NATION

Ranking Albay NPA official killed

Jonas Reyes · Jul 22, 2026, 1:53 AM

FOUR high-powered firearms and war materiel are recovered by the 49th Infantry Battalion following two successive clashes with New People’s Army rebels in Pioduran, Albay, on 17 July 2026. The operation resulted in the death of NPA leader Nelson Nuyda, alias ‘Chubby.’ — PHOTOGRAPH courtesy OF 901st Infantry ‘Fight ‘Em’ Brigade, Philippine ArmY

A high-ranking official of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed after troops from the 49th Infantry Battalion engaged communist insurgents in two armed encounters in Barangay Matanglad and Barangay Buyo, Pioduran, Albay.

Military officials identified the deceased NPA leader as Nelson Nuyda, alias “Chubby,” who served as a committee member of KLG1, SRC3 and BRPC.

The operations were conducted by the 49th Infantry Battalion under the 901st Infantry Brigade as part of an ongoing campaign against internal conflict in Albay province.

Following the clashes, soldiers recovered four high-caliber rifles and other war materiel from the scene.

Brig. Gen. Emil J. Cruz, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, expressed gratitude to the government, police and residents of Albay for collaborating with soldiers to support provincial security.

Cruz commended the 49th Infantry Battalion for the successful operation, noting in Tagalog that the victory proves the government’s continuous fight against the group will not stop while any remaining members are left in Albay.