Deadly Encounter in Sultan Kudarat Hinterlands
COTABATO CITY – A soldier and three communist rebels died in a fierce clash in the remote mountains of Kalamansig town, Sultan Kudarat province just before dawn Thursday. Government troops engaged New People’s Army (NPA) fighters in a firefight that lasted over two hours, local sources said.
Lt. Col. Christopherson Capuyan, commander of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion, reported that the military operation began around midnight in Barangay Datu Ito Andong. The soldiers encountered a group of NPA rebels reportedly led by Eusivio Cranzo, alias Agaw, and a figure known as Brix.
Firefight Lasts Over Two Hours
The intense exchange of gunfire continued for more than two hours, ending with the deaths of three communist rebels. Troops recovered three M16 rifles, ammunition, and personal belongings from the fallen insurgents. Unfortunately, one soldier also lost his life during the encounter, Capuyan confirmed.
Brigadier General Michael Santos, who commands the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade responsible for the area, called for an intensified manhunt targeting remaining NPA members along the borders of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato provinces. “We express our deepest sorrow for our fallen comrade who sacrificed his life defending our country and protecting our people,” Santos said.
Respect for Fallen Rebels and Soldiers
Santos added that despite the conflict, the military honors the human rights of those who died, stating, “We give decent burial to our fallen fellow Filipinos who chose the wrong ideology, as a sign of respect for human rights.” Major General Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, also mourned the death of the soldier and ordered heightened military operations against remaining communist forces in the region.
Local officials and military leaders remain committed to securing peace and safety for communities affected by insurgent activities. The operation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat communist rebellion in Mindanao’s rugged terrain.
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