Government troops clashed with suspected members of the New People’s Army in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, leaving one rebel leader dead and a high-powered firearm recovered, the military said.
The encounter took place Feb. 15, 2026, in the hinterlands of Sitio Tacocon, Barangay Kasapa II, involving soldiers from the 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion under Lt. Col. Jeorge R. Jallorina. The unit is part of the 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade.
The military said one Communist NPA Terrorist leader was neutralized during the firefight. Troops also recovered a high-powered firearm at the scene.
After the clash, soldiers secured the remains of the deceased and ensured proper handling and documentation under standard protocols. The remains were transported to a hospital and a nearby funeral home for appropriate services.
The 403rd Infantry Brigade said it is coordinating with local government units, the Philippine National Police and other agencies to inform the family and provide burial assistance.
Brig. Gen. Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for their response and said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle remaining armed groups in Northern Mindanao.
Tubalado also appealed to remaining members of the group to surrender and return to civilian life, extending condolences to the family of the fatality. He said the brigade remains committed to protecting communities and conducting operations with professionalism and respect for human rights.
