Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat – A decisive military operation conducted by a Scout Platoon from the 37th Infantry Battalion (37IB) under the leadership of LTC Christopherson Capuyan INF(GSC) PA resulted in a series of armed encounters with Communist Terrorists (CTs) in Barangay Sangay, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, on February 7, 2025.
The initial clash occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. when the 37IB troops engaged members of Platoon 2, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR). The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes before the enemy forces withdrew in a northeast direction.
Undeterred, the Scout Platoon continued their pursuit of the fleeing CTs. At around 10:15 a.m., another skirmish erupted within Barangay Sangay, lasting approximately eight minutes. Once again, the enemy was forced to retreat in the same direction, unable to withstand the sustained military offensive.
During clearing operations, troops recovered the body of a slain rebel identified only as alias “Cardo,” a member of Platoon Dos, PG, SRC Daguma under alias “Brix.” Additionally, government forces seized an M16 rifle (SN RP 026693), four M16 magazines, and several rounds of ammunition from the retreating insurgents.
The 37IB continues to conduct follow-up operations and a thorough assessment of the encounters to ensure the complete dismantling of terrorist threats in the area.
Brigadier General Michael A. Santos PA, Commander of the 603rd Infantry (PERSUADER) Brigade, lauded the troops, particularly Corporal Dayota and Private First Class Hojilia, who sustained minor injuries in the engagements.
“This encounter serves as a testament to the strength and resolve of our troops. I urge the remaining members of the communist terrorist group to lay down their arms and embrace the path to peace,” BGEN Santos said.
He further emphasized the military’s unwavering stance against insurgency, stating, “We will not stop conducting military operations to suppress the remaining terrorists until they surrender. As we’ve always said, they still have the option to surrender, and the government stands ready to provide them with opportunities to rebuild their lives with their families.”
The 37IB, in coordination with higher command units, remains committed to maintaining peace and order in Sultan Kudarat by intensifying its security operations and encouraging rebels to return to the fold of the law.