An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter in Barangay Caatihan, Boston, Davao Oriental on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

According to the 10th Infantry Division (10ID), residents reported sightings of armed individuals in the area, prompting the government troops to launch an operation.

The alleged rebels encountered by the military were believed to be remnants of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad (RSDG) Jaguar of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).

Major General Allan Hambala, commander of the 10ID, lauded the operating troops and the efforts of the community to prevent the resurgence of the NPA.

“Through the vigilance and quick response of our residents in reporting any untoward activities, we make it harder for insurgent groups to regain ground inside our area of operation. I encourage all Agila Troopers to continue strengthening our partnership with the local government units and the communities we serve,” Hambala said.

The military urged the remaining members of the rebel group to surrender and turn over a new leaf through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Meanwhile, troops of the 6th Infantry Battalion recovered several high-powered firearms after engaging an armed group in an exchange of fire in Barangay Pagatin I, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao del Sur.

Among those confiscated were a caliber .30 sniper rifle, a garand rifle, an RPG, rifle grenades, and ammunition.

"Unang-una, umiiral ang gun ban ngayon. Kaya't malinaw na labag sa batas ang pagdadala ng anumang uri ng sandata. Kaya naman puspusan ang ating pagtugis upang mapanagot sa batas ang mga sangkot," 6th Infantry Division Commander, Major General Donald Gumiran, said.