An alleged high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a firefight in La Paz, Agusan del Sur on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB) were conducting intelligence-driven operations targeting communist rebels along the Agusan del Sur-Bukidnon boundary when they reportedly encountered a squad of the NPA’s Headquarters Force (HQF), NEO, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in an exchange of fire in Sitio Tacocon, Baragay Kasapa, La Paz town.

8ID said the clash site was identified as a movement corridor of NPA combatants.

Government forces pursued the rebels toward the northeast, which resulted in the killing of the high-ranking NPA leader and a confiscation of an M653 rifle.

The slain rebel was identified as alias “Tado,” commanding officer of the Regional Operational Command, NCMRC, as confirmed by former rebels.

8IB said the sustained offensive operations continue to dismantle remaining insurgents and deny the NPA freedom of movement in Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon.

8IB commander, Lt. Col. Jeorge Jallorina, said they remain committed and ready to end insurgency in Bukidnon within the timeline directed by higher headquarters.