A member of the Philippine Army was killed in an encounter with a rebel group in Tapaz town, Province of Capiz. An alleged member of the rebel group was also reported killed in the skirmish.

Sergeant Jhon Ray Coopera is a member of the 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB), 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID).

The incident happened in Barangay Agpalali, Tapaz on August 25, 2025.

The incident fell on the observance of National Heroes Day. 

Coopera perished after two consecutive encounters with at least ten alleged members of the dismantled Central Front and Regional Sentro de Grabidad, Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay.

In an interview with Colonel Erwin Lamzon, spokesperson of 3ID-Philippine Army, by GMA Super Radyo Iloilo, Coopera was wounded fatally below the chest.

Prior to the incident, state troopers from the 12IB pursued the group it encountered earlier  at the tri-boundary of Barangays Agpalali, Artuz, and Tabon in Tapaz on August 22, 2025. 

In a statement, Major General Michael Samson, 3ID commander, condoled with the family of Coopera.

“We grieve the loss of Sergeant Coopera, a valiant warrior who sacrificed his life to bring peace to the people of Tapaz. His sacrifice will never be forgotten. We honor his memory and offer our deepest condolences to his bereaved family,” Samson said. 

“His heroism will strengthen our unwavering resolve to totally eliminate the remaining CTG remnants and end their terroristic acts. The fight for peace continues, and we will carry Sergeant Coopera's legacy forward with steadfast determination,” Samson added.

Aside from the casualty, Samson disclosed that two soldiers were also hurt in the encounter, while a member of the rebel group died.