Sibagat, Agusan del Sur – Troops from the 65th Infantry (Stalwart) Battalion (65IB) of the Philippine Army engaged in a firefight with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Brgy. New Tubigon, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, at approximately 3:30 PM on March 4.
The encounter occurred as a result of a Focused Military Operation (FMO) launched after receiving intelligence from concerned residents regarding the presence of armed insurgents in the area. The operation targeted elements of the NPA’s Platoon 3, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), reportedly under the leadership of Emmie Mar Mersa Anub, alias “Dongkoy,” and remnants of the Regional Headquarters (RHQ) led by Roel T. Neniel, alias “Jacob.”
The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes, resulting in the recovery of one M16A1 rifle, assorted medical supplies, food rations, and various war materials. No casualties were reported on the side of government troops, while pursuit operations remain underway to track down the fleeing rebels.
Lieutenant Colonel Ray Anthony A. Sisican, Acting Commanding Officer of the 65IB, praised the soldiers for their commitment to maintaining security in the area. He emphasized that the downfall of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) is imminent and urged the remaining rebels to surrender. “While we continue to urge them to return to the folds of the law, we will remain relentless in our operations to ensure lasting peace for the people of Sibagat and Bayugan, who have long suffered from insurgent activities,” he said.
The 65IB acknowledged the vital role of local communities in combatting insurgency, crediting the vigilance of residents for the success of the recent military operation. Authorities encourage the public to remain proactive in reporting any suspicious activities to help sustain security efforts.
Additionally, the military reiterated its call for remaining NPA members to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s reintegration programs, which offer a pathway toward a more peaceful and productive future. Authorities affirm their commitment to providing former rebels with opportunities to reintegrate into society through livelihood assistance and other support mechanisms.