What was supposed to be a quiet start to the New Year turned tense in Occidental Mindoro, as government troops figured in a series of armed clashes with communist rebels on 1 January.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said soldiers encountered New People’s Army (NPA) elements in Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, triggering three successive firefights that unfolded throughout the day.

Troops from the 76th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Battalion, 59th Infantry Battalion, and the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion were involved in the encounters against remnants of the dismantled Komiteng Larangang Gerilya–Island Committee Mindoro (KLG-ICM) under the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee.

One soldier was wounded in one of the clashes, according to military reports. The AFP said it is still verifying possible casualties on the rebels’ side.

In a statement, 2nd Infantry Division spokesperson Col. Michael Aquino pointed out that the encounters happened despite the Communist Party of the Philippines’ earlier announcement 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.

Security operations in the area are continuing, he added, as troops work to prevent the regrouping of armed elements and ensure the safety of nearby communities.

Aquino also appealed to residents to stay vigilant and immediately report any suspicious movements.

“Public cooperation remains crucial. Information from concerned citizens allows government forces to act swiftly and decisively,” he said.

The 2nd Infantry Division reaffirmed its commitment to sustained peace and security operations, in coordination with local government units, police, and communities, to keep armed groups from regaining a foothold in Occidental Mindoro.