Three alleged members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were killed in an armed encounter with the Philippine Army’s 47th Infantry Battalion (47IB) in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, early Saturday, March 21, 2026. The clash also resulted in the recovery of several high-powered firearms and subversive documents.

The operation took place in Sitio Santol, Barangay Tampalon, as troops conducted security operations following reports of CTG presence in the area. The slain individuals were reportedly remnants of combined forces from the Dismantled South West Front and the Regional Strike Force under Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros.

Details of the Encounter in Kabankalan City

According to initial reports, the firefight lasted approximately two minutes. Following the clash, soldiers recovered the bodies of the three CTG members. Authorities also seized an R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two M203 grenade launchers, one hand grenade, and various documents with alleged subversive content.

The Philippine Army reported no casualties on the government side. The identities of the deceased were later confirmed as Milky alias “Gorting” Sampini, Ritchie alias “Makoy”/“Akiro” Verano, and Joedil alias “Junjun”/“Cairo” Balsimo.

Suspects Linked to Killings and Arson

Military officials stated that the three neutralized individuals were allegedly responsible for a series of violent incidents across Negros Island. These incidents include killings and arson activities targeting civilians. Specifically, the army connected them to the deaths of 74-year-old Leonora N. Anguit and 39-year-old Renante Vedarte y Guadalupe, both residents of Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City.

Authorities claim that the death of the three provides some measure of justice and closure for the families and communities affected by the group’s alleged activities.

Military Lauds Troops and Community Cooperation

The 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) leadership commended the 47IB, operating under the 302nd Infantry Brigade, for their successful operation. Major General Michael G. Samson, Commander of the 3ID, emphasized the importance of the local populace’s vigilance and cooperation. According to MGen. Samson, timely reports from residents significantly contributed to the successful operation.

Government Calls for Surrender

MGen. Samson reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating communist-terrorist elements in the Negros Island Region. He urged remaining CTG members to abandon armed struggle and return to mainstream society. He further stated that the government is ready to assist them through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty Program.

“We call on the remaining members of the CTG to abandon the armed struggle and return to mainstream society to avoid suffering the same misfortune as their comrades,” MGen. Samson said in a statement. “Lay down your arms, come down, and embrace peace.”

Continued Anti-Insurgency Efforts in Negros Island

The operation in Kabankalan City is part of ongoing efforts by the Philippine government to combat insurgency in the Negros Island Region. The military has maintained a strong presence in the area, conducting regular patrols and security operations to address the threat posed by communist insurgents.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been focusing on Negros Island due to the persistent presence of CTG groups and their alleged involvement in various criminal activities, including extortion, arson, and killings. The AFP hopes to encourage remaining CTG members to disarm and reintegrate into mainstream society through continued military pressure and the government’s amnesty programs.

E-CLIP Program Aims to Reintegrate Former Rebels

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is a government initiative designed to facilitate the reintegration of former rebels into society. The program offers various forms of assistance, including financial aid, livelihood training, and access to social services. This program aims to provide former rebels with the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.

The government hopes that E-CLIP will encourage more CTG members to surrender and abandon armed struggle, ultimately leading to lasting peace and stability in the region.

Looking Ahead: Sustained Operations and Community Engagement

The Philippine Army has committed to maintaining sustained operations in the Negros Island Region to prevent the resurgence of communist insurgents. The military also plans to strengthen its engagement with local communities to gain their trust and support in the fight against insurgency. This includes conducting regular dialogues with residents, providing assistance to communities in need, and promoting peace and development initiatives.

Authorities believe that continued collaboration between the military, local government units, and the community is crucial to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region. They hope that these efforts will eventually lead to the complete eradication of communist insurgency in Negros Island.

Photo credit: Photo from Philippine Army