After an intense eight-day search that drew international attention, Filipino-American activist Chantal Anicoche has been found alive by Philippine Army troops in the remote mountains of Occidental Mindoro.
Discovery in the Mountains
Colonel Louie Dema-ala, the Philippine Army spokesperson, confirmed the successful operation in an official statement released on Friday, January 9, 2026. He reported that Anicoche was located on Thursday, January 8, in the vicinity of Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, within the municipality of Abra de Ilog.
The 25-year-old was discovered hiding in a hole near a site where an armed encounter had previously occurred. Following her extraction from the rugged terrain, she was immediately transported to safety and underwent a thorough medical examination to assess her condition.
Background of the Disappearance
Human rights organizations had raised the alarm after Anicoche went missing on January 1, 2026. The disappearance coincided with reported clashes between government security forces and members of the New People's Army (NPA) in the same area.
Anicoche, a recent psychology graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, was in Occidental Mindoro conducting research and volunteer work. Her efforts were focused on supporting Mangyan indigenous communities and local peasant families when contact with her was lost.
Official Reaction and Accusations
In his statement, Colonel Dema-ala framed the rescue as evidence contradicting narratives from communist groups. "The rescue of Anicoche exposes the blatant lies peddled by the communist terrorists and their mouthpieces," he stated.
He further accused the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) of "exploiting and endangering young people" through deceptive recruitment practices, suggesting Anicoche's case was a clear example of this danger.
The conclusion of the search operation brings relief after nearly a week of uncertainty, though it highlights the ongoing tensions and complex humanitarian situation in the region's conflict-affected areas.
