T’BOLI, South Cotabato — A firefight erupted in a remote and forested area of T’boli on Tuesday morning, March 3, 2026, after government troops encountered suspected members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) during a military operation, authorities reported.
According to a report from the local police station in T’boli, a platoon from the 105th Infantry Battalion (SAIFULLAH) was conducting an operation under the leadership of 1Lt. Godpray Española when they came across around ten alleged members of the EXECOM unit of the FSMR, reportedly led by an individual known only by the alias “Magaw.”
The encounter occurred at around 10:05 a.m. in the rugged area between Sitio Lamtaninog in Barangay Kematu and Sitio Turok Bato in Barangay Basag. Soldiers and suspected rebels exchanged gunfire, sending echoes of gunshots across the mountainous terrain.
During the clash, a military guide identified as Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) member Sanio Sad was wounded after being hit on the right side of the head near the ear. Authorities said the victim was immediately provided medical assistance and is now in stable condition.
Following the encounter, security forces launched pursuit operations against the fleeing armed group. Personnel from the 2nd South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company have also been deployed to establish blocking positions in nearby areas to prevent the suspects from escaping and to support ongoing military operations.
Authorities have yet to release information on possible casualties on the side of the suspected CTG members. Meanwhile, the military and police continue to secure the area as part of intensified operations against insurgent groups operating in parts of South Cotabato.
The incident underscores the continuing security challenges in some upland communities in the province, where government forces remain engaged in counter-insurgency efforts.