MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – Six New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas, including two female combatants, were killed in a series of encounters with government forces in Barangays Dumalaguing and Guihean, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, on August 13 and 17, 2025

Brig. Gen. Seigfred Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, reported that troops first engaged members of the NPA’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in Barangay Dumalaguing on August 13. The clash resulted in the deaths of four rebels, including one female fighter.

The fatalities were later identified as Noel Gabote, alias Julius/Jose; Bador Arrellano, alias Choy; Noel Domino, alias Noel/Jairo/Renz; and Roxanne Saraus, alias Sham/Yanda/Yas/Nine. Their remains were airlifted to a funeral home in Malaybalay City for proper handling. Soldiers also recovered a high-powered firearm, subversive documents, and personal belongings abandoned by retreating rebels.

Acting on civilian tip-offs, combined forces from the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, 1st Special Forces Battalion, 26th Infantry Battalion, 88th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Battalion, and the 4th Division Reconnaissance Battalion launched the coordinated operations. Close air support from the Philippine Air Force’s Tactical Operations Group 10 and artillery fire from the 4th Field Artillery Battalion were also employed to suppress enemy forces while minimizing risks to soldiers.

A follow-up encounter occurred in Barangay Guihean on August 17, where two more rebels—a man and a woman—were killed in a hot pursuit operation. The military believes they were among the NPA fighters involved in the Dumalaguing clash. Troops recovered five more high-powered firearms, additional war materiel, subversive documents, and personal effects at the scene.

Maj. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division, lauded the joint effort of the soldiers and local communities, emphasizing that the victory highlights their united stand against insurgency.

“This success reflects the strong partnership between our troops and the people, many of whom have long suffered from the NPA’s abuse, coercion, and deceit,” Anayron said.

He renewed his call for the remaining rebels to surrender and embrace peace to prevent further loss of lives.

The remains of the slain insurgents have since been turned over to their families. (melbmadera)