CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Government troops under the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division scored another major victory against the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) following a clash in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, on August 17, 2025, killing two insurgents and recovering high-powered firearms and subversive materials.
The encounter in Barangay Guihean was part of sustained pursuit operations by the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, led by Brigadier General Siegfried C. Tubalado, after troops engaged communist rebels in Barangay Dumalaguing, Impasug-ong, last August 13. The follow-up operation prevented the fleeing rebels from regrouping, further disrupting their armed struggle.
Ground forces involved included the 8th, 26th, and 88th Infantry Battalions, the 1st Special Forces Battalion, the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, and the 4th Division Reconnaissance Battalion. The joint mission was reinforced by artillery fire from the 4th and 10th Field Artillery Battalions, with close air support from the Philippine Air Force under Tactical Operations Group-10.
The firefight resulted in the death of two CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs)—an unidentified male and female. Soldiers also seized five high-powered firearms, along with subversive documents and other war materiel.
Brigadier General Tubalado lauded the discipline and courage of the troops but reminded them to strictly observe operational safety measures and the rules of engagement during combat. He also assured that the Army is working to retrieve the slain rebels’ remains to extend proper assistance to their families, including burial support.
“Sa atong mga kaigsuonan dinhi sa Bukidnon, amo gyud ipadayon na mahimong malinawon ang atong probinsya. Ug sa atong mga kaigsuonan nga naa pa sa kabukiran, gina imbitar ko kamo nga munaog na. Dili ta mag away kay pareha ra tang Pilipino. Musuporta gyud ang gobyerno sa inyoha. Ang gobyerno andam na musagop ninyo tanan. Naay suporta nga ihatag sa inyong pamilya aron manginabuhi mo ug tarong diri sa ubos,” Tubalado said, assuring that the government is ready to welcome rebels who choose to surrender and reintegrate into society.
For his part, 4ID Commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. underscored that the back-to-back victories prove the relentless pressure being exerted on insurgent remnants in Bukidnon and Northern Mindanao. He vowed that the military will not relent until the decades-long insurgency is decisively ended.
He also highlighted that while combat operations will continue, the government remains committed to reconciliation through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty Programs, which provide livelihood support and safe conduct passes for former rebels.
“We call on the remaining CTG members to choose life, return to their families, and become part of our nation’s progress,” Anayron said.
The latest success, the Army added, reflects both the dedication of soldiers in the field and the trust of communities that continue to support the government’s drive for peace and security in Bukidnon and across Northern Mindanao.