Two Alleged NPA Rebels Killed in Guihulngan Encounter with Army Troops
Two alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with Philippine Army soldiers early Saturday morning, January 31, 2026, in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. The clash occurred at approximately 7:11 AM in the border areas of Sityo Anolo Tulo, Barangay Binobohan, and Sityo Batong-Buang, Barangay Sandayao.
Details of the Firefight and Military Response
The Guihulngan City Police Station received a call from the 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, reporting an ongoing firefight between the 47th Infantry Battalion and suspected members of the Communist Terrorist Group operating in the vicinity. Soldiers encountered an estimated seven NPA rebels in the boundary between Barangay Sandayao and Barangay Binobohan.
The exchange of gunfire lasted for several minutes before the soldiers initiated a clearing operation. During this operation, they discovered the bodies of two male individuals lying in the forested area. The military recovered significant items from the scene, including:
- One M16 Armalite rifle with four magazines
- One caliber .45 pistol
- A hand grenade
- Various subversive documents
Ongoing Identification and Investigation
The bodies of the deceased have been transported to a funeral home in Guihulngan City, where authorities are continuing efforts to identify them. The Guihulngan City Police Station is leading the identification process, which remains ongoing as of the latest reports.
This incident highlights the ongoing security operations in Negros Oriental against insurgent groups. The Philippine Army has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and order in the region, urging the public to report any suspicious activities to prevent further violence.
