KABANKALAN CITY, Negros Occidental – Three alleged members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were killed in an 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 seizure of several high-powered firearms and subversive documents.
The operation took place around 4:00 a.m. in Sitio Santol, Barangay Tampalon, according to a press release from the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army. Troops were conducting security operations in response to reports of an armed CTG presence in the area.
Security Operations Triggered by Reports of CTG Presence
The 47IB was conducting security operations based on intelligence regarding the presence of CTG remnants operating in Barangay Tampalon. These remnants reportedly belonged to combined elements of the Dismantled South West Front and the Regional Strike Force, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros.
The Philippine Army has been actively pursuing CTG elements in the Negros Island Region, responding to community concerns about insurgent activity and aiming to maintain peace and order. Such security operations are vital in deterring further violence and protecting local communities from potential threats.
Two-Minute Firefight Leaves Three Dead
The encounter between the 47IB troops and the CTG remnants lasted approximately two minutes. The bodies of the three slain CTG members were recovered at the encounter site following the brief but intense firefight.
No casualties were reported on the government side, according to the 3ID. The swift operation and lack of casualties among the government troops highlight the effectiveness of their training and the importance of accurate intelligence gathering.
Rifles and Grenade Launchers Recovered from Encounter Site
Troops recovered a significant cache of weaponry from the encounter site. This included one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, two M203 grenade launchers, and one hand grenade. Various subversive documents were also seized, which may provide valuable intelligence on CTG operations and plans.
The seizure of these firearms significantly degrades the CTG's operational capabilities in the area. The weapons could have been used to carry out further attacks or acts of violence against civilians and government forces.
Slain Rebels Linked to Prior Killings and Arson
The Philippine Army reported that the three CTG members killed in the encounter were allegedly responsible for a series of violent incidents across Negros Island. These incidents include killings and arson activities, instilling fear and unrest within the communities.
Specifically, the 3ID stated that the slain rebels were linked 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. These alleged connections underscore the CTG's involvement in local crime and violence.
Identities of the Deceased Confirmed
Authorities identified the three fatalities as Milky alias “Gorting” Sampini, Ritchie alias “Makoy”/“Akiro” Verano, and Joedil alias “Junjun”/“Cairo” Balsimo. These individuals were reportedly linked to various atrocities perpetrated by the CTG in the Negros Island Region.
Confirming the identities of the slain rebels is crucial for ongoing investigations and for providing closure to the families of victims affected by their alleged crimes. It also aids in tracking the remaining CTG members and dismantling their network.
Military Lauds Vigilance of Local Community
Major General Michael G. Samson, Commander of the 3ID, commended the 47IB for their successful operation, operating under the 302nd Infantry Brigade. He also lauded the vigilance and cooperation of the local populace, emphasizing that timely reports from residents significantly contributed to the neutralization of the CTG members and the recovery of their firearms.
The 3ID emphasized that community involvement is crucial in the fight against insurgency. Residents who provide information about CTG activities play a vital role in helping the military maintain peace and security in the region.
Army Commander Urges Remaining Rebels to Surrender
MGen. Samson reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating communist-terrorist elements in the Negros Island Region. He urged the remaining members of the CTG to abandon the armed struggle and return to mainstream society.
"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 stated. He highlighted the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty Program, which offer opportunities for former rebels to reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.
Government Offers Support for Former Rebels
The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) provides former rebels with financial assistance, livelihood training, and access to education and healthcare. The Amnesty Program offers legal protection and ensures that former rebels are not prosecuted for crimes committed during their involvement in the insurgency.
These programs are designed to encourage CTG members to lay down their arms and embrace a peaceful future. They offer a pathway toward healing, reconciliation, and building a better life for themselves and their families.
Anti-Insurgency Efforts to Continue in Negros Region
The Philippine Army stated that it will continue its anti-insurgency campaign in the Negros Island Region to ensure lasting peace and security. The military will maintain its presence in vulnerable communities and work closely with local residents to prevent the resurgence of communist-terrorist groups.
The sustained efforts of the Philippine Army, combined with the support of the local community, are essential for achieving a stable and prosperous future for the Negros Island Region.
Photo credit: Photo from Philippine Army