ILOILO CITY – In a major breakthrough for Philippine security forces, a high-ranking Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) commander labeled as one of the country's most wanted individuals has been apprehended during a meticulously planned operation in Jaro district.
The suspect, identified as Ronie Bita-on y Tajan, also known by aliases "Bobby" and "Ramon," was captured by combined elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army on Tuesday afternoon. The operation culminated at his suspected hideout in Barangay Bito-On.
Substantial Bounty and Criminal Charges
Bita-on carried a staggering P2.55 million bounty on his head, authorized under the Department of National Defense and Department of Interior and Local Government Joint Order. The substantial reward reflected his status as the number one most wanted person in the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) jurisdiction.
The captured commander faces multiple serious charges including:
- Murder cases filed in Guimbal, Iloilo Regional Trial Court
- Attempted murder charges
- Destruction of government property
- Violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act
Intelligence-Driven Operation
PRO-6 Director Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky revealed that the successful apprehension resulted from weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance operations. Security forces had been monitoring Bita-on's movements and patterns before executing the strategic arrest.
"This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to neutralizing threats to national security," stated Brig. Gen. Wanky. "The capture of this high-value target significantly weakens the CTG's operational capabilities in Western Visayas."
Ongoing Campaign Against Insurgency
The arrest marks a significant victory in the government's comprehensive campaign against communist insurgency. Bita-on's capture follows increased coordination between various law enforcement and military units targeting most-wanted individuals with established bounties.
Authorities have transferred the suspect to a secure facility where he awaits formal charges and legal proceedings. The successful operation has been hailed as a testament to improved intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation in combating terrorism throughout the Philippines.
