PLACER, Surigao del Norte — Soldiers from the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, extended immediate medical assistance to two wounded members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) following a firefight in the hinterlands of Sitio Livas, Barangay Sibahay, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, on the evening of June 25, 2025.
The encounter occurred at around 5:30 p.m. and lasted for approximately 30 minutes. After the clash, the soldiers administered first aid to the injured rebels, later identified as Ivy Angeles alias “Marga” and Johnrey Cabadongga alias “Joseph.” The two were then transported to the Madrid District Hospital for initial treatment before being transferred to Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City for further care.
The firefight was between government troops and a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) squad led by Edmar Maca Mahinay alias “Renren,” identified as remnants of the SRSDG Westland under the Northeast Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
In addition to the capture of the two wounded rebels, the soldiers also recovered a Magpul rifle, magazines, ammunition, and various personal belongings and war materials from the encounter site. One government soldier sustained minor injuries during the operation and was also given appropriate medical treatment.
Lt. Col. Vincent Viray, commanding officer of the 36IB, assured the public that the wounded CNTs are in stable condition and emphasized the army’s commitment to international humanitarian principles.
“In line with one of the principles of International Humanitarian Law — Humanity or Humane Treatment — our soldiers treated the wounded CNTs without adverse distinction. They are hors de combat and incapable of fighting back,” Lt. Col. Viray stated.
Brig. Gen. Arsenio DC Sadural, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, praised the professionalism of the troops and their adherence to human rights standards.
“This incident is a testament to our soldiers’ discipline and dedication to upholding human rights and International Humanitarian Law. Contrary to the propaganda of the Communist Terrorist Group, our troops conduct operations with full respect for human dignity,” Brig. Gen. Sadural said.
Military authorities continue to pursue remaining CTG elements in the region as part of sustained efforts to restore peace and security in Surigao del Sur.