PALIMBANG, Sultan Kudarat (June 21, 2025) — Two wounded individuals believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were successfully apprehended by government forces early Saturday morning, June 21, in Sitio Muagan, Barangay Datu Ito Andong, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.
The apprehended suspects, identified only by their aliases “@Digbay,” 16, and “@Mario,” 17, were both reportedly members of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Daguma of the NPA. The two were casualties from a fierce encounter between government troops and communist rebels in the same area on June 19, which resulted in the death of one soldier from the 37th Infantry Battalion and the confirmed deaths of three high-ranking NPA members.
According to the military, concerned civilians in the area provided the critical information that led to the swift operation carried out by Alpha Company of the 37th Infantry (CONQUEROR) Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Christopherson M. Capuyan. Alongside the arrest, government troops recovered an M16 rifle and three magazines at the scene.
The two minors sustained serious injuries—@Digbay was wounded in the right shin while @Mario sustained a gunshot wound to the back, reportedly affecting his spinal cord. They were initially treated at the Kalamansig Rural Health Unit (RHU) after being transported by a joint team from the military, Kalamansig Municipal Police Station, and local volunteers. Due to the severity of their injuries, both are now set to be transferred to the Camp Siongco Station Hospital for specialized medical care.
Lt. Col. Capuyan praised the cooperation of local residents, emphasizing their key role in the successful operation. “This successful apprehension is a testament to the strong partnership between our military forces, Philippine National Police, and the peace-loving people of Kalamansig,” he said. “We extend our sincerest gratitude to the civilians of Sitio Muagan for their unwavering support and commitment to a safer community.”
He also condemned the continued recruitment of minors by communist insurgents, calling it “alarming” and harmful to the future of the youth. “We are actively working to stop such practices for the sake of our communities,” he added.
Brig. Gen. Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Infantry (PERSUADER) Brigade, echoed the military’s firm stance against insurgency. “We remain resolute in our mission to neutralize and apprehend the remaining members of SRC Daguma and other lawless elements that threaten peace in our area of operations,” he said.
Despite ongoing combat operations, Brig. Gen. Santos reiterated the government’s willingness to accept those who wish to surrender and reintegrate into society. “Our doors remain open for those who choose peace over violence,” he affirmed.
The capture of the two minor combatants marks another step forward in the security efforts in Sultan Kudarat, as military forces continue to pursue lasting peace and stability in the region.