Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Residential Fires March, 2026

This is a reported list of residential fires in the Philippines for March, 2026. The Bureau of Fire Protection is on record saying the fire codes does not apply to residential areas which is why so many of them go up in flames during a fire. Being made of light materials all it takes is one spark to cause massive devastation. 

A total of 23 families were affected after a fire tore through a row of closely built homes along Obrero Street in Barangay 898, Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila, on Sunday evening, March 1, leaving at least 10 houses destroyed and 13 others partially damaged, based on initial assessment.

The fire started at around 5:53 p.m. and quickly spread across adjacent structures due to their proximity, prompting residents to rush out of their homes and alert authorities as thick smoke filled the area.

Fire responders raised the alarm to the first alarm at 5:59 p.m., followed by the second alarm at 6:02 p.m., and eventually escalated it to the third alarm at 6:16 p.m. as additional manpower and fire trucks were deployed to contain the blaze.

The fire was declared under control and officially put out at around 6:54 p.m., less than two hours after it began.

In response, the Manila Department of Social Welfare immediately conducted an assessment and validation through its District Welfare Office VI and provided hot meals, material assistance, and hygiene kits to affected families to help them recover from the incident.

The agency said it remains committed to delivering immediate relief and continued support to families affected by disasters in the city.

Residents were forced to evacuate at the height of the fire, while authorities advised motorists to avoid the affected stretch of Obrero Street to allow emergency vehicles and firefighters unhampered access.

As of this writing, authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, and the investigation is ongoing as part of intensified efforts in line with Fire Prevention Month observance.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/06/fire-razes-houses-in-taguig

A fire destroyed houses and affected about 16 families in Barangay Central Bicutan, Taguig on March 5. 

The Taguig City Fire Station reported that the blaze started from the second floor of a two-storey house on Bonifacio Street in Central Bicutan at about 9:14 a.m. 

Firefighters raised the first alarm at 9:19 a.m. before the blaze was put under control at 9:58 a.m. and put out at 10:15 a.m. 

Nine houses were affected by the fire with damages amounting to P225,000. 

The fire affected 16 families or 64 individuals, the fire station said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

Barangay Central Bicutan said Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano visited the area and met with the affected families. 

A total of 11 fire trucks, 13 volunteers and three ambulances responded to the incident. 


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/06/over-100-families-affected-in-tondo-residential-blaze

A total of 349 families reportedly lost their homes in a huge fire that hit a residential area in Gate 10, Parola Compound, Tondo, Manila, early Friday morning, March 6.

According to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the fire started at around 1:18 a.m. and quickly reached the second alarm at 1:24 a.m., the third alarm at 1:31 a.m., and the fourth alarm at 1:59 a.m.

The fire was declared out at around 5:46 a.m.

Firefighters said the blaze quickly spread to other houses, as most of the structures in the area were built from light materials.

Officials from Barangay 20 said the fire caused P800,000 worth of damages.

No one was reported hurt in the blaze.

Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/05/fire-hits-residential-area-in-pandacan

A fire broke out in a residential area along Sampaguita Street, Kahilom I, Barangay 871 in Pandacan, Manila late Thursday night, March 5, prompting the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to raise the alarm to second alarm.

Initial reports said the blaze started in the densely populated community, forcing residents to evacuate their homes as firefighters rushed to the scene to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby houses.

According to the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRM), the fire was first raised to first alarm at 10:28 p.m. before escalating to second alarm at 10:35 p.m.

Firefighters were able to place the blaze under control at around 11 p.m. and later declared fire out at 11:06 p.m.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, as well as the number of families affected and the estimated damage to property, as of posting time.

An investigation is ongoing.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/05/29-houses-razed-in-bacolod-fire

Twenty-nine houses were destroyed in a fire in Barangay 2 here on Thursday, March 5.

Fire Supt. Jenny Mae Masip, city fire marshal, said that 20 houses were totally and nine were partially damaged.

The fire broke out at 1:15 p.m. and quickly spread as most houses were made of light materials and situated side by side.

The fire that reached the second alarm allegedly started from a child reportedly playing with a lighter and candle at home.

Fire out was declared at 1:26 p.m. No injuries were reported. Damage to property was pegged at P296,250.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/07/4000-families-affected-by-massive-fire-in-qc-residential-area

Around 4,000 families were displaced after a massive fire struck a residential area along NIA Road in Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City on Friday night, March 6.

Barangay officials said the blaze escalated to Task Force Bravo as firefighters continued efforts to contain the flames. At least 100 fire trucks responded to the incident.

Residents were evacuated to designated evacuation centers, including Pinyahan Elementary School, where displaced families are temporarily staying.

In response to the incident, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office NCR, through its Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD), conducted field monitoring and an initial assessment of the situation on Saturday, March 7.

The activity was carried out in coordination with the Quezon City Social Services Development Department (SSDD) to ensure an accurate assessment of the needs of the affected families.

Authorities said validation and further assessment are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage and the appropriate assistance required.

The Quezon City government, in partnership with DSWD-NCR, said it is preparing the necessary interventions and assistance for displaced families.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, the fire was first raised to the first alarm at 9:01 p.m., followed by the second alarm at 9:03 p.m.

It escalated to the third alarm at 9:12 p.m., the fourth alarm at 9:22 p.m., and the fifth alarm at 9:44 p.m., before reaching Task Force Alpha at around 10:50 p.m.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/07/fire-destroys-52-homes-in-cebu-city

Fifty-two homes were destroyed on Saturday, March 7, in the fifth fire that hit this city during Fire Prevention Month.

Two persons were injured in the fire that broke out at 2:04 p.m. in Barangay Kasambagan, said Senior Fire Office 3 Wendell Villanueva, information officer of the Cebu City Fire Station.

The fire was raised to fourth alarm before it was contained at 3:23 p.m. Fire out was declared at 4:31 p.m., Villanueva said. 

Damage to property was estimated at P3.9 million.

Villanueva said that the fire started in a house owned by one Romeo Sayson and quickly spread.

Villanueva said the cause of fire is being investigated.

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2192536/11-houses-destroyed-in-cavite-fire

A fire of undetermined origin destroyed 11 houses in General Trias City, Cavite, on Sunday.

Police Regional Office 4A reported Monday that the blaze broke out around 10:30 a.m. in Barangay San Gabriel.

It quickly spread to homes, most of which were made of light materials, before firefighters contained it at 12:26 p.m.

No injuries were reported, but 19 families, or 69 individuals, were left homeless. They are currently receiving temporary assistance from local social welfare workers.

Authorities estimated the total property damage at P400,000. Investigators continue to probe the cause of the fire.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2194174/old-woman-dies-trying-to-save-church-funds-from-burning-house

A 75-year-old woman and member of a church choir was killed when a fire destroyed four houses in her family’s compound in Poblacion on Tuesday.

SFO1 Jennifer Salamat, administration chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Paombong town, said Josephine Pineda, the lone fatality, died after returning to the burning house to secure church collection money she was assigned to keep.

Pineda’s house was one of four in the compound razed to the ground by the fire, which raged for more than 30 minutes after breaking out past 10 a.m.

Cristina Bagtas, the victim’s niece, told the Inquirer that Pineda had already exited the house when she ran back to retrieve the church funds. She did not come out. “She could have been suffocated or hit by falling debris,” Bagtas said.

Pineda was a member of the Marian Choir in the parish of Santiago Apostol.

According to Bagtas, her 19-year-old cousin, who was with Pineda, tried to stop her from rushing back but she would not listen. The cousin also attempted to rescue her but was frightened by the engulfing fire.

Salamat said the BFP received the report at 10:43 a.m. and declared the fire out at 11 a.m. She added that the houses were quickly destroyed because they were made of light materials.

She denied reports that fire trucks lacked sufficient water, explaining that the compound had a very small opening, which made it difficult to access the areas engulfed by fire.

“There was a very small opening, the size of a man. It was difficult for us to penetrate,” Salamat said.

Bagtas lamented that hoses could have been used to reach the compound through the fence to help stop the fire.

“Our whole family is very saddened. It was supposed to be fire prevention month, but it happened to our aunt. Her whole body, except for her legs, was charred,” she said.

Salamat added that they exhausted all means to stop the fire and prevent it from spreading to the nearby municipal disaster risk reduction office, Rural Health Unit, and the fire station. Fire trucks from the cities of Malolos and Hagonoy and from the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office arrived to help contain the blaze.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but reports suggest it may have started from a small backyard fire in a neighboring property.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/15/2-pwds-killed-in-ormoc-city-fire

Two Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) were killed in a fire that gutted their house on Saturday, March 14, in Barangay Linao, Ormoc City, Leyte.

The victims were identified as Lino, a 90-year-old widower, and Jojo, 48.

The fire that reached the first alarm started 5 p.m. and contained at 5:11 p.m.

Investigation showed that the fire started in the kitchen and quickly spread in the house made of light materials.

The victims were unable to escape because they could not walk and were trapped under the debris.

Damage to property was P8,750. Cause of the fire was unattended cooking.

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/15/back-to-back-fires-damage-buses-houses-in-rizal

Two separate fire incidents occurred on Sunday, March 15, damaging several vehicles, including buses parked in a garage in Antipolo City, and around 40 houses in Cainta, Rizal.

In Antipolo, a vehicular fire broke out in a garage along Sumulong Highway in Barangay Mayamot at around 1:08 p.m. The fire was raised to first alarm and was quickly extinguished by 1:34 p.m.

Seven vehicles, including five buses and two taxis, parked in the garage, were reportedly damaged in the fire. According to the Marikina Filipino-Chinese Fire Brigade Volunteers who responded to the scene, some of the affected buses were intended for Bicol-bound trips.

No injuries were reported in the incident. The investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Cainta Mayor Keith Nieto said that around 40 houses were gutted by a fire that broke out in a residential area along the boundary of Filinvest Eastville in Antipolo and Barangay San Isidro in Cainta.

The mayor said that the affected houses were made of light materials.

He immediately ordered the Municipal Assistance Team (MAT) office to take charge of addressing the immediate needs of the affected families.

The fire started at around 3:28 p.m. and was raised to the second alarm at 3:55 p.m. It was declared under control at 4:35 p.m.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/707112/night-fire-hurts-3-minors-in-brgy-apas-cebu-city

Three minors were injured in a fire that broke out at a residential area in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Apas late Tuesday evening, March 17.

Authorities said the fire started at around 11:43 p.m. It affected two houses made of light materials, destroying one and partially damaging another.

The injured, aged 17, 15, and 14, sustained minor burns in different parts of their bodies.

Fire Officer 3 Wendel Villanueva, information officer of the Cebu City Fire Station, said had likely gone to sleep when the fire occurred.

In a statement, Apas Barangay Captain Virgil Cabigon said personnel led the two affected families, composed of six individuals, to temporary shelter at the barangay hall following the incident.

He said the Apas Emergency Response Team (AERT) immediately assisted the three minors, bringing them to the barangay health center for treatment.

Cabigon added that they gave the children proper medication, including prescribed antibiotics.

The also provided the affected families with immediate assistance such as food, drinking water, clothing, and blankets.

He said the barangay currently seeks support from donors, particularly for construction materials to help the families rebuild their homes.

Cabigon said initial information from the affected family pointed to a candle as the possible cause of the fire.

However, he said this is still subject to verification by the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO).

According to the report from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Cebu City, the fire was declared under control at around midnight and was extinguished at approximately 12:10 a.m.

Authorities said the fire affected an area of 16 square meters. They estimated damage to property at around ₱24,000.

As of Wednesday, March 18, authorities still investigate the exact cause of the fire and the circumstances that led to the incident.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2199091/fire-hits-iloilo-city-residential-area

Fire broke out in Barangay Gustilo, La Paz on Thursday and damaged 18 houses damaged according to the Iloilo City Emergency Operations Center.

The fire started at around 2:11 p.m. and quickly spread across a cluster of homes, initially affecting 17 residential structures.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) raised the alarm to second level a minute later at 2:12 p.m., before placing the situation under control by 2:30 p.m. The fire was declared out at 2:53 p.m.

Authorities said the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

A total of 18 houses were eventually recorded as affected, including 13 that were destroyed and five damaged. The incident affected 19 families or 77 individuals.

Of those affected, 49 individuals from 13 families are currently staying at an evacuation center set up at the barangay hall, based on data validated by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) as of March 20.

No injuries or fatalities were reported, the BFP confirmed.

Multiple response units were mobilized during the incident, including personnel from the Iloilo City Police Office, fire volunteers, emergency medical teams, and disaster response groups.

City authorities said coordinated efforts were immediately carried out, including continuous monitoring, validation of affected households, and dissemination of information to concerned agencies and the public.

Relief assistance has also been extended to affected families.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/22/fire-hits-residential-area-in-qc

A fire broke out in a residential area in Pook Palaris, Barangay UP campus, Quezon City, on Sunday morning, March 22. 

According to Txt fire Philippines, the fire was raised to 1st alarm at 8:07 a.m. and escalated to 2nd alarm at 8:15 a.m. 

The blaze was declared under control at 8:52 a.m. and was extinguished at 9:22 am. 

According to the initial report, a total 30 families were affected by the fire. 

No injuries were reported. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/709098/tisa-fire-destroys-20-homes-displaces-dozens

Dozens of families found themselves displaced after a fire struck a residential area in Sitio Filtro, Barangay Tisa, Cebu City on Monday morning, March 23.

The blaze destroyed at least 20 homes and prompted evacuation.

Initial reports from the Cebu City Fire Station indicated the fire broke out around 11:38 a.m. and escalated to second alarm.

Responders reached the scene within three minutes, deploying at least 11 fire trucks, four ambulances, and 15 auxiliary units.

Of the 20 affected houses, 15 were totally burnt. Five sustained partial damage.

Firefighters declared the fire under control around 12:30 p.m. and fully extinguished it by 3:40 p.m. They estimated the damage at ₱861,000.

Fire authorities are conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Officials recorded no fatalities but the incident hurt two persons.

Authorities identified them as a 75-year-old woman who sustained a tear on the head and a 58-year-old woman who suffered a scraped knee and experienced difficulty breathing. Medical responders treated both of them onsite.

In an interview with CDN Digital, Barangay Captain Bernardo “Ada” Lapiña Jr. said most injuries resulted followed some persons’ attempts to help extinguish the fire and save their belongings.

Initial data from fire authorities showed that the fire affected around 25 families, or about 75 individuals.

However, Lapiña said the number may be higher, with around 90 families already submitting intake forms as of this writing, amid ongoing data gathering.

Authorities, he added, moved affected families to Tisa National High School beside the barangay hall, which presently serves as an evacuation center.

The Cebu City Department of Social Welfare and Services has begun distributing intake forms to affected families as part of ongoing relief efforts.

Lapiña said priority needs include food and sleeping materials such as blankets and mats.

He added that some individuals have already reached out to ask where they may drop off relief goods for affected residents.

Lapiña said the barangay council will convene a special session to declare a state of calamity. This would allow the release of emergency funds for affected residents.

He added that local officials also look into reblocking in the area as part of recovery efforts.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/25/fire-razes-30-houses-in-taguig

Fire razed 30 houses, affecting 46 families in Barangay Western, Taguig on March 24. 

The Taguig City Fire Station reported that the blaze started at about 7:23 p.m. from a house in the National Housing Authority Garage, Sampaguita Street in the barangay. 

Firefighters raised the first alarm at 7:25 p.m., second alarm at 7:34 p.m. and the third alarm at 7:44 p.m. The fire was put under control at 8:36 p.m. before it was put out at 8:55 p.m. 

The fire station added that the fire destroyed P1 million worth of properties and affected 120 individuals. The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

A total of 14 fire trucks, a rescue truck, 39 volunteers and three ambulances responded to the incident. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/24/septuagenarian-killed-in-nueva-vizcaya-fire

A 74-year-old man died in a fire that razed his home in Sitio Mekdew, Barangay Pinayag, Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya on Sunday, March 22.

Police said the victim was a Person with Disability (PWD).

His wife, also a senior citizen, survived the fire.

Police received the report about the fire on March 23 due to the remote location of the area.

The victims’ house is approximately one hour and 30 minutes by land from the town proper of Kayapa, followed by an additional one-hour walk.

Initial investigation said that the fire started in the couple’s kitchen, near the victim’s sleeping area, at around 11 p.m.

She was able to accompany her husband out of their burning house. She returned inside to retrieve some belongings but did not notice her husband reentering the house. He was trapped and killed.

No immediate assistance was provided as neighboring houses were located far from their residence.

She had to wait until morning before walking for about 30 minutes to her child’s home to reveal the fire.

The house constructed from light materials was completely destroyed.

Authorities reminded the public to exercise caution when cooking indoors, particularly when using firewood or dry grass (kugon), to prevent similar incidents.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/25/pasay-fire-razes-20-houses-displaces-120-residents

A fire razed around 20 houses and left approximately 120 residents homeless in Pasay City on Wednesday, March 25.

According to the Pasay Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze hit a residential area along David Street in Barangay 23 at around 4:00 p.m. It was raised to second alarm at 4:20 p.m.

The BFP reported that a 30-year-old man sustained a laceration on his right palm.

A total of 34 firetrucks responded to the incident and managed to place the fire under control by 4:52 p.m. It was declared out at around 5:30 p.m.

Authorities said the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Initial estimates placed the damage at P50,000.

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano immediately ordered the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) to provide food packs and other essential assistance to the affected families.

The displaced residents are temporarily sheltered at a nearby school covered court.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/710185/bedridden-woman-killed-in-talisay-cebu-fire

A 71-year-old bedridden woman died after she was trapped inside her home when a fire broke out in Sitio Alegre, Barangay Bulacao, Talisay City on Thursday, March 26.

The victim was identified as Rebecca Bacalan, who was unable to escape as the fire quickly spread and blocked the only exit of their house.

Fire Officer 1 Jerome Dolauta, fire investigator of Talisay City Fire Office, said the victim was bedridden and could not evacuate on her own.

He said the fire started near the central portion of the area, which served as the main passageway for residents trying to get out.

“Where their house was located  had no way out. The only path to escape was through the middle area, but that was exactly where the fire started."

Another family member attempted to rescue the victim but was forced to retreat as flames intensified and blocked access, making it too dangerous to carry her out.

Authorities said the alarm was received at 11:11 a.m., prompting an immediate response from firefighters.

The fire was initially declared under first alarm upon arrival, before escalating to second alarm at 11:20 a.m. and third alarm at 11:36 a.m.

Firefighters declared the situation under control at 11:52 a.m., and the fire was officially put out at 12:02 p.m.

Firefighters from the Bureau of Fire Protection, along with two ambulance teams and seven auxiliary responders, were deployed to contain the blaze.

According to Dolauta, initial estimates from the fire office showed that around 20 to 30 houses were affected by the fire, which spread across an estimated 1,800 square meters. Damage to property was initially pegged at around ₱450,000.

He added that they are still awaiting validation from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Talisay City on the total number of affected families and individuals.

Initial information gathered from residents indicated that the fire may have started from an abandoned house in the area, which was reportedly still being visited occasionally by its owner.

Neighbors also claimed that electricity in the structure was left running continuously.

However, Dolauta said the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

As of this writing, authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/26/22-homes-destroyed-in-cadiz-city-fire

Twenty-two houses were destroyed in a fire that hit a slum area in Barangay Zone 4, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental on Wednesday, March 25.

Fire Officer 2 April Shayne Ausan, chief arson investigator of the Cadiz City Fire Station, said they received a fire call at 6:55 a.m.

The destroyed homes were made from mixed concrete and light materials and situated close to each other near a coastline.

Ausan said that 31 families were displaced by the blaze, who are temporarily staying at the barangay covered court.

Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of fire which affected 700-square meters in the area.

Fireout was declared at 8:01 a.m. No injuries were reported. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Cadiz has yet to determine damage to property.

Ausan said this is the second fire that hit the barangay, the first in 2016.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/27/fire-affects-43-families-in-taguig

A residential fire affected 43 families in Barangay Cembo, Taguig on March 26. 

The Taguig City Fire Station reported that the fire started at about 11:41 p.m. from a house owned by a 70-year-old man on Taguile Street in the barangay. 

Firefighters raised the first alarm at 11:48 p.m. followed by a second alarm at 11:54 p.m. The blaze was put out at 2:04 a.m. on March 27. 

The fire razed five houses, destroyed properties worth P9 million and affected 120 individuals. 

A family affected by the fire is seeking financial assistance from the public. 

“My family and I are reaching out to you po. We recently experienced a fire incident on Tanguile Street Barangay Cembo. We humbly ask for any assistance you can provide, anything at all would mean a lot to us,” posted Maria Angelicka Oliva on Facebook. 

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. 

A total of 11 fire trucks, a rescue truck, 44 volunteers and local government units, and six ambulances responded to the incident. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/711345/breaking-twin-fires-hit-cebu-city-on-march-30

Two separate fires broke out in different parts of Cebu City on Monday afternoon, March 30, 2026.

As of this writing, firefighters and emergency responders are currently at the scene to manage both situations.

The first incident involved a residential fire in Sitio Bagumbayan, Barangay Tinago. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Cebu City, the blaze was raised to first alarm as of 2:49 p.m., with firefighting units dispatched to contain the flames.

Just minutes later, a second fire — a rubbish fire — was reported near a mall in the Jai-Alai area of Barangay Mambaling at around 2:51 p.m., according to the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO).

Authorities said responders were already on-site to manage both incidents as of posting time.

Further details, including the extent of damage and possible casualties, remain under verification.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/30/sexagenarian-killed-in-san-pablo-city-fire

A 62-year-old man was killed in a fire in Barangay II-C here on Sunday afternoon, March 29.

The victim was identified as Roland. Three neighbors were injured.

Investigation said the fire started at 1:10 p.m. Firemen put out the fire after two hours.

Damage to property and cause the fire are yet to be determined.

That is 25 reported incidents for March. Remember, these are only the major fires reported in the national media. Residential fires are up all across the nation and they do not all make the news. This is the tip of the iceberg concerning the real situation in the Philippines. 

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Insurgency: Holy Week Peace Drive

 Another region has been declared insurgency free. This time it is the Cagayan Valley. 


https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/25/council-declares-region-2-insurgency-free

Cagayan Valley was formally declared insurgency-free during a meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) at the provincial capitol here on Tuesday, March 24.

The RPOC led by chairperson and Cagayan Gov. Edgar B. Aglipay approved a resolution affirming the declaration which was called a major milestone in the government’s campaign to end local communist armed conflict.

Aglipay said the region is now under a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS), signifying sustained peace, improved security conditions, and strengthened governance across all provinces in Cagayan Valley.

The governor emphasized that the declaration is the result of unified and sustained efforts among government agencies, security forces, local government units, and communities under the whole-of-nation approach.

“This declaration is the result of the collective action of various sectors—from the government, the police, and the military, to local governments and citizens—to finally put an end to the threat of insurgency in our region,” Aglipay said.

He recognized the dedication and sacrifices of the security sector, noting that their continued vigilance and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining peace and protecting communities from threats posed by communist terrorist groups.

The RPOC said the declaration indicates the absence of active armed threats in affected areas. The SSIPS status affirms that peace in the region is not merely temporary but is being sustained through effective governance, ongoing development initiatives, and active public participation.

Aglipay said that the RPOC will intensify collaboration among member-agencies to ensure the effective implementation of strategies aimed at addressing other forms of criminality and sustaining long-term peace and development in Cagayan Valley. 

"The declaration indicates the absence of active armed threats in affected areas." Interesting. Note that it does not mean the absence of actual NPA combatants. 

In Negros three top NPA remnants fell in a recent clash. The Army says that is justice for their victims. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271587

The death of three ranking New People's Army (NPA) remnants in Negros Island has brought justice to the victims of summary executions in southern Negros, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) declared on Monday.

“Justice has prevailed with the neutralization of these ranking remnants who were behind the brutal killings of civilians in Negros," 3ID commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson said in a statement.

Part of the NPA's Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros dismantled Southwest Front and Regional Striking Force (RSF), they died in a firefight with troops of the 47th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City, on March 21.

RSF vice commander Ritchell "Ka Makoy," 26, was a resident of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, who was deployed to the Southwest Front in 2025.

Milky “Ka Gorting” Sampini, 29, RSF finance and logistics officer, of Lamugong, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, was a red fighter since 2016.

Joedil “Ka Cairo" Balsimo, 21, of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, was a squad leader of RSF, who joined the NPA in southern Negros in 2023.

Their remains were brought to the Sola Gracia Funeral Homes in Kabankalan City for documentation and coordination with their respective families, the 3ID report said.

The three NPA remnants were identified by the 302nd Infantry Brigade as among the perpetrators in the series of civilian killings in Negros Island.

One of the victims, Leonora Anguit, 74, who was tagged as a military informant, was executed by rebels near her home in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, on Feb. 3 this year, an act admitted by the NPA in a statement.  

According to reports, the house of Anguit was occupied by the seven NPA remnants who were killed in a clash with soldiers in April last year.

After the encounter in Sitio Santol over the weekend, the 47IB troops recovered five high-powered firearms – one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles, and two M203 grenade launchers – as well as a hand grenade, personal items, and subversive documents. 

If death is justice then what is amnesty??

In Suirgao Sur a clash left two NPA rebels dead. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271526

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.

But there were other rebels besides the two dead. How many were there? The article does not say. Over all operations during March in Surigao Sur have depleted the NPA.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271938

A series of military operations this month dealt major setbacks to the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Caraga Region, particularly in Surigao del Sur, with government forces recovering 14 high-powered firearms, ammunition and other war materials.

This month’s ongoing operations also led to the deaths of two NPA rebels and the surrender of two others.

“This is the result of the combined efforts of the military, local government units and civilians in our communities through the effective implementation of the whole-of-nation approach,” Capt. Melvin Dela Calzada, operations officer of the Philippine Army’s 4th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said Friday.

He said Army battalions in Caraga have built strong ties with communities, including civilians who once supported the rebel movement.

“The issues once used by the NPA in recruiting civilians and influencing our communities have been addressed by the government through the whole-of-nation approach,” Dela Calzada said.

He added that through civil-military operations, the Army has identified community concerns and referred them to government agencies and local governments for immediate action.

“The NPA rebels could no longer exploit the issues and concerns since these are already addressed by the government,” he said.

On March 24, the 36th Infantry Battalion (IB) under the 401st Infantry Brigade recovered three high-powered firearms in Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. The cache included a Czech VZ rifle and two Carbine rifles.

On March 22, two NPA rebels were killed in a clash with government troopers in Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. Four high-powered firearms and ammunition were recovered after the encounter, which stemmed from reports of rebels conducting extortion activities.

On March 21, two NPA rebels surrendered to the 36IB headquarters, bringing with them two high-powered firearms.

Also, on March 13, troops from the 30IB uncovered four high-powered firearms in Barangay Carromata, San Miguel, comprising three M16A1 rifles, one M4 rifle and 173 rounds of assorted ammunition.

Two days earlier, 30IB troopers also recovered an R4 rifle with ammunition in Barangay Carromata.

Meanwhile, the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) in Butuan City said that as of March 26, a total of 155 former rebels from Agusan del Norte have been issued safe conduct passes (SCPs).

To date, the LAB-Butuan has received 556 SCP applications, including 232 filed this year, with 169 still being processed.

That is only four rebels neutralized in the area. How many remain?

The NTF-ELCAC is engaging with academe concerning NPA recruitment. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1270991

A ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Friday said the body will continue engaging with universities and the academe to inform and educate students on the realities of insurgency and recruitment of young people.

"The NTF-ELCAC will never tire in engaging academic institutions with respect and openness, even as passionate students misconstrue or even intentionally misrepresent our intentions. Our shared objective is to ensure that Filipino youth are equipped with truth, critical thinking, and opportunity, not drawn into conflicts that only prolong suffering and division," said Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., NTF-ELCAC executive director.

This is needed as the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed wing New People’s Army (NPA) and national democratic organizations have invested significant effort in organizing and recruiting within major universities and schools across the country, the NTF-ELCAC official stressed.

"This is not a claim invented out of thin air, as it is a historical reality acknowledged by former members, even by the movement itself. It is not the fault or failing of these schools that a few of their students started as well-intentioned activists later became armed insurgents," he added.

Torres said many former rebels, who now work in peace-building, recounted how their political journeys began inside campuses where narratives romanticized armed struggle while downplaying its human cost.

Likewise, the NTF-ELCAC official called on universities across the country to raise the level of discourse on insurgency, youth recruitment, and academic freedom, stressing that honest and responsible debate — not propaganda or slogans — must guide discussions in campuses if the nation is to achieve just peace and genuine nation-building.

Torres made this request after noting that recent social media debates triggered by a forum held last year at the University of Santo Tomas highlighted the continuing tension between academic freedom and the need to openly confront the realities of insurgency and the recruitment of young people into armed struggle.

“Universities have always been spaces where ideas collide. Here, convictions are tested and difficult national questions are debated. Our aim should always be to elevate discourse in ways that promote peace and academic freedom while steering conversations away from propaganda and toward just peace and nation-building,” he said.

He also added that individuals who speak about insurgency and youth recruitment —particularly former rebels and scholars with firsthand knowledge — should not automatically be dismissed as enemies of academic freedom.

“Many of those who speak candidly about these matters do so precisely because they have witnessed how young lives can be drawn into cycles of violence through ideological manipulation or what can be described as terror grooming,” he said.

Torres also added that professors and resource persons who raise these concerns deserve to be heard even when their views are strongly contested.

“Passionate debates are part of university life. But the manner in which we engage each other—whether with respect or dismissal—ultimately determines whether dialogue enlightens or divides," he added.

So, the NPA is strategically defeated, the amnesty program is a big blow to them, remaining rebels are beginning to see the light and surrender, yet the NPA is still able to recruit? How is this possible? 

The NTF-ELCAC is also seeking to insert its propaganda into Holy Week sermons. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271638

The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is urging churches, civil society groups, and government agencies to promote peace, reconciliation, and unity as the country observes Holy Week.

Speaking on the sidelines of a two-day major island action planning workshop for Northern and Central Luzon on Tuesday, NTF-ELCAC Strategic Communications head Rodrigo Lutao said the call for peace is rooted in both faith and national development.

"The true cost of violence is borne not on battlefields alone, but in homes, schools, markets, and places of worship – where innocent people simply seek to live in peace. Holy Week calls us to reflect on suffering, but also on the hope that suffering can lead to renewal," Lutao said.

He said NTF-ELCAC continues to push its peace advocacy, especially during Holy Week, a period of reflection for Filipinos.

Lutao added that biblical teachings underscore respect for authority and unity.

"The Bible verses are very significant in shaping our understanding of peace and security in the Philippines, especially today," he said.

He emphasized that the task force, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., remains committed to promoting peace and security nationwide, noting that stability is key to economic progress.

"For many years, our nation has endured the painful consequences of violence and terrorism. It is often our ordinary citizens who have paid the heaviest price – families torn apart, communities displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and innocent lives lost. Mothers and fathers have buried their children. Children have grown up amid fear and uncertainty. Entire communities have struggled to rebuild after the devastation left by acts of terror. On this solemn day, we remember these suffering communities," Lutao said.

He added that nation-building requires unity, cooperation, and respect for institutions that uphold the rule of law, calling on Filipinos to work together in addressing the root causes of violence.

"For peace is not merely the absence of conflict – it is the presence of justice, compassion, and solidarity," Lutao said.

In a message to participants, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the government’s approach to peace and order has evolved from the 1980s, when efforts were largely focused on security operations and psychological operations.

"Our fighters from (the) communist movement are now almost decimated, so we have to change strategy, not just on the operation plan and psy-ops. The best way is (to) inform the public of the truth. The truth hurts, but it is the truth," Magalong said.

Holy Week is all about the crucifxion of Christ. How about they save the politics for another day?