Four members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with government forces in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, on Wednesday, August 13.
According to the Philippine Army’s 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade (4IB), its troops encountered the rebels in the upland areas of the city. The slain individuals, believed to be part of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, included three men and one woman. Their identities have not yet been released.
The military said the bodies were brought to a funeral home for proper handling. Soldiers also recovered several pieces of equipment left behind by the rebels at the encounter site.
Brig. Gen. Seigfred Tubalado, commander of the 4IB, said the operation was made possible through focused military actions and information shared by local residents.
Tubalado also appealed to the remaining NPA members in the region to surrender and reintegrate with their families.
“Choose peace. Choose your family. Choose a new beginning. Let’s work together for our development,” he added.
The Philippine Army continues operations against armed groups in Northern Mindanao, where the NPA has maintained a presence for decades.
