A member of the New People’s Army was killed in an encounter with government forces in Barangay Monteclaro, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, early Friday morning.

According to the 203rd Infantry Brigade, the firefight broke out during a combat operation launched by the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Battalion under the 2nd Infantry Division. 

The operation was prompted by reports from the local residents about the presence of armed insurgents in the area.

Upon arrival, troops engaged the communist rebels in a brief gun battle that resulted in the death of one NPA member. 

No casualties were reported on the side of the government forces.

Following the clash, soldiers recovered an M16 rifle, four magazines, live ammunition, an analog phone, and several subversive documents believed to have been left behind by the fleeing insurgents. 

Verification of the recovered materials is ongoing as pursuit operations continue.

Military officials attribute the success of the operation to the growing cooperation between local communities and government forces.

“This operational gain underscores the increasing support of our citizens who are choosing peace and rejecting the presence of armed groups in their barangays,” the 2ID said in a statement.

2ID Commander Major General Ramon Zagala reiterated the military’s commitment to ending the local communist armed conflict through focused military operations and community partnerships.

“While we do not rejoice in the loss of any Filipino life—including those who have been deceived into taking up arms against the government—we are duty-bound to protect our people and uphold the rule of law,” Zagala said.

He also issued a warning to the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), urging them to abandon their armed struggle.

“Let this serve as a reminder to the remaining members of the CTG—there is no place for violence and intimidation in our communities,” he said. 

“We will not rest until peace is fully achieved in Mindoro and the rest of our area of operations.”

The military continues to conduct clearing and security operations in nearby areas to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further insurgent activities.