THREE New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and a soldier were killed in a more than one-hour clash in the hinterlands of Sultan Kudarat, military officials said Friday, June 20, 2025.
Lieutenant Colonel Christoperson Capuyan, commander of the 37th Infantry Battalion (37IB), said the firefight broke out around 12 a.m. Thursday, June 19, in Datu Ito Andong, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.
Capuyan said troops encountered a group of NPA rebels led by Eusivio Cranzo, also known by the aliases Agaw and Brix.
“The exchange of fire lasted for more than an hour, resulting in the deaths of three enemies of the state who are facing various criminal cases,” Capuyan said.
The rebels were facing cases of murder, frustrated murder, and three counts of attempted murder.
Troops recovered three M-16 rifles, magazines, ammunition, and personal belongings of the slain rebels at the clash site.
The identity of the slain soldier was withheld pending family notification.
Brigadier General Michael Santos, 603rd Infantry Brigade commander, ordered intensified pursuit operations against Cranzo’s remaining followers to maintain peace and security in the province.
“We sympathize with the family of our heroic soldier who sacrificed his life for the peace and security of our countrymen,” said Santos.
“As fellow Filipinos, we will give the fallen rebels a decent burial as a sign of our respect for human rights, despite their misguided ways,” he added.
Major General Donald Gumiran, 6th Infantry Division commander, also expressed sadness over the incident.
“We deeply regret this incident. Although from different sides, both Filipinos were killed and are sacrificing their lives. We call on the remaining members of the armed movement—lay down your weapons and join the peace movement. Our government is open to those who want to change their lives,” he said. (SunStar Zamboanga)