2 NPA members captured in armed encounter in Isabela

Two suspected members of the dismantled Komiteng Rehiyon‑Cagayan Valley (KRCV) of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were apprehended following an armed encounter with elements of the 86th “Highlander” Infantry Battalion in Barangay Dicamay 2, Jones, Isabela, at about 6:00 AM on 20 April 2025.

According to the initial report, a concerned citizen tipped off authorities about the presence of armed individuals believed to be remnants of the communist group. Acting swiftly on the information, the 86IB launched a combat patrol in the area, leading to a brief firefight that resulted in the arrest of two individuals whose identities are still being verified.

Recovered from the encounter site were two M16A1 rifles, several magazines and rounds of ammunition, and various personal belongings.

Major General Gulliver L. Señires, commander of the 5th Infantry Division (5ID), reiterated his call for the remaining members of KRCV and the wider CTG to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.

“Hinihikayat ko muli ang mga nalalabing miyembro ng KRCV maging ang ICRC: Hindi pa huli ang lahat. Ang pintuan ng pagbabalik-loob ay bukas pa rin. Ngunit habang pinipili ninyong humawak ng armas, kami ay mananatiling matatag sa aming paninindigan na ipaglaban ang kapayapaan para sa taong-bayan.”

(“I once again encourage the remaining members of the KRCV and ICRC: It is not yet too late. The door to reconciliation remains open. But while you choose to bear arms, we will remain steadfast in our duty to defend peace for the people.”)

He further emphasized:

“Ang aming mandato ay malinaw — protektahan ang mamamayan at panatilihin ang katahimikan sa ating nasasakupan. Hindi tayo mag-aatubiling gampanan ito, lalo na kung ang ating seguridad ay patuloy na nilalapastangan.”

(“Our mandate is clear — to protect the people and maintain peace within our jurisdiction. We will not hesitate to carry out this duty, especially when our security continues to be violated.”)

Earlier this month, on 14 April, MGen Señires extended a heartfelt invitation to remaining CTG members to avail of the government’s Safe Conduct Pass program and reintegrate into society. Despite the offer, some members continued to resist, resulting in the latest clash in Isabela.

The 5ID confirmed that this recent encounter is a direct consequence of the group’s persistent refusal to embrace peace and end the senseless armed struggle.