Clash in Masbate: Two NPA Rebels Killed, Firearms Seized by Philippine Army

Masbate, Philippines — A recent encounter between Philippine Army troops and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) resulted in the deaths of two insurgents in Barangay San Roque, Esperanza town, Masbate province. The clash also led to the seizure of firearms and other items.

According to Philippines News Agency, chief of the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) Public Affairs Unit, the troops engaged with at least eight rebels from the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla-South, Sub-Regional Committee-4. The firefight, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, ended with the rebels retreating and leaving behind two deceased members, whose identities are pending confirmation. “After the 15-minute firefight, the NPA members escaped toward different areas, leaving behind their dead comrades. We are still waiting for the identities of the two NPA members who were killed during the clash,” Roldan stated.

Recovered from the site were an M653 rifle, a caliber .38 revolver, and various personal belongings of the rebels. The military continues to conduct pursuit operations in the area to locate the remaining insurgents.

The 9ID has called on local residents to assist by providing information on the whereabouts of any insurgents, as part of broader efforts to ensure public safety and eradicate insurgency in the Bicol region. The military has intensified operations against armed groups in the area to secure peace and stability for local communities.