A suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed during a firefight with Philippine Army forces in Oriental Mindoro on Friday, according to military officials.

Troops from the Army’s 4th Infantry Battalion were conducting security operations in Sitio Cabuyao, Barangay Panaytayan in Mansalay when they encountered an armed group.

The military said barangay residents had alerted them to alleged extortion activities in the area.

The ensuing 15-minute gun battle ended when the rebels retreated.

No casualties were reported among government forces.

Major General Cerilo Balaoro Jr, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, confirmed that one rebel was killed during the exchange, though the identity has not been disclosed.

Soldiers recovered an M16 rifle at the scene.

Speaking after the incident, Major General Balaoro praised Mansalay residents for their cooperation: “Our collective aspiration for lasting peace, security, and progress in Mindoro is becoming a reality, thanks to the continuous cooperation of our kababayans.”

This follows a similar incident in December when a female NPA member was killed during an encounter in nearby Roxas town, Oriental Mindoro.

The New People’s Army is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has been waging one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies since 1969.