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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 2 NPA rebels dead in Capiz clash – military

2 NPA rebels dead in Capiz clash – military

Published Sep 21, 2025 03:46 pm
Two suspected communist rebels were killed during an armed encounter between the Philippine Army (PA) and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Tapaz, Capiz on Saturday, Sept. 20.
The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said combined troops from the 82nd Infantry Battalion, 61st Infantry Battalion, and 12th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operations in the hinterlands of Barangay Katipunan around 7:45 a.m. when they were engaged by seven armed men.
The gunmen were believed to be part of the Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay (KR-P), according to Captain Jessie Jun Ebalan, 3ID spokesperson.
Ebalan said the troops received a tip from concerned citizens that armed men were in the area so they immediately deployed troops to verify the report.
The clash lasted for several minutes and when the firefight ended, two bodies were recovered by the operating troops.
“The identities of the slain CTG [communist-terrorist groups] remnants are still being verified,” Ebalan said.
Two M-16 assault rifles and an M653 rifle, a rifle grenade, explosives, ammunition, magazines, and personal belongings were also retrieved from the encounter site.
Meanwhile, no casualty was reported on the government’s side, according to Ebalan.
Major General Michael G. Samson, 3ID commander, commended the troops for their swift and decisive action which resulted in the neutralization of more remnants of the KR-P and capture of the group's high-powered firearms.
He also acknowledged the vital role played by the local community in the operation’s success.
“This victory is not only a testament to the dedication and bravery of our soldiers, but also to the overwhelming support and vigilance of the people of Tapaz. The timely information provided by concerned citizens was instrumental in the success of this operation,” Samson said.
He also reiterated his call to the remaining members of the NPA to abandon the armed struggle and reintegrate with the mainstream society.
“We urge the remnants of the CTG to reflect on the fate of their fallen comrades and avoid the same tragic end. Return to the folds of the law, reintegrate into mainstream society, and avail of government reintegration programs such as the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and the amnesty initiatives,” the 3ID commander said.
This has been the second encounter of the military with the NPA in Tapaz, Capiz since last week. An alleged NPA medic identified by the 3ID as Christine May Capaducio was killed in an encounter with troops of the 61st Infantry Battalion in Brgy. Lahug last September 13, according to 3ID.

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3rd Infantry Division NPA Philippine Army Capiz
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