7 NPA rebels killed in Masbate clash; AFP reports over 1,000 neutralized in 2025
The firefight, which lasted about 30 minutes, was carried out by the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army under Joint Task Force Bicolandia, operating within the 9th Infantry Division. High-powered firearms were recovered at the encounter site.
According to the AFP, the operation is part of its ongoing, intelligence-driven campaign to suppress insurgent activities in the Bicol Region.
'This tactical victory significantly weakens the CPP-NPA-NDF in Bicol, as the AFP continues to push for peaceful surrender and reintegration through the E-CLIP program,' the military said in its weekly briefing.
The clash in Masbate marks one of the latest actions in the AFP's intensified counterinsurgency efforts. From January 1 to July 24, 2025, the military has recorded the neutralization of 1,005 CTG members and supporters across the country.
Breakdown of the figures includes:
867 who surrendered,
71 apprehended, and
67 killed in armed engagements
Additionally, 540 firearms and 302 anti-personnel mines were recovered or surrendered, while 96 encampments were taken over by government forces.
The AFP also reported progress in its campaign against Local Terrorist Groups (LTGs). Since January, 128 LTG members and supporters have been neutralized — 114 surrendered, four were arrested, and ten were killed. Troops also recovered 142 firearms, five anti-personnel mines, and seized five encampments from LTG elements.
The military reiterated its call for remaining armed groups to return to the fold of the law and avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides assistance for those willing to reintegrate into mainstream society. — Sherylin Untalan/BAP, GMA Integrated News
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