AFP, CTG clash on New Year’s Day in Occidental Mindoro

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) clashed with a communist terrorist group (CTG) at Abra de Ilog in Occidental Mindoro on 01 January 2026.

According to reports, a series of armed encounters with New People’s Army (NPA) elements occurred on 01 January 2026.

Troops from the 76th Infantry (Victrix) Battalion, 1st Infantry (Always First) Battalion, 59th Infantry (Protector) Battalion, and the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion encountered remnants of the dismantled Komiteng Larangang Gerilya–Island Committee Mindoro (KLG-ICM) under the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee at Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, resulting in three successive encounters throughout the day.

One soldier was wounded during one of the encounters, while casualties on the CTG side are still being verified.

In a statement, 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division Spokesperson and Division Public Affairs Office Chief Colonel Michael Aquino noted that the clashes occurred despite the Communist Party of the Philippines’ earlier declaration of a temporary ceasefire for the holiday season.

"These incidents show that even with public ceasefire declarations, some armed elements remain active and continue to pose threats to communities," Aquino said.

He added that security operations are ongoing in the area to prevent the regrouping of NPA elements and to ensure community safety. He also urged civilians to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

"Public cooperation remains crucial. Information from concerned citizens allows government forces to act swiftly and decisively," Aquino said.

The 2nd Infantry Division reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and security operations in coordination with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and communities to prevent armed groups from regaining a foothold and to maintain stability in Occidental Mindoro.