Government troops and suspected members of the Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC) of the New People’s Army (NPA) engaged in successive armed encounters in Barangay Maragat, Kabugao, on April 5 and 7, 2025, resulting in the recovery of high-powered firearms and explosives.
According to the 5th Infantry Division (5ID), the initial skirmish occurred after residents reported the presence of armed individuals in Sitio Dagui. Soldiers from the 98th Infantry Battalion (98IB) immediately conducted operations and encountered approximately 20 members of the ICRC.
Recovered from the site were two M16 rifles, one Garand rifle, one M203 rifle, a 9mm pistol, 22 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), a rifle grenade, ammunition, eight mobile phones, five SIM cards, 10 USB devices, four SD cards, and personal belongings, some marked with traces of blood.
A follow-up operation on April 7 led to another armed clash with the same group—believed to be Platoon Dos of the ICRC in the same area.
Lieutenant Colonel Melchor L. Balasi, Commanding Officer of the 98IB, reiterated the battalion’s commitment to sustaining pressure against armed insurgency.
“These successive encounters clearly demonstrate that the CNTs are on the retreat and losing ground rapidly. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect our communities, and we strongly urge the remaining members of this terrorist group to surrender, return to the folds of law, and choose the path of peace. Those who continue to resist will face the full force of justice and the consequences of their violent actions,” Balasi said.
He also called on the yApayaos to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities and stressed that the fleeing insurgents are running out of safe havens.
Meanwhile, 5ID Commander, Major General Gulliver L. Señires reiterated that the window for surrender had been open long enough. According to Señires, enough time was given for rebels to return to the fold and that the government will now pursue remaining members of the terrorist group with urgency.
Security forces continue to conduct follow-up operations in the area as part of intensified efforts to clear the province of armed threats and maintain peace in the province.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. By Jess Christley Marquez
