BAGUIO CITY — A soldier was wounded following a morning encounter between government troops and suspected members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army in Bucay, Abra on 19 December 2025.

The firefight occurred at around 7:03 a.m. in Sitio Tacdanga, Barangay Abang, when troops from the 1st Platoon of the 77th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, were conducting strike operations and encountered an estimated three NPA fighters.

The rebels are believed to be members of Platoon Uno under the Ilocos-Cordillera Regional Committee.

Based on initial field reports, one government soldier was declared wounded in action during the exchange. There was no immediate information on possible casualties on the side of the rebels, who retreated from the encounter site.

Following the clash, military units across the province tightened security measures to prevent further movement by insurgent groups. Local authorities in Bucay are closely monitoring the situation in Barangay Abang to ensure civilian safety, as clearing operations continue.