By Alexander Lopez

SLAIN REBELS. The bodies of the two NPA rebels and the weapons seized from the encounter site in the interiors of Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur on Sunday (March 22, 2026). Villagers tipped off the military about the rebels’ presence, which led to an encounter. (Photo courtesy of 401st IBde)

BUTUAN CITY – Two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in an encounter that occurred on Sunday afternoon in the periphery of Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, the military here said.

“Troops from the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) were conducting a security operation in the area when the encounter happened,” the 401st Infantry Brigade (401st IBde) said in a statement on Monday.

The operation was launched after residents reported the presence of NPA rebels in the area, particularly the remnants of Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Westland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Following the firefight, the NPA rebels abandoned their position, leaving behind their two dead comrades, who were later identified as Ka Rex and Ka Bunso.

The 36IB troopers also recovered four high-powered firearms from the encounter site.

“After the clash, troops immediately secured the area to ensure the safety of nearby communities and prevent further threats,” Col. Glenn Joy Aynera, the 401st IBde commander, said in the same statement.

Pursuit operations are ongoing to track down the NPA remnants who are on the run following the encounter. (PNA)