Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat — April 18, 2025
A suspected member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was killed while an M16 rifle was recovered following a brief encounter between government troops and armed insurgents in Barangay Banali, Senator Ninoy Aquino town, Sultan Kudarat.
According to reports from the 7th Infantry (TAPAT) Battalion, the clash occurred as soldiers were conducting a security patrol in response to persistent reports of planned extortion activities by CTG members. The operation was timed amidst heightened alert during the observance of the Christian Holy Week, when the group was believed to be targeting local farmers, businessmen, and candidates for the 2025 elections.
The troops, led by Lieutenant Colonel Tristan Rey P. Vallescas, encountered around five armed CTG members believed to be remnants of the Sub-Regional Committee Daguma under the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR). A firefight broke out and lasted for about ten minutes, forcing the insurgents to retreat, leaving behind a dead comrade and a high-powered firearm.
“The success of this operation is a testament to the dedication of our troops and the vital support we receive from the community. Working together, we are making significant strides in our efforts to achieve lasting peace in Sultan Kudarat,” LTC Vallescas said in a statement.
Brigadier General Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Infantry (PERSUADER) Brigade, praised the soldiers for their swift and disciplined action, noting that the encounter was a result of intensified military operations designed to secure communities against lawless elements.
“This successful engagement is a direct outcome of our intensified focused military operations. I commend the courage and professionalism of our soldiers in protecting our people and maintaining peace in the area of responsibility,” BGEN Santos said.
Despite the military success, Santos expressed sympathy to the family of the deceased CTG member and renewed the government’s call for the remaining insurgents to abandon the armed struggle and return to civilian life.
“There is no future in the armed struggle. We urge you to return to the fold of the law and choose peace. The government is ready to support your reintegration,” Santos stressed.
He also encouraged residents to continue cooperating with security forces by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that community support is vital in ending local armed conflict.
Meanwhile, military units are coordinating with the Philippine National Police and local officials to arrange the transport of the slain CTG member’s remains back to the family.