Lanao del sur: A communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed following a clash with government troops in Lanao del Sur, the military reported. Brig. Gen. Billy Dela Rosa, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, confirmed that the 16th Scout Ranger Company engaged remnants of the NPA Sub-Regional Committee-5 (SRC-5) in Barangay Bandara Ingod, resulting in the death of an unidentified rebel armed with an M16 rifle.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Dela Rosa noted that no government casualties were reported in the encounter, which marked the ninth clash between government troops and SRC-5 remnants since January. The ongoing conflict highlights the persistent efforts of the military to combat insurgency in the region.

In a related development, a member of the same group surrendered to authorities last week following a clash in Barangay Pagonayan, Amai Manabilang. This surrender underscores the military’s strategy of combining tactical operations with efforts to encourage defections from the insurgent ranks.

Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, reiterated the commitment to sustain military operations aimed at dismantling the remaining SRC-5 elements. He emphasized the importance of continuing peace and development programs in collaboration with local governments in Lanao del Sur, seeking to stabilize the region and support community development initiatives.