Edralin, who served nearly two years and is now retiring.

Sison presided over the turnover ceremony at the 303rd IBde headquarters in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia town. He also promoted Dumosmog from Colonel to Brigadier General upon his assumption of the new post.

In his address, Sison acknowledged the presence of NPA remnants in Negros, urging continued vigilance. “Hindi pa tapos ang laban (The fight is not yet over). Let us not relax,” he said.

Sison reported that the Army’s efforts in Negros have achieved 95% success against insurgency, but warned that a remaining 5% of the insurgents continue to pose a threat.

“Let us not give the NPA a chance to resurge. Tapusin na natin ito (Let us put an end to this),” he added.

He recognized the challenges ahead, noting that they face “thinking enemies,” but expressed confidence in Dumosmog’s capability to handle the task.

In his message, Dumosmog reflected on his prior assignments with the 3ID, including as a platoon leader of the 47th IB. “I am deeply humbled and honored to accept this command responsibility,” he said.

Dumosmog pledged to tackle the challenge head-on, aiming to fulfill his duties and missions. He highlighted that maintaining peace is more demanding than waging war.

He emphasized the need to prevent a return to the previous conditions in Negros, marked by violence, underdevelopment, and limited opportunities.

“We will strive to create an environment where every citizen can live without fear,” Dumosmog said, stressing the importance of engaging local communities, listening to their concerns, and empowering them to shape a brighter future.

Dumosmog also emphasized collaboration with stakeholders, local government units, national agencies, and police counterparts to achieve lasting peace and development, preventing insurgent re-entry.

“Let us march in unison as we continue to serve the people of Negros,” Dumosmog said.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1991, Dumosmog previously served as officer-in-charge of the 403rd IBde and assistant division commander for Reservist and Retiree Affairs in the 4ID, among other key roles.

The 303rd IBde oversees the 79th, 62nd, and 94th Infantry Battalions (IBs) in northern and central Negros, while the 11th, 15th, and 47th IBs are under the operational control of the 302nd IBde. Both brigades report to the 3ID.