One member of New People’s Army was killed, and high-powered firearms were seized following an encounter with government troops in Sorsogon province on Tuesday morning, military officials said.
Troops from the 31st Infantry Battalion clashed with members of the New People’s Army at the boundary of Barangay Banban in Donsol town and Barangay Catamlangan in Pilar town at about 9 a.m. on Jan. 20, 2026.
The fatality was identified as Bernardo Bodigon, also known as “Rico,” who was described by the military as a remnant of Sub-Regional Committee 3 under the Bicol Regional Party Committee.
Soldiers recovered two M16 rifles, assorted equipment and one improvised explosive device from the encounter site. Military officials said the use of improvised explosive devices is prohibited due to the danger they pose to civilians in nearby communities.
The group involved in the clash was reportedly led by Edgar Calag, also known as “Lucio,” who is wanted for multiple criminal cases, including murder and rape, according to the military.
Pursuit operations are ongoing to locate the remaining members of Sub-Regional Committee 3 in the area, the Army said.
Lt. Col. Clint Chester De Ocampo, commanding officer of the 31st Infantry Battalion, said Calag has been using the NPA as cover for his alleged criminal activities and stressed that crimes committed against civilians must be answered with justice.
Brig. Gen. Emil Cruz, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, said the operation was part of efforts to maintain peace and security, particularly in rural areas. He urged remaining NPA members to surrender, saying their families are waiting for them.
The 31st Infantry Battalion operates under the 901st Infantry Brigade, which is responsible for security operations in Donsol and Pilar towns in Sorsogon, as well as the first and second districts of Albay province.
