A suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed during an encounter with government troops in Barangay Juan Andre, Donsol, Sorsogon on March 25, the Philippine Army said.
Troops from the 31st Infantry (Charge) Battalion responded to reports from residents about the presence of an armed group believed to be members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating under the Independent Platoon of the BRPC.
According to the Army, about seven suspected CTG members were involved in the encounter. Government forces immediately launched an operation after receiving the report, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire.
One suspected rebel was killed during the clash and was identified as Jason Mosteles, also known by the aliases Justine and Jake. The remaining members of the group reportedly fled in different directions after the firefight.
Authorities confirmed that no soldiers were killed or injured during the encounter.
Following the exchange of gunfire, troops conducted clearing operations in the area and recovered one high-caliber firearm along with other war materials believed to have been left behind by the fleeing suspects.
Lt. Col. Cliff Chester L. De Ocampo, commanding officer of the 31st Infantry Battalion, called on remaining members of the armed group to surrender and abandon what he described as a misguided ideology.
Military officials said operations remain ongoing in the area to ensure the safety and security of nearby communities.
The Army continues to coordinate with local residents as part of efforts to maintain peace and order in the affected barangay.
