CALAPAN CITY – Philippine Army troops clashed with suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day), in Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, shattering holiday calm in the rural area. The encounter followed resident reports of armed individuals gathering, possibly for celebrations tied to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) anniversary.
Soldiers from the 76th Infantry Battalion (under the 2nd Infantry Division) and 5th Scout Ranger Battalion responded, leading to a firefight. The military reported recovering identification cards, personal belongings, medical kits, food supplies, and alleged subversive documents from the site—no soldier casualties initially noted, though one was later reported wounded in related reports.
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) disputed the account, claiming its forces were observing a unilateral ceasefire (Dec 31-Jan 1) and providing medical services to Mangyan communities when attacked. CPP spokesperson Marco Valbuena accused the AFP of heavy gunfire and helicopter support, endangering civilians.
The clash—part of ongoing operations against dwindling NPA remnants—highlights persistent low-level insurgency in Mindoro, despite the group’s weakened state nationwide.
Incident Snapshot:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | January 1, 2026 (morning) |
| Location | Sitio Mamara, Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro |
| Military Units | 76th IB & 5th Scout Rangers |
| Reported Recoveries | IDs, belongings, medical kits, documents |
| Casualties | 1 soldier wounded (per some reports); rebel losses undetermined |
| CPP Claim | Unprovoked attack during ceasefire |