An armed encounter between joint government troops and alleged remnants of Bohol Party Committee (BPC) of the New People’s Army ensued at 6:50 a.m. on February 23, 2024 in Purok 2 (Matin-ao), Barangay Campagao, Bilar town, Bohol.

Multiple warrants of arrest were about to be served against members of the said group who resisted and fired reportedly at the authorities, according to Police Lt. Col. Norman Nuez, spokesperson of the Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO), in a press conference.  

The supposed serving of warrants of arrest was in line with the Joint Enhanced Military Police Operation and Oplan “Hagorn,” BPPO’s counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism campaign plan, Lt. Col. Nuez said. 

Nuez confirmed that two policemen were killed in action.

They were both taken to the Congressman Simeon Toribio Memorial Hospital. One expired in the said hospital, while the other was transferred to the Governor Celestino Gallares Hospital in Tagbilaran City and died there. 

Five members of BPC died in the encounter.

The fatalities were identified as alias Silong, squad leader of the remnants of BPC; alias Aldrin, assistant squad leader and political guide; and squad members - alias Darwin, alias Maya/Lean; and alias Juaning.

As of posting time, Nuez said they have not received reports yet on any hostage-taking or of any civilians hurt in the encounter.

An M16 baby armalite, an R4 M16, an M16, and three caliber .45 pistols were found to be in the possession of the group. 

The firefight lasted reportedly close to three hours.

Affected civilians were evacuated to a safe location and secured by personnel of the Philippine National Police.

All police stations were directed to establish checkpoints at all strategic locations, Nuez further said.

The PNP is on full alert status province-wide.

Police are also monitoring medical clinics and hospitals in the entire province for possible presence of wounded members of the said armed group.