A couple, allegedly leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA), and their daughter, were among those killed in a renewed clash in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, the military said on Thursday, December 28, 2023.

Government forces killed 10 communist rebels, not nine as reported earlier, in a gun battle on Christmas Day.

The military said the slain NPA combatants belonged to the Sub-Regional Committee-2 (SRC2), Headquarters Loader and Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) Compaq all of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

Lt. Col. Anthony Bacus, commander of the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB), identified the couple as alias “Ayang” and alias "Alab," secretary and deputy secretary of SRC2, respectively, and their daughter as alias “Pao/Chin2”.

The other four fatalities were identified as alias “Pening,” a resident of Purok 8, Kalasungay, Malaybalay City; alias “Ligid” of Sitio Kadagsangan, Bulonay, Impasug-ong town; alias “Alvin,” a resident of Zone 8, Kalasungay, Malaybalay City; and a certain Loue whose residence is in Agusan province.

The military is coordinating with other intelligene communities and former rebels to identify three other bodies.

"It is disheartening to discover how the CNT leaders resorted to promoting own vested interest and agenda using familial connections as means to sustain their business while the lower members are suffering from hunger and fatigue due to our relentless military operations. This exploitation proves that they are irrational criminals who will do everything to maintain their operations, even sacrificing family members,” 4th Infantry Division (4ID) Commander, Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, said.

Nonetheless, we extend our condolences to the families of the deceased, after all they are still Filipinos who became victims of the CTG deception and treachery. Their death is a tragic outcome that reflects the continued challenge we face in maintaining peace and security in our AOR. Moreover, rest assured that the 4ID, in close collaboration with LGU and LGAs, will extend assistance and support to the families of the dead CNTs," he added.